The Doctrine of Good Works: Reclaiming a Neglected Protestant Teaching - Paperback

by Thomas H. McCall (Author), Caleb T. Friedeman (Author), Matt T. Friedeman (Author)

Christianity Today 2024 Book Award (Academic Theology)

In Titus, Paul says Christ redeemed a people "zealous for good works." Despite this declaration and others like it, the doctrine of good works has fallen on hard times in contemporary Protestant theology and practice. At best, it's neglected--as in most systematic theologies and in too much church teaching. At worst, it's viewed with suspicion--as a threat to salvation by grace alone through faith alone.

In this important work addressing a significant gap in current theological literature, the authors argue that by jettisoning a doctrine of good works, the contemporary church contradicts historical Protestantism and, more importantly, biblical teaching. They combine their areas of expertise--exegesis, systematic and historical theology, and practical theology--to help readers recover and embrace a positive doctrine of good works. They survey historical Protestant teaching to show the importance of the doctrine to our forebears, engage the scriptural testimony on the role of good works, formulate a theology of salvation and good works, and explore pastoral applications.

Back Jacket

"This is Protestant theology at its very best"

Protestants often view the doctrine of good works with suspicion. This book shows how biblical exegesis, systematic and historical theology, and practical theology can together contribute to the recovery of a robust account of good works.

"A powerful and necessary intervention for an American church addicted to cheap grace. This is Protestant theology at its very best, because this is theology from and for the church. Every pastor and teacher should read this book."
--Keith L. Johnson, Wheaton College

"Good works are an often neglected or misunderstood scriptural theme. McCall, Friedeman, and Friedeman correct many misconceptions and set forth their own understanding in this important work. I am grateful for this contribution and hope it precipitates further conversation and study."
--Thomas Schreiner, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

"Unfortunately, in some Protestant circles since the Reformation, good works have undeservedly gotten a bad name. This book takes on numerous caricatures such as 'Good works have nothing to do with salvation' in a refreshing and detailed way, and the result is the best single study I know of on this subject. I highly recommend it."
--Ben Witherington III, Asbury Theological Seminary

"McCall, Friedeman, and Friedeman offer a gift to the church in this challenge to reclaim good works in the Protestant tradition. Ultimately, this book is a needed corrective to cognition-centered faith that may not actually be faith at all."
--Christa L. McKirland, Carey Baptist College; executive director of Logia International

"Saved by good works? Yes! Not only Catholics but also Protestants have traditionally taught this. This book contributes positively to the current theological conversation about how to best systematize what Scripture teaches about salvation. Highly recommended."
--Matthew W. Bates, Quincy University; author of Salvation by Allegiance Alone

Author Biography

Thomas H. McCall (PhD, Calvin Theological Seminary) is Timothy C. and Julie M. Tennent Professor of Theology at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky.

Caleb T. Friedeman (PhD, Wheaton College) is David A. Case Chair of Theology and Ministry and associate professor of New Testament at Ohio Christian University in Circleville, Ohio.

Matt T. Friedeman (PhD, University of Kansas) is John M. Case Chair of Evangelism and Discipleship at Wesley Biblical Seminary in Ridgeland, Mississippi.