#STRask Can a Person Be Saved but Have Nothing to Show for It?
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Apr 23, 2026 A discussion about whether 1 Corinthians 3:15 allows someone to be saved yet have little to show for it in their life. They compare Paul and James on faith and works, and unpack John 15’s promise about abiding and bearing fruit. They talk through struggles with ongoing sin, late repentance, and practical ways to grow trust, humility, and compassion.
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James Distinguishes Genuine Faith From Mere Profession
- James addresses false profession of faith by comparing two people: one who claims faith but shows no outward transformation and one whose faith is demonstrated by actions.
- Greg Koukl explains James uses "justification" as proving faith, not Paul's forensic imputation, citing Abraham examples in Genesis 15 and 20.
Building After Salvation Determines Enduring Reward
- 1 Corinthians 3 speaks about building on the foundation of salvation and testing works by fire, distinguishing durable spiritual fruit from worthless pursuits.
- Greg uses the wood/hay/stubble versus gold/silver metaphor and links it to rewards (bema) and 1 Timothy on godliness' lasting gain.
Late Conversions May Leave Little Fruit
- Greg Koukl shares personal illustrations: his father became a Christian shortly before death and Tim's grandfather converted on his deathbed, illustrating minimal time to grow in godliness.
- He describes them as entering "naked and smelling of smoke," bringing little enduring fruit.
