Works and faith
Often, in today’s questioning world, the words of people are treated with scepticism, none more so, perhaps, - and I speak in generalisation - than with public figures. Thus there is a proliferation of examples where people are held to account for their actions, relative to their words. It is that accountability which James addresses in these verses - in the matter of faith.
James 2v14-17 14 What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? 15 Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to him, “Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
The relationship of works and faith is one which is still found in the church today. One of the greatest tragedies to be encountered in the life of a person is in the age-old understanding (or misunderstanding) of good deeds. The idea that certain things will add points to their account with God so that, when death comes, they will be received into heaven. The Scriptures teach us, however, that faith is not about good works or intentions! Paul is very clear in Ephesians 2v8-9 when he writes “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith–and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God–not by works, so that no one can boast”.
Is James, then, contradicting Paul in these verses? Actually, no, he is not! There is nothing in what James teaches which questions the saving value of faith. It is a criticism of “a faith” which does not produce good works! It gives the example of an impoverished person who will not benefit from sympathy alone - it requires action for needs to be met. We are therefore reminded that whilst we cannot work for our salvation, we are saved to work. And to put into action the words that we speak in our profession of faith. A genuine, saving faith will result in a changed life where supporting evidence matches our words. Thus, rather than works producing faith, it is about faith seen in works. All other expressions of faith are worthless, writes James. We pray:
Lord, give us a desire to be faithful servants of Christ in what we say and do. May the faith which we profess be revealed in the actions we carry out. Help us to speak in love and act with compassion towards all who need Your mercy and grace that Christ might be seen in and from us. In His name, amen.
Rev John Noble