Acts is a transition period. From law to grace. From a Kingdom of believers to a Body of Believers.
I do not agree with this statement. God deals with man in different ways depending on his covenants but I do not believe that, at any time, mankind's works or efforts merited eternal life. It has ALWAYS been by faith going back to the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve committed the very first sin and doomed the entire human race to a sinful nature. God gave them clothes made from animal skins to "cover" them. Blood was shed for the first time and was symbolic of the Messiah to come who's blood would be shed for the redemption of all mankind from the penalty of their sins. The "wages" of sin is death - even before the covenant of grace. The sacrifices on the altars were all a temporary covering until Christ's death and resurrection paid the penalty in full.
"Works" in the OT times were how God related to mankind - but they were never a substitute for the blood that makes an atonement for the soul (Lev.17:11). God's laws are now written in our hearts by the Holy Spirit when we accept the gift of eternal life through faith in Christ. We live by grace and we relate to God through grace.
Nothing against SVITW...I just thought I needed to clarify where I stand on that subject.