| http://www.coptic.net/lessons/FaithAndWorks.txt > The absence of good works means that faith is dead and fruitless. Therefore, good works are the fruits of faith and the evidence of its presence, and with such, faith is perfected. Good works, however, are not from our volition only. We need the support of God's grace and the work of the Holy Spirit within us, for Jesus said "Without me ye can do nothing." (John 15:5) From United Methodist Doctrine: > Faith is necessary to salvation unconditionally. Good works are necessary only conditionally, that is if there is time and opportunity. The thief on the cross in Luke 23:39-43 is Wesley's example of this. ... However, for the vast majority of human beings good works are necessary for continuance in faith because those persons have both the time and opportunity for them. > ... > United Methodist doctrine thus understands true, saving faith to be the kind that, give time and opportunity, will result in good works. Any supposed faith that does not in fact lead to such behaviors is not genuine, saving faith. Not all variations of Christianity are in agreement on faith and faith alone. |
"Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many *wonderful works*?"
"And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity."
Jesus is talking here about people that look to their good deeds as evidence of their salvation. When they meet Jesus they tell him all the great things they have done, but completely forget about the key to salvation which is faith alone.
Christian sects are not in agreement of this because some Christian sects do not offer a saving gospel. Catholicism does not offer a saving gospel, for example.
We'd all do good to focus on the Bible as the final authority, and not the teaching and writing of men.