Charles Finney addresses the dangers of Antinomianism and legalism in his sermon 'Letters on Revival--No. 4,' emphasizing that both extremes deviate from true Christianity. He explains that Antinomians, having rejected self-righteous efforts, often fall into spiritual indolence, mistaking passive faith for true faith, which should be active and energizing. Finney argues that true faith is characterized by a deep sympathy with Christ and a commitment to benevolence, leading to active participation in the mission of the church. He warns against following mere feelings instead of being guided by the Word of God, urging believers to find balance in their spiritual lives. Ultimately, he calls for a revival that embodies the true spirit of Christianity, avoiding both extremes.

John Gill preaches on Romans 3:31, emphasizing that faith does not nullify the law but rather establishes it. He addresses concerns that the doctrine of grace leads to moral laxity, arguing instead that true faith results in obedience to God's law. Gill explains that justification comes through the righteousness of Christ, which fulfills the law's demands, and that believers are called to live in accordance with this law, empowered by grace. He asserts that the moral law remains relevant and is upheld by the gospel, which provides the means for true obedience. Ultimately, Gill encourages Christians to embrace the law as a guide for righteous living, demonstrating their faith through good works.

John Wesley emphasizes that faith does not nullify the law but rather establishes it, as articulated by St. Paul in Romans 3:31. He argues that while justification comes through faith alone, it does not exempt believers from the moral law, which remains essential for guiding righteous living. Wesley warns against the common misconception that faith diminishes the necessity of holiness, urging believers to maintain a diligent and obedient life in accordance with God's commands. He highlights the dangers of practical antinomianism, where individuals live as if grace allows for sin, and calls for a return to the conviction and zeal that characterized their earlier faith. Ultimately, Wesley encourages believers to examine their lives and ensure that their faith is accompanied by works that reflect their commitment to God's law.

J.C. Ryle warns visible churches about the importance of genuine faith and the dangers of complacency in religious practices. He emphasizes that the letters to the seven churches in Revelation focus on doctrine, personal faith, and the necessity of overcoming sin rather than church governance or rituals. Ryle urges believers to recognize that true Christianity is a personal relationship with Christ, marked by repentance and active faith, rather than mere membership in a church. He highlights that Jesus knows our works and will reward the faithful while warning against hypocrisy and complacency. The sermon calls for a deeper commitment to spiritual growth and a life that reflects true Christian values.

A.W. Pink explores the doctrine of justification, emphasizing the apparent contradiction between Paul's assertion that justification is by faith alone and James' claim that works are necessary for justification. Pink clarifies that Paul speaks of justification before God, while James addresses the evidence of faith before men, asserting that genuine faith is always accompanied by good works. He warns against the danger of empty professions of faith that lack spiritual fruit, illustrating that true faith manifests in love and obedience. The sermon highlights the inseparable relationship between justification and sanctification, urging believers to demonstrate their faith through their actions.

A.W. Pink emphasizes the delicate balance between faith and good works, warning against the extremes of undervaluing good works or attributing salvation to them. He illustrates how theological errors arise when one aspect of truth is emphasized at the expense of another, leading to a distorted understanding of God's sovereignty and human responsibility. Pink argues that good works are essential not as a means of justification but as a necessary expression of genuine faith, glorifying God and evidencing true belief. He calls for preachers to faithfully teach the full counsel of God, affirming the importance of good works in the life of a believer. Ultimately, Pink stresses that good works are a reflection of a believer's relationship with God and are vital for spiritual growth and testimony.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes that good works are the evidence of true salvation, urging believers to maintain them as a reflection of their faith in God. He explains that while salvation is not earned through works, genuine faith naturally produces good deeds as a response to God's grace. Tozer highlights the importance of affirming this truth constantly, as it is foundational to the Christian life. He warns against the extremes of neglecting good works or believing they are a means to salvation, asserting that true believers will be known by their actions. Ultimately, Tozer calls Christians to actively engage in good works as a demonstration of their faith and love for God.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes that vital faith is demonstrated through changed living, distinguishing between mere religious activity and genuine moral action. He argues that true faith involves not just accepting Christ as Savior but also submitting to His Lordship, which requires a complete surrender to God and obedience to His will. Tozer warns against the dangers of passive listening to the gospel, which can lead to spiritual stagnation and a lack of meaningful progress in one's faith. He calls for a restoration of the understanding that salvation entails a transformative response to the Christian message, centered on the cross of Christ. Ultimately, he stresses that the purpose of Bible teaching is to inspire moral and spiritual change in believers' lives.

A.W. Pink emphasizes the critical balance between faith and good works in the Christian life, warning against the extremes of undervaluing good works or attributing justification to them. He argues that while salvation is by grace through faith, good works are essential as evidence of genuine faith and obedience to God's commands. Pink highlights that the Scriptures teach the necessity, design, and true nature of good works, which should glorify God and reflect the believer's transformation in Christ. He calls for preachers to faithfully proclaim the importance of good works alongside the doctrine of grace, ensuring that believers understand their role in the Christian walk. Ultimately, Pink asserts that true profit from the Word of God leads to a life characterized by good works, which are vital for glorifying God and fulfilling the believer's purpose.

