The Difference Between Works (Signs) And Works (Righteousness)

I realized that some were yet ignorant of the difference between the two, hence deemed it necessary to clarify the difference.

Works (signs) are what Jesus said would follow those who believe in Him.

Mark 16:17-18 (KJV)

And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;
They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

Works (righteousness) are those which are done in obedience of the God's Word, for instance, giving alms to the poor and needy, not committing adultery, not stealing, not bearing false witness, praying for one's enemies, blessing those that curse you, etc.

So one (signs) is a gift God gives to men, while the other one (righteousness) is what men give to God.

It was the works (signs)which is a gift from God that Jesus spoke about in the following instance:

Matthew 7:22 (KJV)

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

This works (signs) is what some confuse for works of righteousness, but it wasn't works of righteousness, but works (signs) which Jesus said would be done in His name. That's why Jesus yet called them workers of iniquity because the works they did weren't works of righteousness but signs done in His name.

And God wouldn't accept anyone for what He gave to them as such works (signs), but what man gives to God even the works of righteousness.

Hence they were rejected because they didn't have the works of righteousness God required of them, being workers of iniquity despite the works (signs) that followed them.

That's why it's dangerous for man to depend on what God gives to him as such works (signs), but what he could give to God such as the works of righteousness and obedience of His Words which God requires of him.

That's why it's dangerous for one's faith in Jesus not to be hinged on the obedience of His Words.

It's like building a house on sand! Matthew 7:26-27

God bless.

It's a shame that some still don't know the difference.

Today's Christians tend to follow prophets and miracle workers.

The righteousness series continues shortly...