The rules aren't the point. They are important instructions on how to treat each other in this world. If we want to do right by others and ourselves, these really aren't options. That's why God didn't make them the 'ten suggestions'. He wanted to illustrate the futility of doing this alone. Although we can't measure up to perfection, we do have the opportunity to accept His sacrifice.
Remember, since it's a gift, being 'Saved' is not an accomplishment or point of pride. It doesn't make anyone 'better' than anyone else.
If you meet someone who is 'holier than thou', they are missing the point completely.
a gift? no thanks, return to sendera loving god would not send anyone to hella gift? sign me up!
The rules are not the relationship. This is the mistake that many religions make when they add that you must follow certain rules and perform certain actions to obtain salvation. Whether these are rituals or service, this tries to negate the completeness of Jesus' sacrifice. You cannot, in any way, earn your passage to Heaven. If you could, His death would not have been necessary. Salvation through Jesus is a gift of God, from God, freely given. You must accept it in order to possess it, but it is a gift.
This categorically eliminates anyone being 'holier than thou'. No one can look down on you with lofty moral superiority when we are all on the same level playing field. Nor should you look down on anyone else. In a world full of hierarchy, it is a very humbling realization.
Obviously, you will feel like 'doing something for God'. When you do, remember that you are not doing it to suck up, or to try for extra 'points'. You should be responding out of an abundance of gratitude for what has already been done for you.