Good Works and a Clean Conscience

In this episode titled “Good Works and a Clean Conscience,” host Victor Vigorito addresses the question of whether unbelievers can perform good works. He begins by emphasizing that the foundation of all good works is the work of Christ. Without trusting in Christ’s finished work, individuals cannot produce genuine good works. Vigorito cites Hebrews 9, which discusses the need to repent of “dead works” in order to serve the living God, highlighting that true worship cannot occur if one’s conscience is defiled by self-idolatry. He also references Romans 1, which describes a negative exchange where individuals worshiped the creature rather than the Creator, indicating that this exchange reflects a life of idolatry that needs to be repented of once one gives their life to Christ. The act of repentance involves acknowledging past idols and the unregenerate life tied to self-idolatry. Vigorito further explains that upon being born again, believers are inclined to please God and are able to produce good and holy works that are acceptable to Him. He challenges listeners to evaluate their reasons for attending church, warning against the anthropocentric focus of attending to simply become a better person. Instead, he emphasizes that the ultimate goal should be to worship God sincerely. He argues that if church attendance is motivated by self-improvement rather than worship, it leads to a distorted view of good works, which become self-centered. Vigorito warns that a focus on self will lead to churches and services that cater to individual feelings rather than glorifying God. He stresses the importance of worshiping God in spirit and truth, as this true focus will naturally lead to personal transformation. Concluding, Victor Vigorito points out that the foundation for good works is genuine worship of God, and he invites listeners to repent of their dead works, placing their faith solely in Christ’s finished work.