The Westminster Confession of Faith, 16.2

Good Works

Good works in believers to silence the criticism of the enemies of the Gospel. They also glorify God by showing that believers are the workmanship and creation of Jesus Christ, because their aim is that holiness of living which leads to eternal life.

There would be less criticism of the Church and Christianity if there was more evidence of good works in the lives of believers. Unbelievers have an eye for hypocrisy; they’re great at living it, so we should expect them to be equally adept at seeing it in us. Which they do, as often as they can in order to justify themselves for not believing in the Gospel. Take away the hypocrisy, and put in place the good works of the Law, and the criticism of our enemies will cease. Indeed, many will be led to glorify the Lord and declare that He actually does exist as they see good works proliferating from out of the Church. Let it begin with each one of us.

Read Matthew 5.13-16: How did Jesus teach us to think about the powerful effects our good works can have on men? Do you see any evidence that your church is having this kind of effect?

Psalm 33.10-12
Tune: Truro: “Shout, for the Blessed Jesus Reigns”

He nullifies the nations’ plans;
Forever stands His sov’reign Word.
All they are blest who in Him stand –
The chosen people of the Lord.

From The Ailbe Psalter (Knoxville: Waxed Tablet Publications, 2006).

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