Pavement of Gold Can’t Buy Salvation
© 2021 by Tom Boynton (editing by Kathy Boynton)
In the 16th century, there was a poetic couplet which became famous. It said:
“When a coin in the coffer rings, a soul from Purgatory springs.”
It is attributed to a man named Johann Tetzel. He was seeking to raise money for what some considered to be God’s work. In reality, it was the work of a large and powerful religious organization.
This statement implies that God’s forgiveness can be purchased with money, perhaps in the form of gold coins. These contributions were often collected in a receptacle called a coffer or strongbox. The coins would make a “ringing” sound as they struck the bottom of that receptacle.
The idea that money can buy God’s forgiveness is contrary to Scripture. The apostle Peter emphatically declares the following repudiation of such an idea. Speaking to saved people he said:
“Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:”– (1 Peter 1:18-19)
In this passage, we find that the value of gold, though esteemed by men, is totally inadequate to purchase the salvation of a soul. In fact, when Scripture describes the heavenly Jerusalem, it appears that gold has only enough value to be used as pavement for that illustrious city.
“And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.” (Revelation 21:21)
Offering good works, or even fine gold, is like offering God a chunk of street pavement to save you. This is a terrible affront to God who offered the precious blood of God, His only begotten Son. The blood of Christ is the only payment capable of reconciling wicked man to the infinite holiness of God. Jesus, Himself, declared,
“… I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6)
God condemns any attempt to buy spiritual blessings with money. Once a magician named Simon tried to offer money to the apostle Peter. He wanted Peter to give him power from the Holy Spirit to improve his magical tricks. Peter responded with the following powerful rebuke.
“… Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.” (Acts 8:20)
Dear reader: Beware that you are not trying to buy God’s favor with street pavement. Such attempts invite eternal condemnation from God Himself.
Have you called out to God with the plea,
“… God be merciful to me a sinner.” ? (Luke 18:13)
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