Faith Without Work is dead (James 2:14-26)

There is a teaching in the book of James that everyone who has faith in Jesus Christ should consider and apply to their lives. In the above reference we read:

“In the same way, faith by itself is dead if it doesn’t cause you to do any good things” –James 2:17 GWT

“In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” NIV

“So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.” NLT

Please note that this doctrine does not say we are saved by works, but teaches that rewards are only meant for those who work and work is the proof of faith. Jesus said, “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” Rev. 22:12; Mat. 16:27

“For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.” Galatians 5:6

Reason to work and not just claim faith alone:

  1. It is a command – 1 Tim. 6:16
  2. It pleases God – Heb. 13:16
  3. We are known and our faith is shown by our action – 1 Pet. 2:12; James 2:18-19

Examples of works shown by people of faith:

  1. Going out of your way to meet people’s needs – Jesus’s teaching (Mt. 25:35-36).
  2. The man from Samaria – Luke 10:30-37
  3. Volunteering time, cash, materials and other helps for people – Dorcas (Acts 9:36)
  4. Participating in various services in God’s house / temple / church – (Neh. 13:14)
  5. Obedience – in various instances of the life of Abraham
  6. Encouraging people and helping to build up the body of Christ
  7. Filling in where you see a void
  8. Doing simple things that are good (clean the church, call members, etc)

“If it hath not works, is dead – The faith that does not produce works of charity and mercy is without the living principle which animates all true faith, that is, love to God and love to man…” Clarke’s commentary

“Faith that has no power to bring one to obedience and to sway the life is as worthless as good wishes which end in words.” – People’s NT commentary

“There is no way to show we really believe in Christ, but by being diligent in good works, from gospel motives, and for gospel purposes…” – Matthew Henry’s commentary

Work is the fruit of faith; if there is no work, there is no fruit; if there is no fruit, it is as good as having no faith.

Good works that are not grounded in the faith of Christ Jesus is useless, just as faith that has nothing to show for it is useless.

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