Faith and Works by Thirza M. Foster

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 21, 1871

Faith and Works.

By Thirza M. Foster

The life of Jesus our pattern was consistent with his teachings. In him there was no unbelief, nor was there anything like a spirit of disobedience. Although his faith was so strong that he believed every word that proceeded out of the mouth of God, yet it did not lead him to neglect good works. Jesus did not use the shield of faith as a weapon to destroy obedience; but was himself careful to fulfill all righteousness. He kept his Father’s commandments and abode in his love. In order to save mankind from their sins, he had to be without sin; and against its commission, either in word, thought, or deed, he constantly watched and prayed. His faith and obedience both proceeded from the pure fountain of love to God and man.

Thus we see that faith which is not productive of good works is not the Christian faith. It has no conformity to that which appeared in Christ. It is not the fruit of his Spirit; nor does it bear his image. True faith, while it hangs on the promise, inquires for the path of duty, saying, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” The religion of Jesus not only excites us to trust in God with all our heart, but also to love his law, and try diligently to fulfill all its requirements.

There is a class of professors in these last days who exalt faith, to the casting down of good works. Jesus says, “By their fruits ye shall know them.” Their depraved hearts do not delight in the law of God; they disobey its precepts, and teach others to do so. They even treat with contempt those who do and teach them, calling them reproachful names. They seem not to consider that they are disregarding Christ’s example, and gratifying Satan. They turn the grace of God into lasciviousness, by making it an excuse for disobedience.

Many of these poor, deluded souls once walked in the light of truth; but they have departed from God. The light that was in them has become darkness; and how great is that darkness! It is right to trust in God to save us; but that should not make us feel that we have nothing to do with his commandments, of which he says, “If a man do he shall even live in them.” We want to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and imitate his example; then we shall have faith that is genuine; and obedience to the law of God will be its legitimate fruit.

THIRZA M. FOSTER.

Vienna, Wis.