The passage goes on to list further works done in the Christian s life. The Gospels also address this importance of works through Jesus parables and teachings. Luke 8 speaks of the seed that falls on rocky places. It is like the believer who starts out okay, but when tested falls away. In other words, their actions during the testing period determine their lack of faith.
Works precede faith.
Later in chapter 14, the costs of being a disciple are laid out. These include specific actions to be taken. If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters he cannot be my disciple. In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple. Here, Luke speaks of specific actions that determine faith.