Q. 62. But why cannot our good works be the whole or part of our righteousness before God?

Question. But why cannot our good works be the whole or part of our righteousness before God?

Answer. Because that the righteousness which can be approved before the tribunal of God, must be absolutely perfect, and in all respects conformable to the divine law (Gal. 3;10); and also, that our best works in this life are all imperfect and defiled with sin (Isa. 64;6).

Proofs.

[proof-1] Gal. 3;10.—Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.— Deut. 6;5.—James 2;10.
[proof-2] Isa. 64;6.—But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.— Phil. 3;12, 13.—James 3;2.