Wow, there is still so much confusion today on how we obtain salvation. Good works done by me is not how we are approved or accepted by God. As stated in Matt 5: 16 we let the light of our good works shine before men because in our good works it brings Glory to God. In Hebrews 12:14 tells us to purse Peace and holiness without which no one will see God is talking about when you walk in Peace and holiness people see God in you. Our good works reveal God in us, but working for God for acceptance is just that, legalism and works. The only thing that pleases's God is faith. Faith in the finished work of Christ. Your salvation is a free gift that cannot be earned, it must be accepted by faith not earned by works. Galatians is a hard line lesson that Paul in exasperation came down hard on Christians who were going back to the works of the Law to be justified before God. He even goes on to say if you are trying to please God through Works, you put yourself under a curse!
Works are a fruit of the root of Righteousness in your life and are important, but to base your salvation on how hard you work for God, or deeds done for God, or laws you keep is dead works. Faith without works simply means, if you say you have faith, it should produce good works in our/ your lives..
Carnal christians can do much harm to the body of Christ, but their salvation is not based on their works, it is based on accepting the free gift of salvation offered to all men freely by God through Christ.
Many will stand at the Judgement seat of Christ and be saved, but the wood, hay and stubble of useless works means their ash pile will be bigger that yours. Anything done for God other than through faith is dead works! God loves you, accepts you, but your works cannot save you, if so, then you would have grounds for boasting.
Side note, if you want to lead a wearisome Christian life, get on the treadmill of works and you will be one miserable person. When is enough enough? Believe me, I have been there!