22. What do we merit by the good works which we perform in the state of grace?
We merit, 1. An increase of sanctifying grace; and 2. Eternal salvation (2 Tim. iv. 8).
'If any one shall say that the justified man by the good works which he performs through the grace of God and the merit of Jesus Christ, whose living member he is, does not truly merit increase of grace and eternal life, let him be anathema' (Council of Trent, Sess. 6, Can. 32).
23. Whence do such good works derive their intrinsic value or meritoriousness?
From the infinite merits of Jesus Christ, whose living members we are through sanctifying grace.
'I am the vine, you are the branches: he that abideth in me, and I in him, the same beareth much fruit; for without me you can do nothing' (John xv. 5; comp. Council of Trent, Sess. 6, Ch. 16).
24. Is every Christian bound to do good works?
Yes; for ' every tree that doth not yield good fruit shall be cut down, and cast into the fire ' (Matt. iii. 10).
25. What good works should we perform before all others?
1. Those the performance of which is commanded to all Christians by the Commandments of God and of the Church; and 2. Those which are necessary or useful to fulfil the duties of our state of life.
26. What other good works are especially recommended to us in Holy Scripture?
Prayer, fasting, and alms; by which, in general, are understood the works of devotion, mortification, and charity.
'Prayer is good with fasting and alms, more than to lay up treasures of gold' (Tob. xii. 8).
27. What does God especially regard in our good works?
Our good intention, by which we may obtain from God great reward even for small works.
'Whosoever shall give to drink to one of these little ones a
