Translations
Modern
What good is it, my brothers, if someone claims to have faith, but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?
Traditional
What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?
Literal
What is the gain, my brothers, if anyone says to have faith, but has no works? Is the faith able to save him?
Latin
Quid proderit, fratres mei, si fidem quis dicat se habere, opera autem non habeat? numquid poterit fides salvare eum?
Original
Greek
English
What good is it, my brothers, if someone claims to have faith, but has no deeds? Can such faith save him?
Notes
If someone claims to have faith: James writes to Christians to urge them to actions that come from true faith. Paul teaches the same thing (see, for example, Galatians 5:6). But he often criticizes those who rely on actions to define their relationship with God (Romans 3:20, 28; 4:3–5; Galatians 2:16; 3:1–14).
Parallels
Glossary
Topics
Faith: General Scriptures Concerning Good Works in the Judgment, Will be an Evidence of Faith Hypocrisy: General Scriptures Concerning Liberality: Lack of a Proof of not Having Faith Religion: True Righteousness: Fruits of Vanity: Faith Without Works Is Works: Good in the Judgment, Will be an Evidence of Faith