Good works are a symptom of Salvation.
When Jesus left the Earth, he commanded those around him to do things on Earth. He didn’t tell them to wait for Heaven.
One of the major reasons “Christians” quit going to church is because the “Christian” has either created God in his own image (an image not matched by any church) Or the “Christian” is unable to practice grace themselves.
“Good works are a symptom of Salvation.”
True. But I would add that unsaved people do works that can be considered ‘good’ as from time to time as well.
The difference, I think, is motivation and who gets the glory.
At any rate, I know what you mean and I know you are right.