[Alamo-Girl]

Er, if I may, I suspect one of the biggest differences between beliefs on faith and works is that those on one side (Catholic, etc.) believe that the Christian gets (salvific) credit for his works - whereas those on the other side (Calvinists, etc.) say that all the credit for good works accomplished through them goes to God, i.e. not capable of good.

In both views, faith and works are seen together (good tree/good fruit - Matt).

That is not to raise election or predestination v free will - but rather, who or Who is responsible for the good that is done in the life of a Christian?

I take the latter view all credit goes to God because apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15).

[Dr. Eckleburg]

Amen.

"For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. " -- Philippians 2:13

[Mad Dawg]

Would you please comment on this statement of mine:

The works are a gift. The merit is a gift. It is all gift.

[Forest Keeper]

That is not to raise election or predestination v free will - but rather, who or Who is responsible for the good that is done in the life of a Christian? I take the latter view all credit goes to God because apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15).

Amen, and thanks for the ping. I actually would go so far as to say this is related to election. My understanding of Roman Catholicism is that men make the final free will decision on accepting Christ [who], whereas Calvinists believe that God has already made the final decision on His elect [Who].