So…I still don't exactly see where the debate is coming from.
I thought scripture (the most commonly cited being roman and James) made it pretty clear about this issue. That it was the faith that saved you, and the evidence of that faith is that it compels you to go out and do good works, as well as desiring other attitude factors (patience, mercy, etc: the fruits of the Holy Spirit).
I didn't think it could be more clear than that. Especially in the phraseology.
Because if you look at it, it's the only transcendental way for it to be organized.
If your works save you, then it is by your power that you attain salvation. Not just your agency, but your personal power over the world (and implied, yourself). It also implies there is a finite amount of work to be done or reached. Or that there is a finite amount necessary. Which also has it's own very obvious problems.
If you could identify that amount, you reach a point where the ideal zone to be in is in a "worked enough" state, then never ever do anything ever again around anybody, and then you won't ever sin and will no longer need to do works. As unintuitive as it sounds: basing it on works leads to a situation where you don't need to do works.
If faith does not lead to works, then people saying they have faith, then going on a wild sin spree, it doesn't matter. There is no reason to do anything good. Just do whatever zany or sinful shit you want and desire the most debaucherous things.
Essentially, it's the only real way to view it so that there is a very real and internal desire to help people or spread the Word. It's not because you are being promised something, but because it is the greatest possible thing. Fully transcendental, practical, personal, and endless. Endless in that since it's pouring out from you rather than a task or fine levied on you. Acts out of love.
I guess this is one of those things that I can't understand as a conflict since I assume everyone is approaching the issue out of good faith. Sure I could read some subtext in certain positions which would be beneficial to parties for more…nefarious purposes. But I hate the idea of ever accusing someone who also believes in the salvation through Christ, regardless of their denomination or how distant they think they are from me.