Faith + Works

1 Corinthians 6:11

And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

Why this supports: This verse describes salvation using transformational and cleansing language: washed, sanctified, and justified. Those who argue that works are required for salvation understand “washed” to refer to an actual cleansing event, often identified with baptism, rather than a purely declarative or forensic act. Under this reading, justification is not merely a legal declaration received by faith alone, but part of a process involving real moral and spiritual change accomplished through obedience and sacramental action. Because washing and sanctification are presented alongside justification, the verse is taken to imply that salvation involves more than belief—it includes acts or processes by which a person is made holy. Additionally, the transformation from sinful lifestyles listed in the previous verses (1 Corinthians 6:9–10) is seen as evidence that behavioral change is necessary for inheriting the kingdom of God. Salvation, therefore, is understood as contingent upon being washed and sanctified, not merely believing.

Assumptions being made: 1) That “washed” refers to water baptism or a concrete cleansing act. 2) That justification here includes an internal moral transformation. 3) That sanctification is a prerequisite or component of salvation, not a result. 4) That lifestyle change is necessary to maintain or obtain salvific status.

1 Peter 3:21

The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:

Why this supports: This verse explicitly states that “baptism doth also now save us.” Those who argue that works are required for salvation take this statement at face value, understanding baptism as a necessary act through which salvation is effected. Unlike other passages where baptism is implied or inferred, this verse directly connects baptism with salvation using explicit saving language. Because baptism is an outward, physical act performed in obedience to Christ’s command, it is classified as a required work, even if its saving power is attributed to God through Christ’s resurrection.

Assumptions being made: 1) That the parenthetical clarification—“not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God”—is understood not to negate baptism’s salvific role. 2) That salvation is incomplete prior to baptism. 3) That baptism is the means by which salvation is applied.

Acts 2:38

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Why this supports: This verse explicitly connects repentance and baptism with “the remission of sins.” Those who argue that works are required for salvation understand the command sequence as establishing necessary conditions: repentance (a decisive human response) and baptism (a concrete act of obedience) are required in order to obtain forgiveness. The phrase “for the remission of sins” is central to this interpretation. Under a works-required reading, “for” is taken in a causal sense—meaning that repentance and baptism are performed so that sins may be forgiven, rather than as a response to forgiveness already received. Because baptism is a physical act administered to the individual, it is understood as a required work tied directly to salvation.

Assumptions being made: 1) That “for the remission of sins” means in order to obtain forgiveness. 2) That baptism is a salvific requirement rather than a symbolic ordinance. 3) That repentance is a condition that must be fulfilled prior to salvation. 4) That receiving the Holy Ghost follows baptism as part of the salvation process. 5) That the indwelling of the Holy Spirit does happen after water baptism, even though there are no actual examples of that in the bible.

Acts 22:16

And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.

Why this supports: This verse directly links baptism with the washing away of sins. Those who argue that works are required for salvation read the commands sequentially and causally: Paul is instructed to arise, be baptized, and thereby wash away his sins. Under this reading, baptism is not merely symbolic but the means by which sins are removed. Because baptism is a physical act performed by the individual in obedience to a command, it is understood as a required work connected to forgiveness. The phrase “wash away thy sins” is taken literally, implying that sins remain until the act of baptism is performed. Additionally, “calling on the name of the Lord” is often interpreted as something enacted within the baptismal act itself, further reinforcing the idea that salvation is completed through this obedient action rather than by faith alone.

Assumptions being made: 1) That “wash away thy sins” is causally connected to baptism. 2) That baptism is the instrumental means of forgiveness. 3) That Paul was not yet forgiven or saved prior to this act. 4) That “calling on the name of the Lord” occurs through baptism.

James 2:17

Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

Why this supports: The verse asserts that faith without works is “dead,” which is often taken to mean that faith cannot save unless accompanied by works.

Assumptions being made: 1) That “dead faith” is equivalent to non-saving faith. 2) That works are necessary to make faith salvific.

James 2:24

Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.

