Notes Toward a Theology of Works

Discussions of the place of good works (erga) in the Christian life often focus on Pauline sources. Johannine texts are equally important, and there are few passages richer in resources for a theology of works (perhaps a theology of human action) than the letters to the churches of Asia (Revelation 2–3). A few notes to begin:

1) Deeds are linked with toil, perseverance, and intolerance of evil. Good deeds means testing and discerning the claims of false apostles (2:2).

2) We can fall from deeds, and then we need to repent and return to the works we used to do before Jesus comes to remove the lampstand (2:5).

3) Some deeds should be hated. Jesus Himself hates the deeds of the Nicolaitans (2:6).

4) Works are linked with love, faith, service, and perseverance (2:19). Perhaps we can make this connection, among others: Our love and faith are expressed in works of service.

5) Works can become greater over time (2:19).

6) If we abandon good works, we may suffer tribulation that is designed to drive us to repentance (2:22).

7) Jesus rewards everyone according to what they do (2:23; a constant refrain late in Revelation—18:6; 20:12–13; 22:12).

8) Works are linked with victory. We need to keep doing good works to the end. Jesus promises authority to those who persevere in doing good works (2:26).

9) Works, it appears, can be hypocritical—they can foster an undeserved reputation for vibrant life. But Jesus sees through the mask and knows the deeds that we actually do (3:1).

10) Deeds need to be completed, brought to their fruition. We can become lazy, sleepy, and near death, and then we need to be startled from slumber (3:2).

11) Jesus rewards good works by opening doors. Even those who act in weakness, with only a little power, but who keep His word and name, will have fresh opportunities for mission and service (3:8).

12) Deeds can be hot, cold, or lukewarm. Jesus prefers either of the first two to the last (3:15).

Note, in closing, that ergon is used 12 times in the letters to the churches. Doing good deeds, hating evil deeds, repenting of hypocritical works—these are the marks of being true Israelites.