What Does the Bible Say About Faith and Works? | The Well Podcast S4E03

In this episode of The Well Podcast, Pastor Phil Hopper and host Les Norman discuss the relationship between faith and works.

The gospel is that we’re saved by grace through faith alone. Salvation is a gift from Jesus! Heaven is not a reward given for being good, and works are not what gets us into heaven. Rather, saving faith produces works, which are acts of obedience to honor God.

In Romans, Paul outlines the three stages of salvation:

Justification: We are justified before God.

Sanctification: The process of being conformed to the image of God.

Glorification: We are forever with God in His presence.

Both justification and glorification happen in a moment, but sanctification is a process. It requires the work of the Holy Spirit in your life. The goal of sanctification is to become more like Christ. True sanctification happens when you’re willing to bear the cross of suffering, sadness, and pain. To become more like Christ, you must practice humility.

Pastor Phil compares Paul and James’ summaries of faith and works and teaches us that faith is how you receive the promises and power of God. Faith in motion and obedience in action is working out your salvation.

Questions Explored:

What does it mean to work out your salvation?

What are the three stages of salvation?

What is a drink offering?