As Christians, we often encounter a question regarding the role of faith and works in our spiritual journey. Are we saved by faith alone, or do our works play a role in our salvation? The seeming tension between these two has been the subject of much debate within Christianity.
The Apostle Paul, in his letters, consistently underlines the idea that we are justified by faith alone (Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 3:28). Salvation is depicted as a gift from God, something we cannot earn through good deeds.
On the other hand, the epistle of James declares, “faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (James 2:17, ESV). It suggests that our actions or works give evidence of the authenticity of our faith.
At first glance, these statements might seem contradictory. However, a closer look reveals a profound harmony between the two ideas.
Faith, according to scripture, is itself a gift from God, something we cannot generate on our own. This truth is powerfully expressed by Paul in Ephesians 2:8, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God” (ESV).
When this God-given faith takes root in our hearts, it results in a transformation. This transformation doesn’t just remain a private, inner experience; it inevitably spills over into our actions. In other words, true faith manifests itself in good works.
Therefore, while good works do not contribute to our salvation, they are the evidence of our salvation. As believers, saved by grace through faith, our lives bear the marks of that transformation in the form of good works. They are the validation of our faith, not the basis of our salvation. They are the natural outflow of a heart changed by God.
Understanding this, we see there is no contradiction between faith and works. They are two sides of the same coin, both resulting from God’s grace. Faith and works coexist harmoniously, each illuminating the other, both testifying to the transformative work of God in the believer’s life.
