Faith or Works? What Scripture says that we get wrong
The truth about the Holy Spirit, and what our flesh misunderstands.
The question of whether salvation comes through faith works, or both has been a central theological discussion for centuries. To fully understand this, we need to explore what the New Testament teaches, particularly through the writings of Paul and James.
The Old Jewish Tradition: A Works-Based System
Before Jesus’ coming, Jewish tradition was deeply rooted in a works-based system. The Law of Moses outlined strict commandments, rituals, and sacrifices that people followed to maintain righteousness before God. This system emphasized external adherence to the law, and righteousness was often viewed as something earned through actions.
Paul’s Teachings: Salvation by Faith Alone
When Jesus came, He fulfilled the Old Law and introduced a new covenant based on faith. Paul, in his letters, especially in Romans and Galatians, makes it clear that salvation is through faith alone in Jesus Christ, not by works.
“For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.” (Romans 3:28)
Paul’s argument was directed against those who insisted that believers must still adhere to the Jewish laws (such as circumcision) to be saved. He clarified that righteousness comes through faith in Jesus, not by obeying the old Mosaic Law.
James’ Teaching: Faith That Produces Works
Some, however, misinterpret Paul’s teachings to mean that actions don’t matter at all. This is where James’ writings come in.
James 2:26 states: “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.”
At first glance, this may seem contradictory to Paul, but in reality, James is reinforcing the true nature of faith. He is not saying that works save a person but that genuine faith naturally produces works. If someone claims to have faith but their life shows no evidence of transformation—no love, no service, no fruit of the Spirit—then their faith is not real.
The Difference Between Jewish Works and New Testament Works
It is crucial to distinguish between the works of the Mosaic Law and the works James refers to. The Jewish tradition requires works to maintain righteousness, but James describes works as the outpouring of a transformed heart. When someone is saved, the Holy Spirit changes them, and the natural response is love, service, and sacrifice for others—because that is the very nature of Jesus.
Paul and James are not contradicting each other. Rather, they are addressing different issues:
• Paul fights against legalism—the idea that works of the law are required for salvation.
• James fights against dead faith—the idea that someone can claim faith without it changing their life.
The True Relationship Between Faith and Works
The key truth is that salvation is by faith alone, but true faith does not remain alone. When the Holy Spirit transforms a person, their actions will reflect their new identity in Christ. Works do not save, but they are the evidence of a genuine relationship with God.
Jesus Himself demonstrated this by living a life of service, sacrifice, and love. Those who follow Him are called to do the same, not as a requirement for salvation, but as a response to the grace they have received.
In summary:
• Salvation comes by faith in Jesus Christ alone.
• The old system of works-based righteousness is no longer needed.
• Genuine faith results in a life of love, service, and good works.
Faith and works are not opposing forces but rather two sides of the same coin. Faith brings salvation, and works are the natural outcome of a transformed heart in Christ.