Are We Saved by Faith or Works — Meaning Explained

Paul is definitive: 'For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast' (Ephesians 2:8-9). Romans 3:28 confirms, 'A man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.' But Paul immediately adds, 'For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works' (Ephesians 2:10). James appears to contradict Paul: 'Faith without works is dead' (James 2:26) and 'By works a man is justified, and not by faith only' (James 2:24). However, James and Paul address different questions. Paul answers: How is a person saved? (By faith.) James answers: How do you know faith is real? (By its fruits.) They complement each other perfectly. Abraham believed God (justified by faith — Romans 4:3), and then offered Isaac (demonstrating faith — James 2:21). Jesus taught, 'By their fruits ye shall know them' (Matthew 7:20). Titus 3:5 settles it: 'Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us.' Genuine saving faith inevitably transforms behavior.