A Study of Good Works
The concept of "good works" is foundational to Christian life, yet it's often misunderstood or approached with hesitation. In the inaugural episode of Made for Good, hosts Josh and Mark delve into the biblical understanding of good works and why they're central to our purpose as Christians. Their journey began years ago with a simple question: "Have you ever looked up how many times the Bible talks about good works or actively doing good?" This curiosity led to weekly Bible studies that eventually transformed into a 16-lesson class for their church community.
One of the most critical clarifications they make is that good works don't lead to salvation—rather, they flow from it. As Ephesians 2:8-9 clearly states, salvation comes by grace through faith, not as a result of works. However, verse 10 continues with the purpose behind salvation: "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them." This represents a profound shift in perspective for many believers. Christians aren't doing good works to earn God's favor; they're doing them because they've already been transformed and equipped specifically for this purpose.
Jesus himself modeled this lifestyle perfectly. He didn't just preach love—he demonstrated it through feeding the hungry, healing the sick, and serving the broken. His approach always pointed to the Father rather than drawing attention to himself. As Matthew 5:16 instructs, "Let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who's in heaven." This illuminates the true purpose of Christian service: not self-promotion, but glorification of God. The tension between letting our light shine (Matthew 5) and not practicing righteousness to be seen by others (Matthew 6) isn't contradictory but speaks to our motivation—are we seeking human approval or God's?
The hosts identify several barriers that often prevent Christians from engaging in good works: busyness, fear (especially of rejection), doubt about whether small actions make a difference, and reluctance to step outside comfort zones. These challenges can paralyze believers, making them hesitant to act even when they recognize opportunities to do good. However, Josh and Mark emphasize that good works don't need to be grandiose gestures. Simple actions like writing an encouraging note, helping a neighbor, or checking in on someone who seems sad can create ripple effects that impact lives in ways we may never fully see.
The podcast concludes with a practical challenge: pray for opportunities to do good, commit to at least one act of kindness this week, examine your motivations, and consider keeping a private journal of the good works you do each day—not for public recognition, but to remind yourself how God is working through you. This approach helps believers remember that they are fulfilling their divine purpose when they engage in acts of service, regardless of how small those acts might seem.