Faith that works

The majority of the Old Testament describes the actions, or works, that make for a good and God-pleasing life. The laws of Moses and injunctions of the prophets highlight the absolute priority of helping the poor and seeking justice for the powerless. The only problem was that people were incapable of living that message.

Jesus arrives and does live the message - and some. He perfectly does the works of the Father. He also gives us the same ability to please God and live right. This ability is through faith in Jesus.

St Paul emphasises the faith aspect of gaining this ability to please the Father. However, St James reminds us that faith in Jesus must be expressed in lives that do the stuff that God has called us to do all along.

So St Paul says ‘Work without faith’ always falls short.

‘Faith without works’ is dead says St James.

Only ‘Faith that works’ changes the world...