A. — For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. James ii, 26.
Q. 15. — What is the end of all commandments and what is its character?
A. — Now the end of a commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned. I Tim. i, 5.
Q. 16. — But if the heart is not righteous, faith is feigned; in such condition do we partake of such promises?
A. — Thou has neither part nor lot in this matter, for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart be forgiven thee. Acts viii, 21, 22.
Q. 17. — Holy Script bears witness that Simon, the sorcerer, also was converted?
A. — Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well; the devils also believe, and tremble. James ii, 19 and fol.
Q. 18. — Which faith abides before God in Christ?
A. — Even as Abraham believed God and it was reckoned to him for righteousness. Romans iv, 9.
Q. 19. — But what shall one do when he finds that he is still a sinner?
A. — The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent ye and believe the Gospel. St. Mark i, 15; Matth. iii, 2; Chap, iv, 17.
Q. 20. — What is promised to poor repentant sinners?
A. — For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. St. John iii, 16. Read also St. Luke xv; I Tim. i, 15; Luke xix, 10; Matth. xviii, 11; Matth. xi, 28, 29, 30.
Q. 21. — Are there in Holy Script other passages testifying that repentant sinners shall receive forgiveness of sins by believing in Christ Jesus?
A. — To Him give all the prophets witness, that through His name whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins. Acts x, 43.
