But in salvation we get what Another paid for. Salvation can never be earned and neither is it granted in response to good works. It is by grace you are saved. Thus it is utter folly to speak in terms of anyone deserving heaven because of her life of good works. Not at all.
Good works have an essential place.
Works are essential to salvation as its fruit and not as its root. They are the essential, inevitable result, not the cause. Paul does not conclude his exposition of salvation by grace without adding an important word about good works. Those who receive salvation have been prepared by God for good works. Part of God's purpose in saving us is that we might perform good works which will bring Him glory.