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| Q: | I believe that God teaches us in His Word that we are justified / declared righteous through faith alone. I also believe the Bible teaches that people will be judged according to works (Romans 2:6-8; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Matthew 25:31-46; and other passages). I know that true faith is never alone, it will always produce fruit and results according to God’s will. Yet it still seems like these two teachings conflict. But I know these teachings cannot be opposed to each other, as the apostle Paul taught both of these teachings and Scripture cannot contradict itself. I am having difficulty reconciling these two teachings. Can you please explain how these two teachings do not contradict? Are we judged by our deeds because our deeds are an indication of true faith? Are there Lutheran confessions or other articles that address and explain how these two teachings coexist? | ||||||||
| A: | Thanks for seeking clarifications on this important subject. In a certain sense you have already addressed your concern or answered your question. We are judged solely on the basis of faith or unbelief but also "according to" works as the evidence of that faith or lack of faith. The subject and the Bible references deserve review and a number of portions of the Lutheran Confessions treat the matter. I suggest the Augsburg Confession Article VI (Concerning the New Obedience)and Article XX (Concerning Faith and Good Works); the Apology of the Augsburg Confession, Article IV (Justification), Article XX (Good Works); Smalcald Articles, #13 (How a Person is Justified and Concerning Good Works); Formula of Concord, Article IV (Good Works). If you seek more contemporary essays on the subject, I suggest essays that you can download from these sites: | ||||||||
This is recent question #42 of 50
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