What does pistis (πίστις) mean in the Bible?

In Scripture, πίστις is more than mental agreement. It is trusting reliance upon God, confident dependence on His promise, and a receptive posture that clings to Him. In many contexts it also carries the sense of faithfulness flowing from that trust.

What does erga (ἔργα) mean in the Bible?

In Scripture, ἔργα refers to deeds or actions. Depending on the context, works can describe human effort relied upon for righteousness, obedience that flows from faith, or outward actions that reveal what is truly within.

What is the difference between pistis and erga?

pistis (πίστις) means "faith" while erga (ἔργα) means "works". Scripture often reveals meaning through contrast. This page places πίστις and ἔργα side by side to clarify the difference between trusting reception and human doing, while also showing how true faith and faithful action relate.

How do pistis and erga differ in source?

pistis: Trust in God's promise. erga: Human action and effort.

How do pistis and erga differ in core motion?

pistis: Receiving and relying. erga: Doing and producing.

How do pistis and erga differ in direction?

pistis: Toward dependence on God. erga: Toward expression, evidence, or self-reliance depending on context.

How do pistis and erga differ in human experience?

pistis: Humility, confidence, receptivity. erga: Activity, obedience, or boasting depending on motive.

How do pistis and erga differ in relation to justification?

pistis: Receives righteousness in Christ. erga: Cannot secure justification as merit.

How do pistis and erga differ in end?

pistis: Union with Christ and living trust. erga: Either dead self-reliance or living fruit, depending on source.

Faith vs Works — pistis vs erga