Why this supports: This verse explicitly states that justification is “by works” and “not by faith only.” On the surface, it directly contradicts faith-alone language and is the clearest single text used to argue that works are necessary for justification.

Assumptions being made: 1) That “justified” here refers to justification before God, not before men. 2) That “works” are a co-instrument or requirement for salvation. 3) That “faith only” refers to initial saving faith.

John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Why this supports:

John 3:5

Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

Why this supports: This verse states an absolute condition for entering the kingdom of God: a person must be born of water and of the Spirit. Those who argue that works are required for salvation commonly interpret “born of water” as referring to water baptism. Under that reading, baptism is not merely symbolic but a necessary act that must occur, alongside the work of the Spirit, for salvation to be possible. Because baptism is a physical act performed in obedience to Christ’s command, it is understood as a required work. Thus, salvation (or entrance into the kingdom) is seen as contingent not on faith alone, but on undergoing baptism as part of the new birth.

Assumptions being made: 1) That “born of water” refers specifically to water baptism. 2) That “enter into the kingdom of God” refers to eternal salvation. 3) That baptism is a necessary condition for regeneration, not merely a sign of it. 4) That “except” establishes an absolute salvific requirement.

Mark 16:16

He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

Why this supports: This verse explicitly links salvation to both believing and being baptized. The first clause presents salvation as contingent upon two stated conditions rather than belief alone. Those who argue that works are required for salvation understand baptism is "works" and as a necessary act of obedience that must accompany faith in order for salvation to occur. Because baptism is an outward action performed by the believer, it is interpreted as a required work rather than a mere symbol. Under this reading, faith by itself is insufficient; it must be completed or accompanied by the act of baptism for salvation to be granted.

Assumptions being made: 1) That baptism is a salvific requirement rather than a symbolic ordinance. 2) That “shall be saved” is conditioned equally on belief and baptism. 3) That baptism qualifies as a work required for salvation. 4) That the first clause defines the full condition for salvation rather than the second clause merely identifying the ground of condemnation.

Matthew 24:13

But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

Why this supports: From a Works-Based Salvation theology, Matthew 24:13 supports the idea that salvation is conditional upon perseverance, teaching that enduring in faith and obedience until the end is required in order to be finally saved. This interpretation assumes that “saved” refers to eternal salvation, that endurance is a necessary human contribution, and that salvation is not secure until the end of one’s life.

Assumptions being made: 1) That “saved” refers to eternal salvation. 2) That endurance is a meritorious or necessary cause. 3) That salvation is not fully possessed until the end. 4) That true believers can fail to endure. 5) That Jesus is addressing individual salvation, not a specific historical context.

Matthew 25:46

And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.

Why this supports: “Righteous” is inferred from the prior context of works, suggesting that those works define who enters eternal life.

Assumptions being made: 1) That righteousness here is achieved through works. 2) That the judgment is based on performance rather than status.

Matthew 7:21

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.

Why this supports: Entrance into the kingdom is conditioned on doing the Father’s will, not merely verbal profession. This is commonly read as obedience being required for salvation.

Assumptions being made: 1) That “enter into the kingdom” refers to eternal salvation. 2) That “doing the will of the Father” refers to moral or ethical works.

Philippians 2:12

Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling

Why this supports: This verse explicitly commands believers to “work out your own salvation.” The imperative verb work out implies active human effort rather than passive reception. The phrase “your own salvation” directly connects salvation to human action, and the added phrase “with fear and trembling” suggests seriousness, accountability, and possible negative consequences if the command is not obeyed. On its face, the verse appears to teach that salvation is not merely something already completed, but something that must be actively carried forward or achieved through obedience. The context highlights obedience (“as ye have always obeyed”), reinforcing the idea that obedience and effort are essential components related to salvation. Because the command is addressed to professing believers, the verse is often used to argue that salvation is conditional upon continued obedience and faithful works, not secured solely by an initial act of faith.

Assumptions being made: 1) That “salvation” here refers to final or ultimate salvation, not merely sanctification. 2) That “work out” implies contributing effort toward obtaining or retaining salvation. 3) That fear and trembling indicate the possibility of failing to attain salvation.