John Wesley emphasizes the critical distinction between mere verbal profession of faith and the genuine practice of God's will, warning that not all who call upon the Lord will enter the kingdom of heaven. He illustrates this through the parable of the wise and foolish builders, urging believers to build their lives on the solid foundation of Christ and His teachings rather than on superficial religious acts. Wesley stresses that true faith must be accompanied by works that reflect a transformed heart, as mere outward actions without inner righteousness are insufficient for salvation. He calls for self-examination to ensure one's hope is built on Christ alone, encouraging a deep, heartfelt relationship with God that manifests in love and obedience. Ultimately, Wesley reassures that those who truly follow God's will shall stand firm against life's storms and inherit eternal life.

Octavius Winslow emphasizes the necessity of human effort in conjunction with divine blessing, illustrating that while God provides the power, we must actively engage in the means He has ordained. He uses the metaphor of digging ditches to represent our spiritual preparation through prayer, study of the Word, and participation in the community of faith. Winslow encourages believers to recognize their role in seeking God's grace, particularly through trials and afflictions, which can deepen our reliance on Him. The sermon highlights that our spiritual vitality is directly linked to our active pursuit of God and His means of grace. Ultimately, the message is one of hope, urging believers to expect and ask for God's abundant blessings.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes the inseparable connection between faith and works, arguing that true faith in Christ should naturally lead to moral conduct and holiness. He critiques the modern tendency to view faith as an alternative to action, warning that this mindset has diminished the church's moral standards and led believers astray. Tozer asserts that just as God maintained His holiness in the incarnation, He continues to work within believers to express His moral perfection through their actions. He calls for a return to the understanding that faith must manifest in good works, rather than being seen as a standalone concept.

Charles Finney emphasizes that justification is a royal pardon granted by God, not based on our works but through faith in Jesus Christ. He explains that legal justification declares one 'not guilty,' while gospel justification offers pardon and acceptance, treating the sinner as righteous despite their past transgressions. Finney argues that excuses such as sinful nature or inability to obey are insufficient for justification, as true justification requires repentance and faith that produces holiness. He highlights that justification restores the believer to a relationship with God, akin to a child being welcomed back into a royal family. Ultimately, Finney reassures that through faith, believers are supported by God's attributes and grace, ensuring their salvation.

Shane Idleman emphasizes the critical relationship between faith and works in his sermon 'Faith Without Works Is Dead,' drawing from James chapter 2. He explains that genuine faith naturally produces good works, and without such works, faith is essentially dead. Idleman reflects on the historical context of Martin Luther's challenges to the Catholic Church's works-based salvation, asserting that true faith is evidenced by actions that reflect a relationship with God. He encourages believers to examine their lives for genuine fruit and to engage in acts of love and service, particularly towards those in need, as a demonstration of their faith. Ultimately, he calls for a balance between faith and works, reminding the congregation that both are essential for a vibrant Christian life.

Dennis Kinlaw emphasizes the profound relationship between faith and action through the story of Abraham, illustrating that true faith is demonstrated by deeds. He highlights that Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac was not just a test of faith but a revelation of his deep trust in God, who ultimately desires a relationship with us rather than mere rituals. Kinlaw argues that faith must be active and transformative, leading to a life committed to God's purposes, and that God desires to use us in time and space, not just for eternal promises. The sermon concludes with a call to embody our faith in tangible ways, reflecting God's provision and love in our lives.

Brian Guerin emphasizes the necessity of being doers of the Word, explaining that the Word of God is a seed that requires time, consistency, and the presence of the Holy Spirit to bear fruit in our lives. He highlights that faith comes by hearing the Word, but it must be accompanied by action to be effective; without works, faith is dead. Guerin warns against the distractions of worldly cares and the importance of maintaining a deep relationship with God to ensure that the Word takes root in our hearts. He encourages believers to hold fast to the Word, allowing it to transform their lives and produce lasting fruit. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to live out the Word actively, as it is essential for spiritual growth and maturity.

Theodore Epp emphasizes that faith must be accompanied by action, as outlined in James 2:14-26. He argues that mere intellectual belief in God is insufficient; true faith is demonstrated through works that reflect a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Epp highlights that James warns against a faith that only speaks without acting, stressing that genuine faith results in a transformed life and behavior. The sermon underscores the importance of being justified before others through visible acts of faith, as faith without works is deemed dead. Ultimately, Epp calls for believers to live out their faith actively, aligning their actions with their professed beliefs.

Shane Idleman addresses the contentious question of whether one can lose their salvation, emphasizing the importance of understanding scripture in context and the need for unity among believers despite differing views. He highlights that while there are warnings in the Bible, true believers are secure in their salvation as it is ultimately God's work to hold them. Idleman encourages the congregation to examine their faith and the fruit of their lives, asserting that genuine faith will produce a desire to live for God. He concludes by reminding everyone that God is the one who holds us together, and that our relationship with Him should inspire heartfelt worship.

A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true faith is not a replacement for moral conduct but rather a catalyst for it. He illustrates that just as a tree exists to produce fruit, faith should lead to Christlike actions. Tozer warns against the dangerous misconception that faith can exist without corresponding works, which has resulted in a distorted Christian life. He likens this error to a flawed foundation in construction, leading to unsightly and unstable spiritual structures. Ultimately, he reminds us that we will be held accountable for how we live out our faith in action.