James Bible StudySample

James 1:19-2:26 Faith without works is useless!

“What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?” James 2:14 (NIV)

“…faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” James 2:17 (NIV)

Background

Today's video, "Justified by Faith Alone?", wrestles with the apparent contradiction between Paul’s message of justification by faith apart from works of the law (Romans 3:28) and James’ teaching on the necessity of works accompanying a person’s faith (James 2:14-26).

Observation

James 1:19-2:26 reiterates the idea that genuine faith is expressed in good deeds in several ways: (1) he calls for a human response to God’s implanted word (1:21); (2) he illustrates the foolishness of a person who listens to the word but does not do what it says (1:22-25); (3) he identifies pure religion as caring for the needy and resisting the world’s corruption (1:26-27); and (4) he declares faith without works is useless and dead, providing several examples to explain what he means (2:14-26).

Interpretation

In yesterday’s study guide, we discussed the hardship faced by James’ readers, who are Jewish believers scattered due to persecution. This is an important context to remember as you read today’s passage. Perhaps as a means of coping through their time of trial, they began to rationalize the neglect of practical expressions of faith. However, James is adamant (and Paul is too - check out Galatians 6:7-10!) - a faith that really trusts in God alone for salvation is always demonstrated through a person’s actions. Works are an essential fruit of faith!

Application

Take a look at your own life. Do you tend to focus more on “faith” as a system of beliefs you hold, or on “practical expressions" of that faith? What might someone looking at you from the outside conclude is your focus? Is God bringing a specific action to your mind, which can work together with your faith this week?