Cause and Effect

My Musings – Verses eight and nine are very well known.  Memorized by many.  It is these two verses that many say are at odds with James’ admonition that faith without works are dead.  Funny how we sometimes see and hear what we want to and gloss over the rest.  Verse ten makes Paul’s thoughts complete.  You see, Paul and James are not at odds.  James goes on to say that his faith is demonstrated by deeds.  Paul is essentially saying the same thing.  We are saved by faith (not by works), but a faith that does not cause us to do “good deeds” is a questionable faith in deed.  Said another way:  Salvation is not the result of good works, but our salvation should result in good works.  Faith is the cause, good deeds are the effect.

My Advice – Be a good workmanship, just make sure it stems from your salvation and is not an attempt to obtain salvation.

Author: thebrewisamusing

I was raised in a Christian family and my earliest childhood memories include regular Sunday school and Church attendance as a family. I was taught that our Judeo-Christian values were not just a part of our Sunday routine they should be part of our character and influence all aspects of our lives. I was also taught that as important as these values were they could not save us. We must also be “born again” by accepting Christ. View all posts by thebrewisamusing