Revelation 22:14

Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.

Why this supports: Access to the tree of life is connected to commandment-keeping.

Assumptions being made: 1) That commandment-keeping is the condition for eternal life. 2) That this refers to justification, not reward or access.

Romans 2:13

For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.

Why this supports: Justification is explicitly said to belong to “doers of the law,” suggesting obedience is required.

Assumptions being made: 1) That this describes actual justification rather than a hypothetical standard. 2) That “doers of the law” can attain justification.

Romans 2:6-7

Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:

Why this supports: Eternal life is connected to perseverance in doing good, implying works are necessary for salvation.

Assumptions being made: 1) That this passage describes how salvation is attained. 2) That “eternal life” is earned by continued good works.

Romans 6:3-4

Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

Why this supports: This passage explicitly connects baptism with participation in Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Those who argue that works are required for salvation interpret baptism here as the means by which a person is united to Christ. Being “baptized into Jesus Christ” and “buried with him by baptism” is understood as more than symbolic—it is viewed as the moment when saving union with Christ occurs. Under this reading, baptism is not merely an outward sign of salvation already received, but the instrumental act through which the believer enters into Christ’s saving death and resurrection. Since salvation is inseparable from union with Christ, baptism is therefore seen as necessary for salvation. The phrase “walk in newness of life” is also taken to imply that this new life begins at baptism, reinforcing the idea that salvation is effected through this act.

Assumptions being made: 1) That “baptized into Jesus Christ” refers to water baptism, not Spirit baptism. 2) That baptism is the means of union with Christ rather than a symbol of it. 3) That participation in Christ’s death and resurrection occurs at water baptism. 4) That salvation does not precede baptism.

Titus 3:5

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

Why this supports: Although this verse explicitly denies salvation by “works of righteousness,” it is nevertheless frequently cited in support of a works-required or sacramental view of salvation because it identifies “the washing of regeneration” as the means by which God saves. Those who argue that works are required for salvation interpret “washing of regeneration” as referring to water baptism. Under this reading, salvation is not achieved by moral works, but it is still mediated through a concrete act—the washing associated with baptism—alongside the renewing work of the Holy Spirit. Thus, while human merit is excluded, a required ritual act remains. In this framework, baptism is not categorized as a “work of righteousness” but as a God-ordained means through which regeneration occurs. Salvation therefore still requires participation in an external act, even if the saving power is attributed to God’s mercy.

Assumptions being made: 1) That “washing of regeneration” refers specifically to water baptism. 2) That regeneration occurs at the moment of this washing. 3) That baptism is a required means of salvation, though not a meritorious work. 4) That Paul distinguishes ritual washing from “works of righteousness”.

1 Corinthians 1:21

For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Salvation Is Explicitly Linked to Belief Alone. 2) Works Are Entirely Absent from the Saving Instrument. 3) The Language Sounds Exclusively Faith-Oriented.

1 Timothy 1:16

Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Eternal Life Is Explicitly Linked to Belief. 2) Paul’s Conversion Emphasizes "Obtained Mercy", Not Works. 3) Paul Is Presented as a Universal Pattern for Salvation by Grace Through Faith Alone.

2 Timothy 1:9

Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Salvation Is Explicitly Said to Be “Not According to Our Works”. 2) Grace Is Presented as the Sole Ground. 3) Salvation Is Spoken of as Accomplished.

Acts 10:43

To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Remission of Sins Is Explicitly Tied to Belief Alone. 2) The Statement Is Universal and Unqualified Leaving Little Room for Works as a Necessary Component. 3) By grounding this claim in the prophetic witness, the verse seems to present belief as the consistent, comprehensive biblical means of forgiveness, potentially excluding works altogether.

Acts 10:44

While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) The Holy Spirit Is Given Immediately Upon Hearing/Believing. 2) No Human Action Precedes Spirit Reception. 3) Spirit Indwelling Functions as Divine Approval and Salvation. 4) The Holy Spirit is Given Without Water Baptism.

