Are We Saved by Faith or Works?

The protestant debate continues

Faith and Works: A Catholic Understanding

The relationship between faith and works in salvation is one of the most misunderstood aspects of Catholic theology, yet it is beautifully harmonious when viewed through the lens of Sacred Scripture and Tradition. At the heart of this harmony is the distinction between the "works of the law" condemned by St. Paul and the "works of love and mercy" commanded by Christ.

St. Paul on "Works of the Law"

St. Paul often emphasizes that we are not justified by "works of the law" but by faith in Jesus Christ (Galatians 2:16). Some interpret this to mean that works play no role in salvation. However, a closer examination reveals that Paul is speaking specifically about the works prescribed by the Mosaic Law, such as circumcision, dietary regulations, and ritual observances. These practices, while integral to the Old Covenant, could not save; they were a shadow of the New Covenant reality fulfilled in Christ (Hebrews 10:1).

Paul's criticism of these works is not a rejection of all works but a recognition that salvation comes from the grace of God, not human effort. As he writes, "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not from you; it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one may boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9). These "works" are not acts of love but legalistic observances. They contrast sharply with the works of love and mercy that flow from a life transformed by faith in Christ.

Christ on Works of Love and Mercy

Jesus Himself places tremendous emphasis on works of love and mercy, particularly in Matthew 25:31-46. In the parable of the sheep and the goats, He describes the final judgment where people are judged based on their acts of kindness: feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and visiting the sick and imprisoned. Jesus declares, "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me" (Matthew 25:40). These works are not optional; they are the fruit of true faith and a requirement for entering the kingdom of heaven.

James on Faith and Works

St. James, inspired by the Holy Spirit, reinforces this teaching, famously stating, "Faith without works is dead" (James 2:26). He challenges the notion that faith can exist apart from action, using the example of Abraham, whose faith was demonstrated and completed by his willingness to offer Isaac (James 2:21-22). James and Paul do not contradict each other; rather, they address different errors. Paul combats the reliance on legalistic works, while James emphasizes the necessity of works as the natural fruit of living faith.

The Catholic Perspective: Christ Working Through Us

Catholics believe we are saved by grace through faith, but this faith must be active and alive, bearing the fruit of love and mercy. The works we perform are not our own; they are Christ working in and through us. As Jesus said, "I am the vine, you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing" (John 15:5).

This teaching underscores that the works of love and mercy Catholics value are not about earning salvation. Instead, they are about cooperating with God’s grace, allowing Him to live and act within us. Our role is to say "yes" to Christ, to give Him our fiat, just as Mary did when she said, "Let it be done to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38).

Conclusion

The Catholic view of salvation integrates faith and works in a way that reflects the fullness of Scripture. We are saved by grace, through faith, and by the works of love and mercy that Christ accomplishes in us. These works are not our own efforts but the evidence of Christ living within us. Our task is to believe and surrender, letting Him work through us to bring His love to the world. Thus, faith and works are not in competition but in perfect harmony, united in Christ.