If God were to save men on account of their works, then no one would be saved! Faith looks away from one’s own works to the saving works of Jesus’ perfect life of obedience and his atoning death upon the cross vindicated and approved by God at his resurrection. Each time we gather for worship, we confess our sin corporately and personally, then we are challenged to exercise faith in the gospel promises which are announced. We receive God’s forgiveness by faith, not by works.