Topical Encyclopedia The concept of good works, as understood within the Christian tradition, is deeply rooted in the belief that such works are not merely human efforts but are divinely inspired and empowered by God Himself. This understanding is supported by numerous passages in Scripture, which emphasize that good works are a manifestation of God's grace and presence in the believer's life.Biblical Foundation The Bible clearly teaches that good works are a result of God's work within us. In Ephesians 2:10 , the Apostle Paul writes, "For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life." This verse highlights that believers are crafted by God for the purpose of performing good works, which He has already ordained. It underscores the idea that these works are not of human origin but are part of God's divine plan. Philippians 2:13 further elaborates on this concept: "For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose." Here, Paul emphasizes that both the desire and the ability to perform good works are instilled by God. This passage reassures believers that their efforts in doing good are not solely dependent on their strength but are empowered by God's active presence within them. The Role of Faith Good works are intrinsically linked to faith. James 2:17 states, "So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead." This verse indicates that genuine faith naturally produces good works. The relationship between faith and works is not one of cause and effect but rather one of evidence; true faith is evidenced by the works it produces. Thus, good works are a visible expression of an inward faith, wrought by God. The Fruit of the Spirit The Apostle Paul, in Galatians 5:22-23 , describes the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These attributes are considered good works that are produced in the life of a believer through the Holy Spirit. The presence of these qualities is a testament to the transformative work of God within an individual, leading to actions that reflect His character. The Purpose of Good Works Good works serve multiple purposes in the life of a believer and the broader community. They are a means of glorifying God, as Jesus taught in Matthew 5:16 : "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Good works are a testimony to God's goodness and serve as a witness to others, drawing them towards the truth of the Gospel. Additionally, good works are a means of serving others and fulfilling the commandment to love one's neighbor. In Matthew 25:40 , Jesus says, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me." This passage underscores the importance of good works as acts of service and compassion, reflecting the love of Christ to those in need. Conclusion The doctrine of good works, as wrought by God in us, is a profound aspect of Christian theology. It emphasizes the divine origin and empowerment of good works, the integral relationship between faith and action, and the ultimate purpose of glorifying God and serving others. Through the Holy Spirit, believers are equipped and motivated to perform good works, fulfilling God's will and advancing His kingdom on earth. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 26:12LORD, you will ordain peace for us: for you also have worked all our works in us. Torrey's Topical Textbook Philippians 2:13 Greek 4102. pistis -- faith, faithfulness ... renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what (2307) of God is, that which is good and acceptable ... "Faith works, and is ... Right faith is a thing wrought in us ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4102.htm - 18k Library Good Works. The Work of God in Our Work. "The Heritage of the Heathen" Application of Sanctification. The Boasted Merit of Works Subversive Both of the Glory of God, in ... How Easy Our Saviour Has Made the Increase of Love. How Holy Love Returning into the Soul, Brings Back to Life all the ... On Patience The Apple Trees To Nanna, Daughter of Benincasa a Little Maid, Her Niece, in ... Resources Is it really possible for Christians to do greater works than Jesus? | GotQuestions.orgIs salvation by faith alone, or by faith plus works? | GotQuestions.org What are the works of the law (Romans 3:20; Galatians 2:16)? | GotQuestions.org Works: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Good Works are by Jesus Christ to the Glory and Praise of God Good Works in the Judgment, Will be an Evidence of Faith Good Works: Called: Fruits Meet for Repentance Good Works: Called: Fruits of Righteousness Good Works: Called: Good Fruits Good Works: Called: Works and Labours of Love Good Works: Christ, an Example of Good Works: Heavenly Wisdom is Full of Good Works: Holy Women should Manifest Good Works: Justification Unattainable By Good Works: Ministers should a Blessing Attends Good Works: Ministers should be Patterns of Good Works: Ministers should Designed to Lead Others to Glorify God Good Works: Ministers should Exhort To Good Works: Ministers should God is Glorified By Good Works: Ministers should Illustrated Good Works: Ministers should The Wicked Reprobate To Good Works: Saints are Full of Good Works: Saints are Zealous of Good Works: Saints: Bring to the Light Their Good Works: Saints: Created in Christ To Good Works: Saints: Exhorted to Put On Good Works: Saints: Followed Into Rest by Their Good Works: Saints: should Abound to All Good Works: Saints: should Avoid Ostentation In Good Works: Saints: should be Careful to Maintain Good Works: Saints: should be Established In Good Works: Saints: should be Fruitful In Good Works: Saints: should be Furnished to All Good Works: Saints: should be Perfect In Good Works: Saints: should be Prepared to All Good Works: Saints: should be Ready to All Good Works: Saints: should be Rich In Good Works: Saints: should Manifest, With Meekness Good Works: Saints: should Provoke Each Other Good Works: Salvation Unattainable By Good Works: Shall be Brought Into the Judgment Good Works: The Scripture Designed to Lead Us To Good Works: They Alone, Who Abide in Christ Can Perform Good Works: To be Performed in Christ's Name Good Works: Wrought by God in Us Works: Good in the Judgment, Will be an Evidence of Faith Works: Good of the Righteous, are Manifest Works: Good: A Blessing Attends Works: Good: Designed to Lead Others to Glorify God Works: Good: God is Glorified By Works: Good: Holy Women should Manifest Works: Good: Jesus an Example of Works: Good: Servants should be Patterns of Works: Good: Servants should Exhort To Works: Good: The Barren Fig Tree Works: Good: The Laborer's in the Vineyard Works: Good: Will be Brought Into Judgment Works: Insufficiency of, for Salvation Works: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Related Terms |
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