Relationship Between Faith and Works for SS 1

Faith and Works

Performance Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. explain the meaning of faith and works;
2. discuss faith as a requirement for salvation;
3. explain the role of faith in the life of a Christian.

Memory Verse

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1 KJV)

Bible Reading

The principal Bible passages supporting this lesson are:

1. Galatians 1:14
2. Ephesians 2:8-9
3. Hebrews 11:1-3, 6
4. James 2:14-26

Meaning of Faith and Works

In Christian Religious Studies, the terms “faith” and “works” are central to understanding salvation and the Christian life. They describe two distinct but interconnected aspects of a believer’s relationship with God.

Meaning of Faith

Faith is a deep trust and belief in God and His promises, even when those promises are not yet seen or fully understood. It is a conviction about the reality of things that are not visible to the human eye.

Hebrews 11:1 states, “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” This verse highlights that faith gives assurance and certainty to what a person hopes for and believes, even if it is not physically present. It is a spiritual understanding and acceptance of God’s truth.

For example, a person with faith believes that God created the heavens and the earth, as stated in Hebrews 11:3, even though they did not witness the creation event. This belief is not based on scientific observation alone, but on trust in God’s word.

Meaning of Works

Works, in a Christian context, refer to actions, deeds, or efforts performed by a person. These can include acts of obedience to God’s commandments, religious rituals, charitable deeds, or any other human effort.

Works are the outward expressions of a person’s beliefs or intentions. They are the things people do, whether good or bad, in their daily lives or in their religious practice.

For instance, attending church, giving to the poor, praying, fasting, or following religious laws are all examples of works. These actions can be motivated by various factors, including genuine faith, a desire for recognition, or an attempt to earn favour.

Faith as a Requirement for Salvation

The Bible teaches that faith is a fundamental requirement for salvation. Salvation, which is deliverance from sin and its consequences, is a gift from God received through faith, not through human works.

Ephesians 2:8-9 clearly states this principle: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” This passage emphasises that salvation is a result of God’s undeserved favour (grace) and is received by believing in Jesus Christ. It is not something a person can earn through their own good deeds or efforts.

The Apostle Paul, in Galatians 1:14, speaks of his former zeal for the traditions of his fathers. This zeal represents a reliance on works of the law and human effort for righteousness. However, the New Testament teaches that such reliance on works cannot save. Instead, salvation comes through faith in Christ, who fulfilled the law.

Hebrews 11:6 further reinforces the necessity of faith, stating, “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” This means that approaching God and receiving His favour requires a foundational belief in His existence and His character as a rewarder of those who seek Him sincerely.

While salvation is by faith, the book of James clarifies the relationship between faith and works. James 2:14-26 explains that true faith is not a mere intellectual assent but a living faith that produces good works. James asks, “What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?” He argues that faith without works is dead.

This means that while works do not earn salvation, they are the natural evidence of genuine saving faith. A person who truly believes in Christ will demonstrate that faith through a changed life and actions that reflect God’s will. For example, Abraham’s faith was shown when he offered Isaac on the altar (James 2:21), and Rahab’s faith was evident when she hid the spies (James 2:25).

The Role of Faith in the Life of a Christian

Faith plays a vital and continuous role in the daily life of a Christian, extending beyond the initial act of salvation. It is the foundation upon which a believer lives, grows, and interacts with God and the world.

1. Guidance and Direction: Faith helps Christians to trust God’s plan and guidance for their lives. Instead of relying solely on their own understanding, believers use faith to seek God’s will and follow His leading, even when the path is unclear.
2. Assurance and Hope: Faith provides assurance of God’s presence and promises. It gives Christians hope for the future, including eternal life and the fulfilment of God’s purposes, even amidst difficulties and uncertainties in the present world.
3. Enabling Prayer: Through faith, Christians believe that God hears and answers prayers. This encourages them to approach God confidently in prayer, presenting their needs, praises, and requests, trusting that He will act according to His will.
4. Overcoming Challenges: Faith empowers Christians to face and overcome trials, temptations, and adversities. By believing in God’s power and faithfulness, they can endure hardships, knowing that God is with them and will help them through.
5. Promoting Obedience: Genuine faith leads to obedience to God’s commands. When a Christian truly believes in God’s goodness and wisdom, they are motivated to live according to His word, not out of obligation to earn salvation, but out of love and gratitude for what He has done.
6. Spiritual Growth: Faith is essential for spiritual growth. As Christians exercise their faith, they learn more about God, develop a deeper relationship with Him, and become more like Christ in character and conduct.
7. Witnessing to Others: A Christian’s faith, demonstrated through their life and actions, serves as a powerful witness to others. When people observe a believer living with hope, peace, and integrity, it can draw them to inquire about the source of that faith.