2D - Faith and Works

Romans 1:17

“The righteous will live by faith”

Ephesians 2

“It is by grace you have been saved through faith, this is not your own doing”

Galatians 2:16

“No one will be justified by works of the law"

James 2:24

“A person is justified by works and not by faith alone”

Luther on James 2:24

“epistle of straw”

Define covenental nominism

Election of Jews into agreement with God by grace, not works. This participation in the covenant of Judaism was maintained by works.

Luther on purpose of Jewish law

To drive one to despair so they may come to faith.

Sanders on purpose of Jewish law

To maintain participation in the covenant.

What Jewish laws do Christ and Paul exempt Christians from?

Laws on Jewish identity, which ostracise Gentiles and lead to boasting.

Sanders - Paul’s view of the law as necessary for justification

Law does not guarantee salvation - God’s grace does this. Obedience maintains grace, though is not definite. God’s mercy, not human achievement allows salvation.

Council of Trent response to Luther

• Scripture and Church traditions have authority

• Confession, penance and works are necessary for justification

Protestants on Council of Trent response

Viewed it as unbiblical and contradicting scripture

Church practice triggering reformation and discussion of works

Sale of indulgences to save oneself or another from purgatory.