Why is it important for Christians to understand the relationship between faith and works?
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Understanding the relationship between faith and works ensures that believers recognize the role of grace in both justification and sanctification.
The relationship between faith and works is crucial in Reformed theology, as it clarifies that while good works are the evidence of true faith, they do not contribute to our justification. In Galatians 3:3, Paul asks if Christians are so foolish to believe they can be made perfect by fleshly efforts after beginning in the Spirit. This emphasizes that our salvation, rooted in grace, extends into our sanctification, which is also empowered by the Holy Spirit. Works ought to flow from genuine faith, reflecting the transformation that occurs through the gospel. Thus, it is essential for Christians to understand that while works are important, they are the result of faith and not the means of salvation.
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