The Place of Works: What Kind of Works?

by David Chadwick

There is a place for good works in the life of a Christ follower. But only if it is laid on the foundation of grace. Grace is the bedrock of our salvation. However, works must follow in the life of a Christian. But what kind of works should we do?

Take a moment and look at Matthew 25:31-45, the parable of the sheep and the goats. It is an end times parable that suggests some different acts of kindness that Jesus wants us to be about as we await his return.

First, notice that these acts that are done to “the least of these my brethren” are also done to Jesus (Matthew 25:40). This seems to imply that Jesus desires for us to be especially kind to our fellow Christians who may be hurting.

Galatians 6:10 appears to suggest the same principle. It says, “So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” Our good works aren’t just acts of kindness, they are opportunities to display the gospel.

As you see, while doing good to everyone is important, Christians are adjured to prioritize and show particular care for fellow Christians within “the household of faith.” Perhaps this reflects Jesus’s words in John 13:34 that the world will know that Christians truly belong to him by the way we love one another. If we are not walking in unity, the lost world remains confused by what they see.

More specifically, Matthew 25 lays out some more specific ways for Christians to show good works: feed the hungry, give water to the thirsty, clothe the naked, and visit the prisoners in prison. If you are looking for simple ideas, here is a great place to start.

Someone once said that the proof is in the pudding. That’s what Jesus is saying here. The proof that you really love him and really are one of his sheep comes by doing these good works. The proof that you are a goat comes by NOT doing these things. Your good works will follow your faith. They must if you truly love Jesus!