James 2:21

Translations

Modern

Was not our father Abraham justified by what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?

Traditional

Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?

Literal

Was not Abraham our father justified by works, having offered his son Isaac upon the altar?

Latin

Abraham pater noster nonne ex operibus justificatus est, offerens Isaac filium suum super altare?

Original

Greek

English

Was not our father Abraham justified by what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?

Notes

James 2:20–26

James shows through Scripture that true faith is shown through actions.

James 2:14–26

James explains why Christians should care about how God will judge their actions (2:12–13): Good deeds must accompany true faith (see 1:22–25).

Theme notes and profiles

Abraham James, Brother of Jesus “Belief” in the Gospel of John By Faith Faith and Good Deeds Social Justice The Holiness of God’s People

Related verses

Genesis 22:16–18
…saying, “By Myself I have sworn, declares the LORD, that because you have done this and have not withheld your only son,
Genesis 22:9–12
When they arrived at the place God had designated, Abraham built the altar there and arranged the wood. He bound his son Isaac and placed him on the altar, atop the wood.
John 8:39
“Abraham is our father,” they replied. “If you were children of Abraham,” said Jesus, “you would do the works of Abraham.
Matthew 12:37
For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”
Romans 4:16
Therefore, the promise comes by faith, so that it may rest on grace and may be guaranteed to all Abraham’s offspring—not only to those who are of the law, but also to those who are of the faith of Abraham. He is the father of us all.
Romans 3:20
Therefore no one will be justified in His sight by works of the law. For the law merely brings awareness of sin.
John 8:53
Are You greater than our father Abraham? He died, as did the prophets. Who do You claim to be?”
Matthew 25:31–40
When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, He will sit on His glorious throne.
Psalm 143:2
Do not bring Your servant into judgment, for no one alive is righteous before You.
Romans 4:1
What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, has discovered?
Acts 7:2
And Stephen declared: “Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran,
James 2:24
As you can see, a man is justified by his deeds and not by faith alone.

Parallels

Galatians 3:1–9

People

Abraham: Patriarch, chosen by God to father His people Isaac: Son of Abraham; father of Jacob and Esau

Glossary

Biblical Concept of Law Letter of James Mercy Obedience

Topics

Abraham: Faith of Abraham: Trial of his Faith in the offering of Isaac Faith: General Scriptures Concerning Faith: True, Evidenced by Its Fruits Hypocrisy: General Scriptures Concerning Isaac: The Miraculous Son of Abraham: Offered in Sacrifice by his Father Justification: General Scriptures Concerning Obedience: Abraham Religion: True Righteousness: Fruits of

James 2:21

Translations?

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