The Bible clearly states that Christians are required to do good works. Jesus Himself declares in Luke 12:48 that to whom much is given, much will be required. While justification cannot be earned by works, as it is a gift through the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ, works are necessary as evidence of belief and repentance before baptism. However, they hold no power to erase past sins; only the blood of Christ provides atonement. Sanctification, a distinct process from justification, demands works of a far greater importance. Hebrews 12:14 urges the pursuit of holiness, without which no one will see the Lord. Sanctification is the inward spiritual work of Jesus Christ within us, separating us from sin and instilling a new principle of life to prepare us for God's Kingdom. As our High Priest, He labors to make us holy in our actions and reactions, enabling a godly witness before men. Works during sanctification are not mere talk or study but require action. Jesus exhorts in John 14:15 that if we love Him, we must keep His commandments, showing consistent effort in obedience. The fruit of these works, enabled by God, serves as evidence of conversion, as Jesus states in Matthew 7:18-20 that by their fruits you will know them. Where holy living is absent, the Holy Spirit is not present, confirming that works are the sure sign of being called by God. God requires these works, and they please Him, as Hebrews 13:16 reminds us to do good and share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. Though imperfect, our efforts are seen by Him with consideration of our motives, much like parents view their children's attempts. Sanctification's works produce holiness, necessary to avoid being unfit for God's Kingdom, where only holy people will dwell. The lack of works signifies a dead faith, as James 2:17, 20, 26 declares, and without evidence of preparation, God will not grant salvation. Sanctification, therefore, is essential as a witness to a Christian's character before the judgment seat of Christ. Ephesians 4 further clarifies our responsibilities, urging us to live in a manner worthy of our high calling through specific works like speaking truth, controlling temper, and being honest, all to glorify God and grow in His image. Through sanctification, constant use of prayer and Bible study, combined with obedience, is vital. Without these, no progress in grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ is possible, as they connect us to the Source of power needed to perform the works God has ordained. Neglecting these efforts risks being cast into outer darkness, as warned in Matthew 25:24-30.

The necessity of good works is evident in the struggle against sin, a pervasive force that engulfs humanity. Each individual must personally confront and strive to overcome sin, as it cannot be halted by another's efforts. Overcoming sin requires a close relationship with God, for only through His enabling power can one succeed in this battle. The call to action is clear when one becomes deeply aware of sin's reality within and desires to address it. This awareness prompts the question of what must be done, implying a need for active effort. God's Word frequently appeals to disciples to keep His commandments, which involves work. The Bible repeatedly states that we will be judged or rewarded according to our works, affirming their importance in the spiritual journey. While justification opens the door to God's presence through Christ's imputed righteousness, sanctification involves the personal labor of becoming inwardly righteous. In sanctification, our works are of vast importance, demanding sacrifice, striving, labor, prayer, and a continuous fight against sin to become fit to dwell in God's Kingdom. Both justification and sanctification are essential, proceeding from God's freely given grace, yet it is through our active participation in good works that we grow in holiness during sanctification.