Some people, who misunderstand the teaching of the Church, think that Catholics believe they’re “saved by doing good works,” which amounts to earning heaven by our own efforts. Beginning from that position, they promote the idea that Catholics are not Christian, which, of course, is false. Living as a Catholic is all about faith in Christ our Lord. Others think that good works play no role at all, and insist we’re saved by faith alone.

Can we be saved by faith alone? On the other hand, are both faith and works important in terms of salvation? Finally, what does the Church actually teach and what does the Bible have to say about it?

Objective: In this course, students will learn what the Church and Sacred Scripture say on how we become saved and be able to explain what Sts. Paul and James say on the topic. 

You’re joining our global classroom. Thousands of students from all over the world, each with their own unique story, learn at their own pace on Catholic Online School every single day.

Free Resources and tools for students, parents, and teachers. We’re working hard to ensure that Catholic Online School empowers teachers of all kinds to better understand what their children or students are up to and how best to help them. 

For free. For everyone. Forever.

With God, you can learn anything

Course curriculum

  • 01

    Defending the Faith - Faith and Works

    • Introduction

    • Resources for Students, Parents, and Teachers

    • Faith and Works - LESSON PLAN / STUDY GUIDE

    • Defending the Faith - Faith and Works Live Lesson Recording with Deacon Frederick Bartels (4/16/21)

    • Faith and Works - QUIZ

Instructor(s)

Instructor Bio:

Deacon Frederick Bartels is a member of the Catholic clergy who serves the Church in the diocese of Pueblo, CO. He received an MA in Theology and Educational Ministry from Catholic Distance University, where he is currently employed as an adjunct professor of theology. He is founder and editor of Joy In Truth (joyintruth.com), an online magazine dedicated to the New Evangelization. As a Catholic educator, public speaker and evangelist, Deacon Bartels strives to infuse culture with the saving principles of the gospel. He lives in Colorado with his wife, Shelly, and the youngest two of their six children. Professor Bartels is Chairman of the Theology Department.

Deacon Frederick Bartels

Professor of Theology, Department Chair