Is works religion common in Christianity today?
Yes, works religion is widespread in Christianity today. The context states Christianity is inundated with works religion in various subtle forms. Adding anything to the gospel of grace turns it into a works religion, which cannot be grace. Salvation must be by faith alone.
Les teaches that Paul emphasized salvation is faith plus nothing, or it is no salvation at all. As soon as something, even small, is attached to the gospel of grace, it becomes a works religion. Les explains that Christianity today is just inundated with works religion, and it can come in various forms; it is so subtle. He shares an example of a lady drawn into New Age phenomena, but all of it is based on works, and when it is works it cannot be grace. So whether Jew or Gentile, if it is works, it is not grace; we must come God's way by faith, and faith alone.