I'm not saying these works are separate from faith. I don't believe in good deeds independent of faith, they are a derivative of faith. I apologize if it came out that way. I believe in faith that produces good deeds. I agree with "Salvation is by faith and faith alone." As long as that faith produces good works. If we had to choose between two applicants for an open pastor position: One applicant said he had faith and the second said he had faith too. Both applicants professed the same Nicene creed. Now you review their resume and work experience. One applicant has nothing on it, all he does is watch netflix all day. The second applicant's resume shows obedience to the Law, experience assisting orphans and widows, and avoiding the contamination of the world. I think we know who's going to get the position.

If you think the thief's salvation was a joke, then you'll find the prostitute Rahab's salvation hilarious. She was saved for showing hospitality and welcoming guests. And she was a whore, fornicating for pay.

The thief didn't have a lot of time to do too many good works after his repentance from his sins and his confession of faith, he was basically on his deathbed.

The Prodigal Son is the one that left his destiny uncertain when he left home, the elder son was reprimanded, but his seemed assured.

Faith is the sword of salvation and deeds are the fire that refines and sharpens the sword. Of what use is a dull sword ? Similarly, If I plant a tree and it gives me no fruit, of what use is this tree ?

Salvation by faith. Faith that produces good deeds. Pretty much the Book of James:

"For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:

For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.

But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed."