This section of Ephesians was interpreted by Martin Luther as meaning that works were not important as salvation is our as a pure gift from God; a gift earned for us by Jesus.
However, James in his letter, talks about the fact that faith and works are not at odds with each other, but are integrally connected.
We cannot earn heaven. This is fact.
If we could earn heaven, then it would not have been necessary for God to send us a Messiah, one who was both human and divine who would be able to redeem us, save us from our sins, and open the gates of heaven to those who believe.
How do we show that we believe?
Our works are our witness to our faith.
How do you know that others are who they say they are?
I know that I listen to what people say and watch what people do. When their actions match their words, then I know I can trust them.
I know people who claim to be good Christians who are some of the most prejudiced people I know. Their actions do not match their words.
I know other good church goers who see nothing wrong with checking out packages in the store and putting them back and take a fresh one. Then there are the people who buy clothes, wear them a few times and then return them and ask for their money back.
When we say that we have faith in Jesus and are following him, then our works should follow. We should be loving, not hateful; we should be working for justice, not approving discrimination, and honest in all our dealings with others.
This is what James meant, and this is in keeping with this passage. Our works will never earn us salvation, but it will let God know that we have accepted the gift.
