👉🏾👉🏾👉🏾 On #Faith and #Works
The Sacred Bond of Faith and Works
In the golden words of our Apostle James: "Faith without works is dead" (James 2:20). This is a profound testament to the Orthodox belief: faith, although essential, is but one side of the coin, the other being righteous deeds. Just as the body yearns for the soul to be complete, faith seeks works to find its true meaning.
God’s Revelation and the Moral Imperative
God's revelation to mankind has always been a beacon of hope and guidance. When humanity was submerged in ignorance, it was the innate moral compass, bestowed upon us by the Divine, which signaled the presence of a higher reality. As the Apostle Paul remarks, even those unfamiliar with the law of God demonstrate its truths in their actions (Romans 2:14-15). This moral foundation acts as a testament to God’s omnipresence, guiding each soul towards righteousness.
A Misunderstanding Corrected
There exists a prevalent misconception: "Believe, and salvation is yours." While faith is crucial, devoid of virtuous actions, it resembles a barren tree. This is the very sentiment Saint James conveys when he challenges the hollow proclamation of faith without deeds. Furthermore, echoing the insights of St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, a Christian life absent of virtuous conduct is as foundationless as a building suspended in air.
The Lord’s Call for Perfect Works
Our Savior, in His boundless wisdom, presents Himself as the model of humility and love, beckoning us: “Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart” (Matthew 11:29). His teachings repeatedly emphasize the amalgamation of faith and action. In His parables and sermons, Christ elucidates that belief is actualized through charity, love, and service.
Being the Salt of the Earth
As Christ's followers, we are reminded of our distinctive role in the world: “You are the salt of the earth” (Matthew 5:13). Our faith, if true and unwavering, must infuse the world with virtue and righteousness. It is not enough to resist temptation; we must actively pursue goodness, embodying the Gospel in every deed.
Demons Believe, But Do Not Act
A belief without righteousness is empty, and this truth is exemplified when demons recognize Christ's divinity. As it is written, even the unclean spirits knew Him and trembled before His majesty (Mark 3:11; Mark 5:5-8). Yet, this recognition did not translate to righteous deeds or salvation. Thus, mere belief, even if rooted in profound truths, is insufficient for salvation.
The Present World and Our Moral Duty
Our world today, marred by conflict and division, yearns for the light of Christ’s teachings. Faith and works, in harmonious unison, can offer solace and healing. As the Psalmist aptly declares, “Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14).
In conclusion, beloved in Christ, while faith plants the seed of salvation, it is through our works that this seed sprouts and blossoms. Let us, therefore, ardently strive to ensure that our faith is not merely a proclamation but a living testament reflected in our every deed.
© John's Repentance
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