Good Works are Necessary

eDevotion

Encouragement for your daily walk with God 

Make no mistake about it, you are saved by God’s grace when you put your complete confidence in what Christ did for you on Calvary’s cross, period. Salvation is not a reward for any good deeds which we have done [Ephesian 2.5, 8-9]. Saved by grace, through Christ’s work, is central. That being said, please don’t think that your good deeds are unimportant or unnecessary. 

The Apostle Paul has clearly taught that those who’ve been saved by Jesus will do works  God intended for them to do. “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago” [Ephesians 2.10]. 

John Calvin put it this way, “We are saved by faith alone, but the faith that saves is never alone.” I don’t think it is improper to call into question the one who says he or she believes in Jesus but fails to demonstrate their belief by doing good deeds God planned for them to do [see James 2.14-26].

To his friend and associate, Titus, Paul said Christ cleansed us from the stain of sin and made us His own, to make us “totally committed to doing good deeds” [Titus 2.14].

Why are good deeds so important? Jesus said they “glorify your Father who is in heaven” [Matthew 5.16]. The author of Hebrews said it this way, “And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God” [Hebrews 13.16].

[Jesus] gave His life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us His very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds. Titus 2.14