(by Pastor Jean)

We are not saved by our good works but for good works, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works” (Eph 2:10; NKJV) and, “You are saved by grace through faith” (Eph 2:10; CSB), “not from works so that no one can boast” (Eph 2:9; CSB). When it comes to good works Jesus is our prime example; Acts 10:38 tells us that He spent each day simply “doing good.” What did Jesus tell others about doing good works? In the sermon on the mount Jesus said, “Let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your Heavenly Father” (Matt 5:16; NLT). Later on, in the gospel of Matthew, Jesus told His disciples that if they did anything kind even if it was as simple as giving a glass of water, they would be rewarded. James addresses the issue of good works in his epistle, saying that if our faith does not have corresponding good works then it is dead faith (James 2:14-17, 26). He says that genuine faith, “produces good works” (James 2:14; AMP). Paul encouraged the Galatians not to grow tired of doing good (Gal 6:9) and he also told Titus to be “zealous for good works” (Titus 2:14; ESV) and then in Titus 3:14 he says that people should devote themselves to good works. Finally, let’s heed the admonition in 1 Cor 16:14 to, “let everything you do be done in love” (ESV). Always remember that whenever you do something for “one of the least of these” you are doing it for Jesus (Matt 25: 35-45).