Q&A Home > F > Faith and Works

Do we get to heaven by faith alone, (John 3:16, Romans 3:28, Acts 13:39, and Ephesians 2:8-9) or by both works and faith?

The Holy Bible clearly says "Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead" (James 2:17). St. James continues saying that faith alone is not enough; for even the demons believe "You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe; and tremble! But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?" (James 2:19-20)

Salvation is by the Grace of God alone. Our Lord died on the cross to save all humanity. That is why those who do not believe in this act on the cross will not be saved. So faith has to come first. In order for your faith to claim existence, it has to be manifested in your deeds.  A man is justified by faith but  righteousness must follow justification. You cannot be believing one thing and doing something that would contradict your belief. Faith is activated through our deeds.

Many verses in the Holy Bible show the importance of works "For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works" (Mt 16:27)."Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming in which all who are in the graves will hear His voice and come forth; those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of condemnation" (John 5:28).

Our Lord Jesus Christ showed us a glimpse of how judgment will be based on deeds. For He said, "Then the King will say to those on His right hand, "Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 'I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me" (Mt 25:34-36).