More than Evidences
Bellarmine mixes what is false with the truth. True it is, that our Divines determine that that faith is not living which does not produce good works. But it is false that we require the presence of works only in this respect, that they may attest the truth of faith ; for we have hefore shewn that there are very many other purposes, which need not repetition here. It is true also, that our works have not any relation to salvation, as though they were merits, that is, under the aspect of a meritorious cause. But it is false, that we teach that works have no relation at all to salvation ; for they have that relation which there is, between the way appointed, and the end of the way itself. Again, it is true that we deny that good works are required as conditions of our salvation, if by good works we understand those which are entirely good, and such as fully answer to the demands of the Law; if also by conditions of salvation, we under stand those covenant conditions by which we are received into the favour of God, and to the right of eternal life : for these latter depend upon the sole condition of faith apprehending Christ the Mediator. But it is false that we deny that good works are required as conditions of salvation, if by good works we understand those fruits of inchoate righteousness which follow justification, and pre cede glorification as the way ordained thereto. It is more over false, that we deny good works to be the conditions of salvation, if by conditions nothing else is designed, than that duty which is enjoined upon those justified and to be saved, by means of which they must aim at salvation, not merit the attainment of salvation itself.
John Davenant, A Treatise on Justification: vol 1., trans. Josiah Allport (London: Hamilton, Adams, 1844-46), 304