Few (if any) would deny that an essential part of the Christian religion is the performing of good works.
But why? What do good works accomplish (especially since we are saved by grace alone)?
Join us for mid-week Bible study during the month of August as Pastor McShaffrey teaches on this subject.
The schedule and outlines are available below:
08/10 – Their Identity
What Good Works Are
– God’s Will (Rom. 12:2, Heb. 13:21)
– God’s Revelation (Micah 6:8)
– God’s Words (Deut. 5:1)
What Good Works Are Not
– Men’s Commands (Matt. 15:9)
– Men’s Traditions (1 Peter 1:18)
– Insincere Service (Isaiah 29:13)
– Ignorant Zeal (Romans 10:2)
– Good Intentions (1 Sam. 15:21-23)
08/17 – Their Nature
Good works do not come from our natural ability (Genesis 6:5, John 15:4-52),
But wholly from the indwelling Spirit of Christ (Ezekiel 36:26-27, Philippians 2:13).
Nevertheless, we are not to be negligent or passive (Philippians 2:12, Hebrews 6:11),
But diligent to stir up the grace of God that is in us (2 Peter 1:5-11, 2 Timothy 1:6).
08/24 – Their Purpose
– Proves the genuineness of faith (James 2:18,22)
– Manifests thankfulness (Psalm 116:12, 1 Pet. 2:9)
– Strengthens assurance (1 John 2:3; 2 Pet. 1:5-10)
– Edifies the brethren (2 Cor. 9:1-2, Matt. 5:16)
– Adorns our profession (Titus 2:1-10)
– Stops the mouths of adversaries (1 Pet. 2:15)
– Glorifies God (1 Peter 2:12, Phil. 1:9-11)
– Fulfills our chief end (Eph. 2:10)
– Leads to eternal life (Romans 6:22)
08/31 – Their Reward
Our good works are pleasing to God, but not in a meritorious manner (Luke 17:10).
Further, because our good works are mixed with such imperfection, they can scarcely be called good (Isaiah 64:6).
Nevertheless, God does see our good works “in Christ” and is most pleased to accept them (Eph. 1:6, 1 Peter 2:5).
Therefore, we should not mute scripture, but allow it to motivate us (Hebrews 11:6, Luke 19:17, 2 Cor. 9:6).