What Are Good Works In The Bible?
For many Christians, the Bible is a source of insight and inspiration, but also a source of guidance for ethical and moral choices. As such, the Bible speaks about “good works” – the acts of kindness, good deeds, and charitable acts that one can do for their fellow human beings. In this article, we will explore the concept of “good works” in the Bible, and how these works can be used as a model of how to live one’s own life.
The Bible speaks of “good works” in multiple places, but there are a few passages that are particularly relevant when considering this topic. In the book of Ephesians, Paul says that “we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance”. This passage suggests that good works are something that we should strive for, as they have been specially prepared for us by God.
In the book of James, James speaks of the importance of doing “good works”, saying that “faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead”. This passage speaks to the importance of action, not just faith, when it comes to making good moral choices.
The Bible also speaks about “works of mercy”, or acts of charity or kindness towards the poor and needy. In the book of Matthew, Jesus speaks about the importance of caring for the sick and the hungry, saying, “I was hungry and you gave me something to eat”. This passage suggests that we should be caring and compassionate, not only towards our own families, but also towards those less fortunate than us.
The Bible speaks of “works of excellence”, or acts that reflect God’s perfection. In the book of Colossians, Paul writes of being “complete in Him, lacking nothing”. This passage speaks to the importance of striving to do our best in all that we do, and to put forth an effort to do something of worth.
A Biblical Model Of Humility And Self-Sacrifice
One of the best examples of “good works” in the Bible is Jesus’s own example of humility and self-sacrifice. In the gospels, Jesus demonstrates a willingness to put others ahead of himself and to serve those who are less fortunate than him. For example, in the book of Matthew, Jesus tells his followers to “love your enemies, do good to those who hate you”. This shows us that love and kindness should transcend our own selfish desires, and that we should try to help those in need, even when it is not convenient or easy.
In the book of John, Jesus speaks about the importance of humility, saying “he who humbles himself will be exalted”. This passage speaks to the importance of humility and self-sacrifice, and how we should strive to put others before ourselves, even if it costs us something. This can be seen in Jesus’s willingness to give up his life for the sake of others, a true demonstration of self-sacrifice.
The Bible also speaks about the importance of generosity. In the book of Proverbs, Solomon encourages his readers to “give freely and become more wealthy”. This passage suggests that generosity is a virtue, and that those who demonstrate this virtue will be rewarded in the long run.
Wisdom And Discernment As Good Works
Another example of “good works” in the Bible is wisdom and discernment. In the book of Proverbs, Solomon encourages his readers to “trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding”. This passage highlights the importance of seeking wisdom, rather than relying solely on our own understanding, in order to make the best decisions. In addition, the Bible speaks about the importance of living a life of integrity and discernment, rather than conforming to the standards of the world.
In the book of 2 Timothy, Paul encourages his readers to “preach the word of God with all boldness, in season and out of season”. This passage suggests that we should discern what is good and what is evil, and be ready to stand up for what is right. Paul also speaks about the importance of living a life of faith and trust in God, saying “children, obey your parents in the Lord”. This encourages us to give thanks to God even in difficult times, and to trust in His guidance and protection.
The Fruits Of The Spirit As Good Works
Finally, the Bible speaks about “the fruit of the spirit”, or the characteristics of a Christian life that reflect God’s presence in our lives. In the book of Galatians, Paul lists these virtues as “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control”. This passage speaks to the importance of demonstrating these qualities in our own lives, and how they can be used as examples of living a “good life”.
These qualities represent a life that is focused on others, rather than on ourselves. They are a reminder that a life of love, joy, and peace is possible, even in the midst of difficult times. By focusing on these virtues, we can strive to be a reflection of God’s love, and can be an example of His goodness to others.
Living A Life Of Service
Finally, the Bible speaks about the importance of living a life of service. In the book of Mark, Jesus tells his disciples to “love one another as I have loved you”. This passage speaks to the importance of selflessness, and of serving those around us with love and compassion. Jesus also encourages us to be humble and to serve others, saying “whoever would be great among you must be your servant”. This speaks to the importance of putting the needs of others before our own, and to be ready to help those in need.
The examples of “good works” in the Bible are numerous, and can provide us with a model of how to live our own lives. As Christians, we are encouraged to demonstrate humility and self-sacrifice, to live a life of integrity and discernment, and to strive for the “fruits of the spirit”. We are also encouraged to live a life of service, to put the needs of others ahead of our own, and to strive to do good works for the glory of God.
The Power Of Gratitude
The Bible also speaks about the importance of gratitude, and how it can be used as a “good work”. In the book of Colossians, Paul encourages his readers to “sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with thanksgiving in your hearts”. This speaks to the importance of giving thanks to God for all that He has done for us.
Similarly, the book of 1 Thessalonians encourages us to “give thanks in all circumstances”. This suggests that we should be thankful for the good things in life, even in hard times, and to focus on what we have rather than what we lack. Gratitude can be a powerful force in our lives, as it helps us to recognize the blessings of our lives, and to be thankful for each day that we are given.
Doing Good Works In Our Everyday Lives
The Bible speaks to us about the importance of “good works”, and encourages us to strive to do good in our everyday lives. This can look different for everyone, and is determined by our own unique circumstances and gifts. But, regardless of our individual circumstances, we can strive to live a life of kindness and service, of wisdom and discernment, and of love and gratitude. We can strive to be a reflection of God’s goodness, and to do good works for the glory of God.
The Impact Of Good Works
When we strive to do good works in our own lives, the ripple effect can be powerful. By striving to demonstrate those qualities highlighted in the Bible, we can be a reflection of God’s love and goodness to those around us. We can be a witness to our communities, inspiring them with the love of God and inspiring them to do good works in their own lives.
The Bible speaks to us about the importance of “good works” and encourages us to strive to be a reflection of God’s love. When we strive to do good works in our everyday lives, we can make a powerful statement to our communities, and to the world around us.
