Hello Pastor Nick,

Thank you for sharing this thoughtful response to Pastor William’s reflection on faith and works. Your insights beautifully highlight the balance between grace and the life of obedience we are called to live as believers. The passage you referenced—“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9)—emphasizes salvation as a divine gift, given freely by God rather than earned through human effort. This truth is central to understanding the mercy and love of Christ and serves as an assurance for all believers.

Another passage that further expands on this concept is “So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (James 2:17). This verse reminds us that true faith manifests in action, not as a requirement for salvation, but as an authentic response to God’s grace. As believers, our actions are evidence of a transformed life, one that reflects Christ’s love and character in how we serve, uplift, and encourage others in faith. Works do not precede grace; they follow as a natural outflow of a heart surrendered to God.

Your reflection highlights an essential truth—salvation transforms us, and that transformation should be visible in how we live. Grace leads us to engage in good works, not out of obligation but out of joy and gratitude for what God has done. In practical terms, believers can strengthen one another by fostering accountability, practicing generosity, and living with compassion. As a church community, how can we continue to encourage one another in living out this grace-driven faith, especially in times of hardship?

Blessings, Pastor Jeffrey