When we look at our good works as part of examining ourselves, we are not trusting in ourselves or our "goodness" as the grounds of our salvation, but as an assurance of our salvation. This is because good works are necessary, yet possible only by the saving grace of God having already been given to us through Jesus Christ. It is in and by Christ, as one who is saved by His sacrifice, that a Christian does good works for God's glory. Such good works flow only from those who have already been regenerated by the Holy Spirit. It is a dangerous error within certain churches today, sometimes seen especially in Reformed churches today, that tell you to never examine yourself and your works to determine whether you are saved or not, justified in Christ or not. Their fear seems to be that this will somehow confuse grace and works, and will make people think that we are justified by our works in a meritorious manner. But the Bible speaks very strongly about the necessity of good...
Thoughts on the Reformed faith, preparation for ministry, and doing all to the glory of God.