Question:  Hi Greg,

            My question is what do you mean that the Catholic view of law plus grace is not biblical and leads to legalism?  Is the law you are referring to works?  From what you said “Catholics need to understand the doctrine of justification”.  I don’t see how the Catholic Church believes that we are saved by works (or church law) plus grace.

            Robert

Answer:  Dear Robert,

            It is my understanding that the Catholic Church officially teaches that humans are justified by faith, but that faith is demonstrated by works, and that works are part of justification.  I also know that every member of the Catholic Church does not agree with this teaching, and that many (like all churches) have their own personal relationship with Jesus Christ – a relationship that transcends our relationship with any earthly incorporated entity.  I know Catholics who believe that they are saved, period.  I also know Catholics who believe that they are saved AS LONG AS they do the works, traditions, teachings, and deeds that the Catholic Church would have them do.

            I believe that the Bible says that justification is by grace alone – period.  It is true that Christians who have been justified are obedient and will be “his workmanship” (Ephesians 2:10) but Christians are his workmanship AFTER THE FACT.  Our works have NOTHING TO DO with our salvation.

            Romans tells us that even Abraham was saved by faith.  His faith included works, but the works that he and all others who are saved by faith simply follow salvation – the works are not part of our salvation.  We humans have nothing to do with salvation, for we are not worthy.  God, who alone is worthy, makes us holy by imputing the righteousness of Jesus Christ to us – and having been pronounced holy, the Holy Spirit works within us, producing the fruit that is then part of our lives.

            We are not saved BY works; we are saved FOR works.  Salvation is by faith alone, by grace alone, by Jesus alone.  Not faith PLUS what we do.  Faith, grace, Jesus alone.

            Hope this helps.  May God be with you and bless you.

            In Christ,

            Greg Albrecht