Father Matthew, I love the paradoxical truth about "works." It is chiefly about believing in Jesus and trusting in him.
Of course, a temptation might be to lapse into "quietism": an error of thinking that God will do everything.
The paradox, it seems, is that we are "doing" our part in believing and trusting in Christ. Good works (I believe) flow from this belief and this trust--such as loving those entrusted to us, helping someone in need, sharing our resources. It is a kind of "overflow" of grace.
Am I thinking/believing correctly?
With continued gratitude for your wise and practical sermons!
Indeed, Daniel. You’re right to name the risk of quietism, but also the opposite risk: trying to “earn” salvation through our own strength. The Gospel frees us from both. As you beautifully put it, good works are the overflow of grace, like rivers flowing from the fountain of faith and trust in Christ.
Father Matthew, I love the paradoxical truth about "works." It is chiefly about believing in Jesus and trusting in him.
Of course, a temptation might be to lapse into "quietism": an error of thinking that God will do everything.
The paradox, it seems, is that we are "doing" our part in believing and trusting in Christ. Good works (I believe) flow from this belief and this trust--such as loving those entrusted to us, helping someone in need, sharing our resources. It is a kind of "overflow" of grace.
Am I thinking/believing correctly?
With continued gratitude for your wise and practical sermons!
Daniel
Indeed, Daniel. You’re right to name the risk of quietism, but also the opposite risk: trying to “earn” salvation through our own strength. The Gospel frees us from both. As you beautifully put it, good works are the overflow of grace, like rivers flowing from the fountain of faith and trust in Christ.
Pax Christi!
Excellent and discerning articulation of this "sweet spot"! Thank you, Father Matthew!