Faith and Works (Teachings of the Orthodox Church)

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I tell you, my friends, don't be afraid of those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will warn you whom you should fear. Fear him, who after he has killed, has power to cast into Gehenna. Yes, I tell you, fear him. Aren't five sparrows sold for two assaria coins? Not one of them is forgotten by God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Therefore don't be afraid. You are of more value than many sparrows. I tell you, everyone who confesses me before men, him will the Son of Man also confess before the angels of God; but he who denies me in the presence of men will be denied in the presence of the angels of God.

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	Faith and Works (Teachings of the Orthodox Church)

QUESTION:

A protestant told me that just believing in Jesus is enough to get one into heaven. This isn't what I was taught, or is my memory incorrect? Please clarify this. These born-again Christians can be very insulting to us.

ANSWER:

Orthodox Christianity teaches that belief in Jesus must be combined with putting that belief into action -- feeding the hungry, ministering to others, etc. Both essential.

We read in the epistles: "Faith without works is dead."

One can indeed "believe" in Christ and yet lead a life that betrays that belief. Hence belief alone is not sufficient. "Not all who say 'Lord, Lord' will have a place in my Kingdom."

Published in January 2011.

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