Keraia
James 2

James 2:24

Faith and Works · James 2:14–26
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Translations

Modern
As you can see, a man is justified by his deeds and not by faith alone.
Traditional
Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Literal
You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone.
Latin
Videtis quoniam ex operibus justificatur homo, et non ex fide tantum?

Interlinear

Greek
English
As you can see, a man is justified by his deeds and not by faith alone.

Notes

James 2:24

Not by faith alone: This means that true faith is not like demons who simply believe something is true (2:19). But it is through a belief that leads to generous actions like God himself does (1:17). Some think this teaching contradicts Paul, but it does not. Paul does not oppose good deeds, but he warns against seeking forgiveness of sins through them (Romans 3:28; Galatians 2:16). Paul understands that it is necessary for true faith to leads to love and generosity (Galatians 5:6). In a similar way, James knows that a commitment to God comes from true faith and good deeds come only from true faith (James 2:18, 26).

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).

Parallels

Galatians 3:1–9

Glossary

Biblical Concept of Law Letter of James Mercy Obedience

Topics

Abraham: Faith of Being Obedient Being Prepared Being Saved Faith without Works Faith: General Scriptures Concerning Faith: True, Evidenced by Its Fruits Hypocrisy: General Scriptures Concerning Justification by Faith Justification by Faith Alone Religion: True Righteousness: Fruits of Those Who Don't Believe