WCF 16 Good Works

Question 1

What makes a good work a good work?

Answer 1

Good works are only those commanded in the Scriptures.

Question 2

What is the purpose of good works?

Answer 2

They

• -are evidence of a living faith
• -manifest thankfulness
• -strengthen assurance
• -edify brethren
• -adorn the gospel profession
• -stop the mouths of adversaries
• -glorify God

Question 3

How do we perform good works?

Answer 3

There must be a special influence of the Spirit of God.

Question 4

How are our good works acceptable to God?

Answer 4

Our good works are justified in Christ.
Though we defile them, He accepts them from those who do them out of love for Christ because they conform to His will and proceed from the influence of the Holy Spirit.

Question 5

Can a non-believer perform a good work?

Answer 5

“Splendid sins” (Augustine) are not done to please and glorify God.

Question 6

Do good works get a person into Heaven?

Answer 6

The redeemed will be accompanied by good works. But true good works only are done by the redeemed who are welcomed into Heaven because they trust in Christ.