What role does faith play in performing good works, according to the text?

In the context of the material from Chapell and Meeks, the idea is that good works, when performed without faith, lack the foundational spiritual intent that aligns with the teachings of Christianity. The belief that good works are considered sinful when separated from faith highlights the importance of the motivation behind an action rather than just the action itself.

Performing good works is not just about the act but also about the heart and faith that underpin those actions. The text underscores that genuine faith inspires and empowers an individual to undertake good works in a manner that reflects one's beliefs and relationship with God. Thus, actions devoid of such faith can be seen as misaligned with the true purpose of good works, which should stem from a place of faith and integrity in alignment with Christian values.