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I recall hearing the preacher gal on TV discussing this. She brings up all the original Greek words, etc. Diagrams the sentences on a big white board. I forget exactly what the words were, but there are three different Greek(?) words for what gets translated as “work”. One was “dynamos” or something similar - where we get the word dynamite from.

Anyway, one Greek word meant “works” in the meaning that the power was from God. (Such as in “judge a man by his works”) Not the MAN’s work, but the visible expression of GOD working through the man.

The other Greek word meant “work” in the sense of the power coming from the MAN. So these “works” (the man's work) doesn't help any with regard to salvation.

The third Greek word for “work” was mentioned once, and was some mundane reference.

Anyway - that sure cleared up a LOT of the questions I had about the whole faith and works thing. Of course - that begs the question. Am I (are we?) always open to what God is wanting us to do, so that we are performing HIS mighty works?

The church I go to now puts a lot of emphasis on “Okay, you're saved. But are you living life Exceedingly Abundantly!? (Not in the “blessed by riches” that some folks go by). But in the sense of are you stepping out on the fringes of your faith? Putting yourself into God's hands and letting him work BIG things through you. Are you letting God use you to make a Deeper Impact in the community. And seeing the work of God around you, you will be blessed.