The “works” most people do are not the ones that actually matter when it comes to evidence. (Rom 2:1-7) We can all do good things but do all those good things prove we have faith?
Scripture tells us that works are the evidence of faith. This is supported strongly by Jesus, Paul, James, and others. However, I believe we misunderstand good works. Typically, our boasting of good works consists of church attendance, perfect doctrine, helping those in need, tithing, leading ministry, encouraging others, selflessness, etc. (2 Cor 11:16-33, Rom 3:27, Matt 7:21-23)
The problem with viewing works this way is that people without faith do these “works” and can do them well. So, if these are the foundation of the evidence of faith, it makes our evidence unreliable. We have gotten good at doing “works” well, but they count for nothing. (Gal 5:6,13) We must then make the distinction between “works” and “good works.”
True “good works” are done by God through us. (Eph 2:8-10) If we alone attempt to produce the works, the works are empty. We are unable to do “good works” on our own. (Phil 2:12,13.) “Good works” are only a result of our faith in Jesus because of the Gospel. Faith in Jesus drives us to an attitude, and that attitude is the foundation and starting point for the work God plans to do in and through our lives. (Phil 1:6) The attitude of faith is found in Matthew 5:3-12.
3 Blessed are the poor in spirit, – Those who recognize they need God’s help
4 Blessed are those who mourn, – Those who empathize with the hurting
5 Blessed are the meek, – Those humble. Not arrogantly forceful but strength under control
6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, – Those having a desire to see God’s character in their own lives
7 Blessed are the merciful, – Those who do not expect too much from others, compassionate and choosing to think the best of others whenever possible.
8 Blessed are the pure in heart, – Undivided devotion to God, not self
9 Blessed are the peacemakers, – Those who seek reconciliation, peace, and unity, overcoming evil with good
10 Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake – Those who suffer for their faith.
Each one of these attitudes of faith offers us a glimpse at how God does good work through us. When we live out these truths, only then does the evidence of our faith show God’s hand and his glory. Apart from this, our faith only glorifies ourselves.
James (2:14-26)
Nos & Rehtaf, Dnabsuh 