In his book The Good Works Reader (Eerdmans), theologian Thomas Oden draws on the writers of the early Christian church (along with biblical writings) to explore the issue of works in the Christian life. Recognizing the place of faith and works, Oden brings us these classic insights to remind us we are called to lives of holiness.
The author writes from the premise that grace, faith, and Scripture supercede good works. That is, our deeds are done in response to the gifts given to us by a holy God and the work of His Son that was done on the cross on our behalf.