And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free? Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.

John 8:32-36

First of all, these unbelieving Jews have forgotten their own history! They were in bondage in Egypt, Assyria, Babylon, Persia, and now Rome. But Jesus further defines the kind of bondage that these men are still under. Since they do not see the truth that is in Jesus Christ, they are slaves to a system of man’s will or works for salvation.

Though these men seem to be in charge and the leaders of the Jews in religious matters, their time is limited. Jesus’ kingdom is at hand and all those that do not see Him for Who He is will be cast out.

This same principle applies today. Anyone who believes that there is something that a person must do or say in order to gain eternal life has placed themselves under a bondage. Whether it be a single act or a continuance in righteousness, all works/will systems fall under the definition of the “law of sin and death.” If the standard is not met, then eternal separation from God is possible. This puts a heavy burden on anyone who tries to live this way.

But…

There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

Romans 8:1-2

A person that sees his salvation starts and ends in the work of Jesus Christ is free! A person in this condition doesn’t have to worry that Jesus will suddenly reject them if they mess up.

So, what is the purpose of doing good works?

First of all, God told us to. Secondly, we were born again to do good works (Ephesians 2:8-10). And lastly, we find peace and rest when we follow Christ.

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” – 

Matthew 11:28-30

The yoke of Christ is to love in pure thankfulness. No strings attached.