Section 24: Lord’s Day 24

But why cannot our good works be the whole, or part of our righteousness before God?

Because that the righteousness, which can be approved of before the tribunal of God, must be absolutely perfect, and in all respects conformable to the divine law:^a and also, that our best works in this life are all imperfect and defiled with sin.^b

1. a. Galatians 3:10; Deuteronomy 27:26

   Galatians 3:10

   Deuteronomy 27:26

   King James VersionBerean Standard Bible

2. b. Isaiah 64:6

   Isaiah 64:6

   King James VersionBerean Standard Bible

What! do not our good works merit, which yet God will reward in this and in a future life?

This reward is not of merit, but of grace.^a

1. a. Luke 17:10

   Luke 17:10

   King James VersionBerean Standard Bible

But doth not this doctrine make men careless and profane?

By no means: for it is impossible that those, who are implanted into Christ by a true faith, should not bring forth fruits of thankfulness.^a

1. a. Matthew 7:17–18; John 15:5

   Matthew 7:17–18

   John 15:5

   King James VersionBerean Standard Bible