The Purpose and Fruit of Good Works (Chapter 16, Paragraph 2)

“These good works, done in obedience to God's commandments…”

We are not saved by good works, but we are saved unto good works (Eph. 2:10). They are not self-willed acts of morality but are done in obedience to God’s revealed will. True good works flow from faith and are marked by conformity to God's commands. As Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Obedience to God is a fruit of love and an outworking of regeneration.

“…are the fruits and evidences of a true and lively faith…”

James 2:17 reminds us that “faith without works is dead.” Good works do not create faith, but they demonstrate it. A person who claims to believe but lives without fruit contradicts their profession. True faith is never alone—it is accompanied by a changed life. Good works are the visible proof that saving faith has taken root.

“…and by them believers manifest their thankfulness…”

This is the heart of Christian service: gratitude. Believers obey not to earn forgiveness, but to thank the One who has freely given it. Romans 12:1 urges us to present our bodies as a living sacrifice—not to gain justification, but as a spiritual act of worship in response to God's mercy.

“…strengthen their assurance…”

A life of obedience strengthens a believer’s confidence. While assurance is rooted in Christ, it is confirmed in us as we see His sanctifying work unfolding in our lives (2 Pet. 1:10). The believer who walks in good works is reminded of God's power within, confirming that they belong to Him.

“…edify their brethren…”

Good works also build up the church. When we serve others, exercise spiritual gifts, care for the weak, and speak the truth in love, we strengthen the body of Christ (Eph. 4:11–16). Our good works bless fellow believers, encourage the fainthearted, and provide examples to follow.

“…adorn the profession of the gospel…”

Titus 2:10 speaks of adorning the doctrine of God. Our lives should reflect the beauty of the gospel we profess. When we live in holiness, humility, and love, we make the doctrine of grace attractive. Our walk should align with our talk so that Christ is honored through us.

“…stop the mouths of the adversaries…”

Consistent obedience is a powerful apologetic. Peter urged Christians to live in such a way “that they may see your good deeds and glorify God” (1 Pet. 2:12). Good works silence critics. Even if the world speaks evil of believers, a godly life can disarm accusations and reflect the truth of the gospel.

“…and glorify God, whose workmanship they are, created in Christ Jesus thereunto…”

Ultimately, the purpose of all good works is the glory of God. Believers are trophies of grace, “created in Christ Jesus for good works” (Eph. 2:10). These works are not spontaneous efforts of moral improvement but the unfolding of God’s eternal design in the life of a redeemed sinner.

“…that having their fruit unto holiness they may have the end, eternal life.”

Good works are not the cause of eternal life, but they are part of the pathway of holiness that leads to it. Romans 6:22 reminds us that sanctification is inseparable from eternal life—not because it earns it, but because it accompanies it. Those whom God justifies, He also sanctifies, and their good works mark them as heirs of glory.

Application for the Believer:

Do you view good works as a burden or as a blessing? The Christian life is not a dull duty, but a joyful response to grace. Let your works be born of faith, rooted in gratitude, and aimed at God’s glory. Examine your life: Are your hands busy in service? Is your obedience deepening your assurance? Are others strengthened by your example? The world is watching—may your good works silence the scoffer and adorn the gospel. And as you serve, remember that your works, though imperfect, are accepted in Christ. So press on, not to earn God’s favor, but because you already have it.