Reply To: Christian Character 2024/25 Discussion Board 1

[ambcovenant]

The statement “Good works that stem out of a relationship with Christ Jesus are witnesses for Jesus” is valid when we understand the role of good works in the life of a Christian. While it is true that we are not saved by good works, as Ephesians 2:8-9 clearly states, good works still play an important role. They do not save us, but they serve as a testimony to the world about the transforming power of Christ in our lives.

Salvation is Not by Works
Ephesians 2:8-9 tells us that we are saved by grace through faith, not by works: “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.” This verse makes it clear that salvation is a gift from God that cannot be earned through good deeds. We are saved solely through faith in Jesus Christ and His grace, not by anything we do.
Although good works cannot save us, they are a natural result of salvation. In Ephesians 2:10, the Bible says, “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” This means that after we are saved, God has a purpose for our lives, and part of that purpose is to do good works. These works are the evidence that we have been transformed by God’s grace and that we are living according to His will.

Good Works as a Witness to Others
In Matthew 5:16, Jesus tells us, “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” This verse highlights the idea that our good works should not be done for our own benefit or recognition, but to point others to God. When we live out our faith through acts of kindness, love, and service, others will see the difference Christ has made in our lives and be drawn to Him. Our good works become a powerful witness to the world, reflecting the light of Christ.

Faith and Works Go Together
James 2:14-26 teaches that faith without works is dead. This doesn’t mean that works are necessary for salvation, but it does show that genuine faith will always produce good works. Paul also emphasizes in Galatians 5:6, “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.” This means that our faith in Christ, when truly alive, will naturally lead to actions that demonstrate God’s love to others.

In conclusion, the statement that “Good works that stem out of a relationship with Christ Jesus are witnesses for Jesus” is valid. Good works are not the means by which we are saved, but they are the evidence of our salvation. When we have a genuine relationship with Christ, our lives will be transformed, and our good works will reflect His love and grace to the world. As Matthew 5:16 reminds us, our good works serve as a witness to others, drawing them to God and giving glory to Him.