For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. James 2:26 KJV
This statement from James, the brother of Jesus, cuts to the core of a controversy that exists in our understanding of Christian faith. Are we saved by faith or by works? Scripture teaches that our salvation comes by faith in the sacrifice made by Jesus Christ on the cross. Additionally, scripture teaches that faithful live in obedience to the will of God.
Our Lord warns us in Matthew 7:21-23, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven, but he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. Many will tell me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, didn’t we prophesy in your name, in your name cast out demons, and in your name do many mighty works?’ Then I will tell them, ‘I never knew you. Depart from me, you who work iniquity.’ WEB”
You Believe
Jesus clearly taught that saving faith leads the believer to obey the will of God. In this teaching, Christ too indicates that faith without works is dead. It is possible to believe that God exists and still live lives of rebellion to his word and will. Scripture makes this point clear in James 2:19 which says “You believe that God is one. You do well. The demons also believe, and shudder. WEB”
The doctrine of salvation through faith is true. However, as James points out, faith without works is dead. Although our works do not save us from sin, our actions are the evidence of our faith and obedience to God or they are the evidence of our continued rebellion against him.
Obey God
Christ calls sinners to repentance. Following repentance, the Lord instructs the forgiven to remain free from sin. As he says to the woman caught in an adulterous relationship, “Go, and sin no more.” Beyond our rejection of sin, Christ commands us to love one another.
Examples of the love commanded by Christ are recorded in Matthew 25:31 which reads, “for I was hungry and you gave me food to eat. I was thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you took me in. When I was naked, you clothed me. I was sick and you visited me. I was in prison and you came to me. WEB”
The apostle Paul helps to clarify this controversial issue. He writes in Ephesians 2:8-9, “for by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, that no one would boast. WEB” Salvation comes by faith. Our faith is demonstrated by obedience to the commands of God. s As James writes, “faith without works is dead.”
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the clarity of your holy word. Thank you for forgiving my sins. Help me to serve your purpose and to express my faith with loving actions. Guide me to live a life that is pleasing to you. In Jesus name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: That Which Is to Come
