Saved by Works?

Saved by works?

Saved by Works

There are at least four types of “works” noted in the Bible:  “Works” of the Flesh (Gal. 5:19-21); Works of Merit (Titus 3:5); “Works” of the Law of Moses (Rom. 3:20); and “Works” of Righteousness (i.e., works resulting from obedient faith – Gal. 5:6).

It should be obvious that we are not saved by “works of the flesh” (Gal. 5:19-21).  It is also true that we are not saved by “meritorious works” (Titus 3:5) – as if we could earn our way into heaven.  Additionally, we are not saved by the “works of the Law” (Gal. 2:16), for then salvation would come through perfect keeping of the Law (v. 21).  However, we cannot be saved apart from “works of righteousness.”  James puts it this way: “…Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works” (v. 18). “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also” (v. 26).  So, there’s your answer, friends.