Acts 15:11

But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Salvation Is Attributed Solely to Grace With No Mention of Works of Obedience. 2) Equality of Salvation for Jews and Gentiles Without Works. 3) Faith and Grace Are Emphasized, Works Are Explicitly Rejected.

Acts 15:9

And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Heart-Purification Is Attributed Solely to Faith. 2) No Distinction Made on the Basis of Works. 3) Purification Refers to Salvation.

Acts 16:30-31

And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) A Direct Question Receives a Faith-Only Answer. 2) The Language Is Clear and Sufficient. 3) Salvation Is Promised Immediately.

Acts 26:18

To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Forgiveness and Inheritance Are Linked to Faith. 2) Faith Is Explicitly Named as the Instrument. 3) Salvation Language Is Comprehensive.

Ephesians 1:13

In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Salvation Sequence Is Explicitly Faith-Based: heard → believed → sealed. 2) The Seal Is Given Immediately After Belief. 3) No Role for Works Is Mentioned at All.

Ephesians 2:8-9

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Salvation Is Explicitly Said to Be “Not of Works”. 2) Faith Is Presented as the Sole Instrument. 3) Boasting Is Eliminated Entirely.

Galatians 2:16

Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Justification Is Explicitly Denied to Works. 2) Faith Is Repeatedly Identified as the Instrument. 3) Universal Negation of Works.

Galatians 3:11

But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Justification Is Explicitly Separated from Law-Doing (works). 2) Life Is Said to Be by Faith. 3) The Statement Is Framed as “Evident”.

Galatians 3:14

That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) The Promise (Holy Spirit) Is Received “Through Faith”. 2) The Abrahamic Blessing Is Linked to Faith, Not Works. 3) Receiving the Spirit Appears Immediate and Unconditional.

Galatians 3:2-3

This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?

Why this seems to conflict: 1) The Spirit Is Received by Faith, Not Works. 2) Perfection Is Not Achieved by the Flesh. 3) Works Are Framed Negatively in Both Beginning and Continuation.

Galatians 3:22

But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) The Promise Is Explicitly Given “by Faith”. 2) Universal Sinfulness Eliminates Works as a Solution. 3) Believers Alone Are Identified as Recipients.

Galatians 3:24

Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Justification Is Explicitly Attributed to Faith. 2) The Law Is Portrayed as Preparatory, Not Participatory. 3) No Ongoing Role for Works in Justification Is Mentioned.

Galatians 3:6

Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.

Why this seems to conflict: 1). Righteousness Is Explicitly Credited on the Basis of Belief. 2) Abraham Is Used as the Foundational Example. 3) “Accounted” Suggests a Legal Reckoning Rather Than a Process of Moral Transformation.

Galatians 3:8

And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Justification Is Explicitly Said to Be “Through Faith”. 2) The Gospel Itself Is Defined in Faith Terms. 3) Abrahamic Blessing Is Universalized Apart from Works.

Genesis 15:6

And he believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Righteousness Is Counted Solely on the Basis of Belief. 2) This Occurs Prior to Any Recorded Obedient Work. 3) The Language Is Declarative, Not Transformational.

Habakkuk 2:4

Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Life Is Explicitly Attributed to Faith. 2) Faith Is Presented as the Defining Characteristic of the Righteous. 3) It Teaches Life by Faith, Not by Works.

Hebrews 4:3

For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.

Why this seems to conflict: Hebrews 4:3 conflicts with works-based salvation because it teaches that God’s rest is entered by belief alone, grounded in God’s finished work, not achieved through human effort. 1) Entering rest is conditioned on belief, not works. 2) Rest is present, not future. 3) God’s work is already finished. 3) Unbelief—not lack of works—kept others out.

Isaiah 64:6

But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Human Righteousness Is Declared Worthless. 2) No Distinction Is Made Between Good and Bad Works. 3) Total Dependence on God Is Implied.

James 2:23

And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Righteousness Is Explicitly Imputed by Belief Alone. 2) The Fulfilled Scripture Emphasizes Faith, Not Works. 3) “Friend of God” Status Appears Faith-Based.

