Apologetic
Introduction
Basic arguments: according to the text book, salvation is only available through the grace of God but the cults opine that it is through our works (Gary, 2004).
The opposing viewpoint, that our works provide salvation cannot be refuted.
Cult’s viewpoint
Some verses of the Bible, teach that salvation is not by grace but by our works. Some of those verse include:
James 2:24 (Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith alone).
Matthew 7:21( Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my father which is in heaven).
2 Peter 1: 10 (Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall)
Ephesians 2:10 (For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath ordained before that we should walk in them)
Philippians 2:12-13 (Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worked in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure)
The viewpoint of the cults greatly contrasts with that of the Bible as put clearly in the verses of the Holy Book:
Acts 15:11 (We believe that we are saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus)
2 Timothy 1:9 (God saves us, not in virtue of our works, but in virtue of the atoning work of Jesus Christ on behalf of the sinner)
Romans 10:10 (For with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation)
Ephesians 2:8-9 (For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Not of works, lest any man should boast)
Reference
Gary, Z. (2004). Verses Teaching Salvation by Works? Retrieved June 29th, 2011, from Darkness to Light Home Page: http://www.dtl.org/salvation/article/verses_works.htm