Different Types of Works

Steven’s Scribbles
“Different Types of Works”
Eph. 2:8-9
    
    Did you know there is more than just one type of “works” in the Bible? If there wasn’t, Paul would be contradicting the words of Jesus Christ. “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent” (John 6:29). When asked about doing the works of God, Jesus responded that belief (faith) is a work of God. “For by grace you have been saved, through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Eph. 2:8-9). So are Paul and Jesus at odds here? If you believe there is just one type of “works” in the Bible, then yes. However, there are 3 different types of works found in the Scriptures. 1) There are works of the Law of Moses (Rom. 3:27-28; Gal. 2:15-16). 2) Works of personal merit (2 Tim. 1:9; Titus 3:5). 3) Works of obedience (John 6:28-29; James 2:14-26). As a matter of fact, faith is a work itself and it is a work of obedience (1 Thess. 1:3; John 6:29). So what type of works is Paul addressing? If you keep reading in the same chapter, it is evident Paul was referring to the works of the Law of Moses: “But now in Christ Jesus you who formerly were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall, by abolishing in His flesh the enmity, which is the Law of commandments contained in ordinances, so that in Himself He might make the two into one new man, thus establishing peace” (Eph. 2:13-15). I love you all!


In His service,
Steven Hugley