What does the Bible say about the relationship between faith and works?

In the Reformed tradition, it is emphasized that while works do not contribute to salvation, they are the fruit of genuine faith. James 2:17 states, 'Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.' This indicates that true faith naturally produces good works. However, these works cannot earn salvation; they demonstrate the transformation and life of faith within a believer. In other words, we serve and do good works not to achieve righteousness before God, but because we have already received His grace and mercy.