What Denominations Believe in Salvation by Works
Salvation by works is a theological concept that has been debated and discussed among various Christian denominations for centuries. While many denominations emphasize salvation through faith in Jesus Christ alone, there are several denominations that believe in salvation by works as a complement to faith. This article explores the beliefs of these denominations and their understanding of salvation.
1. Roman Catholicism
The Roman Catholic Church is one of the most prominent denominations that believe in salvation by works. According to Catholic doctrine, salvation is a gift from God that is received through faith, but it is also maintained and perfected through good works. The Catholic Catechism states, “The grace of God is not a grace of nature nor a second nature; it is a supernatural grace, a gift of God, a participation in the life of the risen Christ.” This participation is achieved through faith and good works, which are considered to be the fruit of faith.
2. Orthodox Christianity
Orthodox Christianity, which includes the Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox churches, also holds the belief in salvation by works. The Orthodox Church teaches that salvation is a gift from God that is received through faith, but it is also dependent on the Christian’s personal efforts to live a virtuous life. The Apostle Paul’s statement in Ephesians 2:8-9 is interpreted to mean that while salvation is a gift of grace, it is also a gift that requires the cooperation of the believer. Orthodox Christians are encouraged to engage in prayer, fasting, and almsgiving as a means of expressing their gratitude for the grace received and as a way to grow in their faith.
3. Anglicanism
The Anglican Church, which is a member of the Anglican Communion, also acknowledges the role of works in salvation. The Anglican tradition holds that salvation is a gift from God that is received through faith, but it is also maintained and perfected through good works. The Book of Common Prayer, which is used in Anglican worship, contains the “Prayer of Humble Access,” which acknowledges the importance of good works in the Christian life. The prayer states, “We do not deserve that Thou shouldest receive us; but for Thy great mercy’s sake, O Lord, receive us, as Thy loving children.”
4. Lutheran Church
The Lutheran Church, which is part of the Protestant tradition, teaches that salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone. However, many Lutherans also believe that good works are necessary as a response to the grace received. Martin Luther, the founder of the Lutheran Church, emphasized the importance of good works in his writings. In his book “On the Freedom of a Christian,” Luther states, “The Christian is free from the Law, but not from love. The Law does not save; it only shows us what we should do. Love saves, and love requires that we do good works.”
In conclusion, while many Christian denominations emphasize salvation through faith alone, there are several denominations that believe in salvation by works as a complement to faith. The Roman Catholic Church, Orthodox Christianity, Anglicanism, and the Lutheran Church all teach that good works are necessary for salvation, although their interpretations of the relationship between faith and works may vary. Understanding these beliefs can help us appreciate the diversity within the Christian faith and the various ways in which salvation is perceived and practiced.