John 1:12

But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Becoming God’s Children Is Tied Directly to Belief. 2) Receiving Christ and Believing Are Presented As Sufficient. 3) Adoption Is a Core Salvation Blessing.

John 20:31

But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Eternal Life Is Explicitly Tied to Believing. 2) John States His Evangelistic Purpose in Faith-Only Terms. 3) Life Is Promised as a Direct Result of Believing.

John 3:18

He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Condemnation Is Based Solely on Belief or Unbelief. 2) Works Are Absent from the Criterion of Judgment. 3) The Language Is Absolute and Present-Tense.

John 3:36

He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

Why this seems to conflict: <ul> <li>“Believeth Not” Can Be Rendered as “Disobeys”. From a Works-Based Salvation perspective, attention is drawn to the second clause. The phrase translated “believeth not” should be understood to include the idea of refusing obedience to the Son. Thus, unbelief is not mere intellectual doubt but active disobedience.</li> <li>Belief Is Understood as Ongoing, Obedient Faith. Works-Based Salvation theology proposes “believeth” as continuing, lived faithfulness, not a momentary act. Everlasting life is possessed by those who remain in obedient to the Son.</li> <li>Everlasting Life Is Relational, Not Merely Declarative. “Hath everlasting life” is read relationally: life is found in union with the Son. Works-Based Salvation theology holds that remaining in that life requires continued works of obedience.</li> <li>The Broader Johannine Context Emphasizes Obedience and Abiding. John elsewhere connects life with obedience and perseverance like in John 14:15 — loving Christ involves keeping His commandments and John 15:6 — failure to abide results in being cast forth. Thus, belief that grants life should be understood as belief that abides and obeys.</li> <li>Wrath Abides Where Faithful Allegiance Is Rejected. The wrath of God “abides” on those who reject the Son in unbelief. Works-Based Salvation theology sees this as consistent with the view that salvation requires continuing faithful response, not belief divorced from ongoing obedience.</li> </ul>

John 5:24

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Everlasting Life Is Presently Possessed by Belief. 2) Condemnation Is Removed Solely on the Basis of Belief. 3) The Saving Criteria Are Explicit and Limited.

John 6:28-29

Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Jesus Reduces “Works of God” to Belief Alone. 2) Belief Is Called the Only “Work”. 3) The Question and Answer Are Direct and Comprehensive.

John 6:40

And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Everlasting Life Is Explicitly Conditioned on Seeing and Believing. 2) God’s Will Is Defined Solely in Faith Terms. 3) Final Resurrection Is Promised on the Basis of Belief.

John 6:47

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Everlasting Life Is Presented as a Present Possession by Belief Alone. 2) No Additional Conditions Are Mentioned. 3) The Statement Is Solemn and Emphatic.

John 8:24

I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Condemnation Is Explicitly Grounded in Unbelief. 2) Belief Is Presented as the Sole Escape from Death in Sin. 3) Works Are Entirely Absent from the Criterion.

Luke 18:42

And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Salvation Is Explicitly Attributed to Faith Alone. 2) The Statement Is Personal, Immediate, and Unqualified. 3) Jesus Himself Interprets the Cause of Salvation.

Luke 23:42-43

And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Salvation Is Granted Without Any Recorded Works. 2) Faith Alone Appears Sufficient. 3) Immediate Assurance of Eternal Destiny. 4) No Water Baptism was Needed for Salvation.

Luke 7:50

And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Salvation Is Explicitly Attributed to Faith Alone. 2) The Statement Gives Clear Declaration of Salvation Without Works. 3) Jesus Himself Identifies the Saving Cause (Faith).

Mark 16:16

He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Condemnation Is Based Solely on Unbelief Not Lack of Baptism. 2) Salvation Is Framed Primarily Around Belief. 3) The Verse Allows for Salvation Logic Without Works.

Philippians 3:9

And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Righteousness Is Explicitly Said to Be “By Faith”. 2) Paul Renounces All Personal Achievement. 2) Righteousness Is Described as God-Given, Not Humanly Maintained.

