Why Must We Still Do Good Works?
Minister: | Rev. Ronald Van Overloop |
Date: | 6/30/2019 AM |
Text: | Galatians 2; Lord's Day 32 |
Psalters: | 64, 143, 208, 291 |
- The question.
- The question arises because the Catechism has condemned all positions which make good works a condition to being saved.
- In the opposite ditch are various shades of Antinomianism which says that there is no necessity for good works at all.
- But if good works are not necessary for salvation, which is “merely of grace,” then what is the place of doing good works?
- The Heidelberg’s question indicates the conviction that Scripture demands that those saved in Jesus do good works.
- God’s law does show us our sin, but it also shows us how God wants us to express our gratitude for gracious salvation.
- The answer: Scripture is not indifferent to good works. The “must” is essential and absolutely necessary.
- Scripture teaches that the absence of good works indicates that they have no part in the kingdom of God.
- God gracious salvation (from regeneration to glorification) gives us a new life, so Paul can say that he lives (Gal. 2:20).
- The life which the believer lives is the rich life of fellowship with God. It has its source in God, for God alone has true life.
- We live because Christ lives; we so belong to Jesus that His death and resurrection is ours (Rom. 6:6).
- On other hand, we live “in the flesh” (our sinful human nature) struggling, fighting sin, repenting, watching and praying.
- As a result of this life we are dead to sin, so instead of being able only to sin, now we are able to do good (Rom. 6:13,17).
- And God continuously works in His children so they will and do His good pleasure (Phil. 2:12,13).
- When the Catechism teaches that good works are essential, it does not mean that good works merit.
- Why we do good works.
- First, we are commanded to do so. God requires that we give our all to Him all the time (cf. Canons III,IV-17; V-14).
- Second, we love wants to do what our Loved One wants; we delight to please our Father.
- Third, we are so grateful for the free salvation given to someone so undeserving.
- Fourth, we desire to glorify God (Matt. 5:16; John 15:8). Without holiness one cannot see God (Heb. 12:14).