The term "works," identified as *ergon* (G2041), refers to action, labor, or toil, embodying the expenditure of mental or physical energy to achieve a purpose. It signifies both the effort put forth and the resulting product, as seen in expressions like a "good work" or a "bad work," indicating the quality of what is produced through that energy. In the context of salvation, works are distinct from grace, as they do not contribute to justification or the initial clearing of guilt before God. However, works serve as evidence of God's creative process within an individual, demonstrating that a clean heart is being formed by Him. These works, produced as a result of God's workmanship, are the fruit of His efforts in creating us in Christ Jesus for the very purpose of good actions. Thus, while grace initiates salvation and frees one from condemnation, works manifest as the proof of that freedom, showing obedience and alignment with God's will through actions consistent with His character and law.

Grace is indispensable to our salvation, serving as the key element in God's entire purpose. Without grace, there would be no calling, no justification, no Holy Spirit given, no sanctification, and ultimately, no salvation. God's grace supports and fills our needs as we live by faith, submitting to Him to fulfill our part in His purpose. It is through His grace that we are spiritually raised from death in sin to life, receiving a new spirit, God's Holy Spirit. The apostles adapted the Greek term *charis* to express grace in a New Testament context, infusing it with spiritual significance beyond its secular meaning of charm and beauty. They set *charis* to represent the power of God that enables Christians to live the new life in Christ. Grace, as used by the apostles, often signifies the powers given by God to meet our spiritual needs, becoming the source of strength to overcome and glorify Him. In relation to salvation, grace is God's gift, not something we can earn through works or faith. Our calling and election by God precede any saving knowledge or faith in Him, ensuring that even the smallest of our works play no part in saving us. Grace is a continuous flow, supplying not just forgiveness of sin, but also blessings, favor, knowledge, understanding, wisdom, healings, protection, and more through God's loving concern for our spiritual creation and His purpose.

The Greek word *ergon* (G2041), meaning work, is central to understanding the relationship between faith and works. In James 2:20, the term is linked to the concept of barrenness through the Greek word *argos*, which literally means "no work," derived from a (negative) and *ergon* (work). This paints a vivid picture of a land that, despite receiving sunshine, lacks rain and thus remains unproductive and desolate. Similarly, a person with faith but without works is like this barren land, unable to produce anything profitable. Works are essential, as they are required alongside faith to foster growth and maturity in spiritual life. Works directed toward God involve doing His will and obeying His laws, while works toward neighbors focus on serving and doing good for them. This combination of faith and works is vital for promoting godly character and exemplifying true Christian living.