s wicked men possess,
but that confidence or trust, by which alarmed sinners are comforted
and lifted up. We, moreover, teach, that the performance of works is
necessary, because it is commanded of God, and not because we expect to
merit grace by them. Pardon of sins and grace are obtained only by
faith. And because the Holy Spirit is received by faith the heart of man
is renovated, and new affections produced, that he may be able to
perform good works. Accordingly, Ambrosius states, faith is the source
of holy volitions and an upright life. For the faculties of man, unaided
by the Holy Spirit, are replete with sinful propensities, and too feeble
to perform works that are good in the sight of God. They are moreover
under the influence of Satan, who urges men to various sins, and impious
opinions, and open crimes; as may be seen in the examples of the
philosophers who, though they endeavored to lead moral lives, failed to
accomplish their designs, and were guilty of many notorious crimes. Such
is the imbecility of man, when he undertakes to govern himself by his
own strength, without faith and the Holy Spirit.

From all this it is manifest, that our doctrine, instead of being
charged with prohibiting good works, ought much rather to be applauded,
for teaching the manner in which truly good works can be performed. For,
without faith, human nature is incapable of performing the duties either
of the first or second table. Without it, man does not call upon God,
nor expect any thing from him, nor bear the cross: but seeks refuge
amongst men, and reposes on human aid. Hence, when faith and confidence
in God are wanting, all evil desires and human schemes reign in the
heart; wherefore Christ also says, "without me ye can do nothing" (John
xv.); and the church responds, Without thy favor there is nothing good
in man.

ARTICLE XXI. - OF THE INVOCATION OF SAINTS.

Concerning the invocation of saints our churches teach, that the saints
ought to be held in remembrance, in order that we may, each in his own
calling, imitate their faith and good works; that the emperor may
imitate the example of David, in carrying on war to expel the Turks
from our country; for both are kings. But the sacred volume does not
teach us to invoke saints or to seek aid from them. For it proposes
Christ to us us our only mediator, propitiation, high priest, and
intercessor. On his name we are to call, and he promises, that he will
hear our prayers, and