Something from ... Augustine on the source of good works

Something from Augustine on the source of good works.  Augustine highlights first that we are saved by faith alone.  However, faith is never alone.  From faith (that is, the new life which the Holy Spirit works in us) comes the fruits of faith, which are good works.  If, however, the good works flow from faith, and if faith is a gift of God, then even our works are God's doing within us.

“Not that he denied good works, or emptied them of their value, when he says that God renders to every man according to his works; Romans 2:6 but because works proceed from faith, and not faith from works.  Therefore it is from Him that we have works of righteousness, from whom comes also faith itself, concerning which it is written, The just shall live by faith. Habakkuk 2:4” (Augustine, Selections from “On Grace and Free Will,” chapter 17)

Good works are not evil; they are good.  But the merits of salvation come from Christ alone.  He is our Savior.  He saves us completely.  Once saved, good works flow forth.  For, those who are alive in faith must live.  That life is made evident by our good works.  And those works are rendered good only through faith in Christ.