He exhorted the believers to practice good works. The first judgment is based upon faith and faith alone. Good works are not for the forgiveness of sins, grace, or justification. We obtain these through faith in Jesus Christ. If you have faith in Jesus Christ you are saved.
Good works are meritorious for other spiritual rewards.
Each shall receive his wages according to his labor. I, like many others, believe that there will be distinctions in the glory of the saints. I encourage my Christian friends to pray for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit so that we might be strengthened and produce a life of good works. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.