Faith And Works

Fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power. 2 Thessalonians 1:11.

There is always debate about the doctrines of faith and works—and which should come first. Which carries the most weight with God? Jesus Christ did not offer us a choice of faith or works. The Scripture teaches that works without faith have no meaning to God, because we cannot work our way to Heaven. Those who seek to testify of what they think is their goodness often talk about paying their taxes on time, never defrauding anyone, being faithful to their spouse, and giving to charity. But God is clear that our righteousness is like a filthy rag. There is nothing we can do to measure up to God’s standard. Once we are saved, however, God expects us not to be hearers of the Word only but doers as well. Works, when we are in Christ, are an extension of Christ’s ministry. In fact, works are not ends in themselves, but they demonstrate God’s love toward others so that they will know God loves them, and so that they will desire to learn about God’s provision for every need. The Bible says a man in a ditch is not helped if we pass by him, wish him well, and tell him of God’s love (Luke 10:25–37). No, God’s love is demonstrated by attending to the man’s physical needs and helping him out of the ditch.
Graham, Billy. Truth for Each Day : A 365-Day Devotional, Thomas Nelson Incorporated, 2023. ProQuest Ebook Central, http://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/liberty/detail.action?docID=30516542.
Created from liberty on 2025-06-10 14:48:28.