In our NHYG Bible class on Sunday, we studied Romans chapter three and discussed the way faith works with works. (See what I did there?) Then, during worship, Matthew mentioned this same thought. It was amazing to watch a few of our teens make eye contact with me and smile because what we discussed in Bible class was almost word for word what Matthew was preaching about for a brief minute. I wish you all could have seen their faces. Scarlet Taylor told me later that day that both of us teaching the same thing and coming to the same conclusions (which was not planned by any means) solidifies how true it is. Since then, the ideas of faith and works have been on my mind for a few days now, so let’s talk about it a little more.
For many years, Christians have debated the connection between faith and works and our salvation. Some have thought faith and works are on two extremes, leading people to swing from one side to the other rather than seeking a balanced understanding. The question is, are we saved by works or by faith?
The challenge is not choosing one extreme over the other but harmonizing these truths in a way that reflects the whole counsel of God. The Bible teaches that salvation is a gift from God, yet He calls mankind to respond in faith. Works do not save us, but they are the evidence of a living faith (James 2:26).
We are both dependent on God’s grace and responsible for our actions. We are not robots forced into salvation, nor are we self-sufficient beings capable of earning it. Instead, God offers salvation freely, but He expects us to accept it through faith and obedience.
When it comes to matters of salvation, balance is key. Extremes distort the beauty and simplicity of the gospel and lead people away from the truth. When I study the Bible with people, I try to keep it as simple as possible. I do this not because I think people are dumb but because I believe God makes it simple and would never ask us to do or understand something so complicated that it discourages people from obeying. Rather than swinging between faith and works, Christians should embrace the biblical harmony found in both.
Understanding this balance requires study, prayer, and a humble heart willing to seek God’s truth. Have you considered where you stand in this discussion? Are you leaning toward one extreme or the other? The challenge is to avoid the pitfalls of extremism and embrace the balance of God’s part and your part in your salvation.
In Christ alone,
Alex Mills