Romans 1:16

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Salvation Is Explicitly Conditioned on Belief. 2) The Statement Suggests a Complete and Sufficient Condition for Salvation. 3) The Gospel Itself Is Defined in Faith Terms.

Romans 1:17

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Righteousness Is Revealed Entirely in Terms of Faith. 2) Life Is Explicitly Said to Be “By Faith”. 3) The Verse Is Programmatic for Romans.

Romans 1:17

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Righteousness Is Revealed Entirely in Terms of Faith. 2) Life Is Explicitly Said to Be “By Faith”. 3) This Verse Appears To Set The Tone For Faith Alone, Not Faith Plus Works.

Romans 10:13

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Salvation is Promised on a Single Stated Condition: Calling Upon Jesus. 2) The Promise is Immediate and Absolute. 3) “Calling” is a Faith-Response, Not a Work.

Romans 10:9

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Salvation Is Promised on the Basis of Confession and Belief. 2) The Statement Is Clear, Direct, and Complete. 3) Belief Is Located in the Heart, Not in Deeds.

Romans 11:6

And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Grace and Works Are Presented as Mutually Exclusive. 2) Works Are Explicitly Excluded from Grace-Based Salvation. 3) Combining Grace and Works Destroys The Nature of Grace Itself.

Romans 3:22

Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Righteousness Is Explicitly Said to Be “By Faith”. 2) The Scope Is Universal for Believers Alone. 3) Receiving Righteousness, Irrespective of Actions.

Romans 3:25

Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Propitiation Is Received “Through Faith”. 2) Remission of Sins Is Grounded in Christ’s Blood, Not Human Action. 3) The Saving Act Is God-Centered and Completed.

Romans 3:26

To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) God Justifies the One Who Believes. 2) Justification Is Presented as a Completed Divine Act. 3) No Role for Works Is Mentioned in Justification.

Romans 3:27-28

Where is boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Justification Is Explicitly Said to Be “Without the Deeds of the Law”. 2) Boasting Is Excluded Precisely Because Works Are Excluded. 3) Paul Calls This a Doctrinal Conclusion on Salvation.

Romans 3:30

Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Justification Is Attributed Exclusively to Faith. 2) Faith Is the Sole Common Means for All People. 3) The Language Suggests A Complete and Sufficient Explanation.

Romans 4:11

And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also:

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Righteousness Is Explicitly Given Before the Work. 2) Circumcision Is Reduced to a Sign and Seal, Not a Cause. 3) Imputation Is Grounded in Faith Alone.

Romans 4:16

Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,

Why this seems to conflict: 1) The Promise Is Explicitly Grounded in Faith and Grace. 2) Faith Is Necessary to Make the Promise “Sure”. 3) Abraham Is Identified as Father on the Basis of Faith.

Romans 4:24

But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead;

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Righteousness Is Imputed on the Condition of Belief. 2) The Language Supports Justification Apart From Works. 3) The Parallel With Abraham Reinforces Faith Alone.

Romans 4:3

For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Righteousness Is Counted Solely on the Basis of Belief. 2) Paul Uses Abraham as the Normative Example. 3) The Language Is Forensic, Not Behavioral.

Romans 4:5

But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Justification Is Explicitly Granted to One Who “Worketh Not”. 2) God Justifies the Ungodly Prior to Any Works. 3) Faith Alone Is Counted for Righteousness.

Romans 5:1-2

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Justification Is Explicitly Said to Be “By Faith”. 2) Peace with God Is a Present Result of Faith-Based Justification. 3) Access into Grace Is Also “By Faith”. 4) Standing in Grace Appears Secure.

Romans 9:30

What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Righteousness Is Attained Apart from Pursuit or Works. 2) Righteousness Is Defined as “of Faith”. 3) The Contrast with Israel Strengthens the Faith-Only Reading.

Titus 3:5

Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

Why this seems to conflict: 1) Salvation Is Explicitly Said to Be “Not by Works”. 2) Salvation Is Attributed Entirely to God’s Mercy. 3) Regeneration Is God’s Action, Not Man’s.