Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For in Jesus Christ - By the dispensation of the Gospel all legal observances, as essential to salvation, are done away; and uncircumcision, or the Gentile state, contributes as much to salvation as circumcision or the Jewish state; they are both equally ineffectual; and nothing now avails in the sight of God but that faith δι' αγαπης ενεργουμενη, which is made active, or energetic, by love. God acknowledges no faith, as of the operation of his Spirit, that is not active or obedient; but the principle of all obedience to God, and beneficence to man, is love; therefore faith cannot work unless it be associated with love. Love to God produces obedience to his will: love to man worketh no ill; but, on the contrary, every act of kindness. Faith which does not work by love is either circumcision or uncircumcision, or whatever its possessor may please to call it; it is, however, nothing that will stand him in stead when God comes to take away his soul. It availeth nothing. This humble, holy, operative, obedient Love, is the grand touchstone of all human creeds and confessions of faith. Faith without this has neither soul nor operation; in the language of the Apostle James, it is dead, and can perform no function of the spiritual life, no more than a dead man can perform the duties of animal or civil life.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--confirming the truth that it is "by faith" (Gal 5:5). in Jesus Christ--Greek, "in Christ Jesus." In union with Christ (the ANOINTED Saviour), that is, Jesus of Nazareth. nor uncircumcision--This is levelled against those who, being not legalists, or Judaizers, think themselves Christians on this ground alone. faith which worketh by love--Greek, "working by love." This corresponds to "a new creature" (Gal 6:15), as its definition. Thus in Gal 5:5-6, we have the three, "faith," "hope," and "love." The Greek expresses, "Which effectually worketh"; which exhibits its energy by love (so Th1 2:13). Love is not joined with faith in justifying, but is the principle of the works which follow after justification by faith. Let not legalists, upholding circumcision, think that the essence of the law is set at naught by the doctrine of justification by faith only. Nay, "all the law is fulfilled in one word--love," which is the principle on which "faith worketh" (Gal 5:14). Let them, therefore, seek this "faith," which will enable them truly to fulfil the law. Again, let not those who pride themselves on uncircumcision think that, because the law does not justify, they are free to walk after "the flesh" (Gal 5:13). Let them, then, seek that "love" which is inseparable from true faith (Jam 2:8, Jam 2:12-22). Love is utterly opposed to the enmities which prevailed among the Galatians (Gal 5:15, Gal 5:20). The Spirit (Gal 5:5) is a Spirit of "faith" and "love" (compare Rom 14:17; Co1 7:19).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For in Christ Jesus,.... The Arabic version reads, "in the religion of Christ"; in the religion of Moses, or of the Jews under the former dispensation, the things after mentioned were of some moment and consideration; but are of no account in the Christian religion, and under the Gospel dispensation: circumcision and uncircumcision make no difference in the church of Christ, or are any bar to communion with it; nor do they make any alteration in the love and favour of Christ, who is all in all to his people, whether Jews or Gentiles; nor have they any influence at all on salvation, Christ being a common Saviour to the circumcised and uncircumcised; nor are they any evidence for or against a person's being in Christ, or having an interest in him: neither circumcision availeth anything; not now as a command and ordinance of God, being abolished by Christ; nor as a type, having its accomplishment in him, and his people; nor as a privilege, giving any preference in any respect to the Jew above the Gentile; nor is it of any weight or consequence, or has any concern in the business of salvation: nor uncircumcision; it is no hinderance to the enjoyment of the Gospel, to entrance into a Gospel church state, or to admission to the ordinances of it; nor to the participation of the blessings of grace, as justification, pardon, adoption, and eternal life: but faith which works by love; faith has a concern in justification and salvation, not by way of causal influence, but as it is that grace which receives the righteousness of Christ, through which we are saved, and kept by the power of God unto salvation; yet not any sort of faith, but that which is operative, is attended with good works; and which works itself by love to God, to Christ, to his people, ways, worship, truths, and ordinances. The Syriac version renders it, "which is perfected by love"; that is, is showed to be right, true, and genuine thereby; see Jam 2:22.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:6 Faith in Christ Jesus provides access to all of God’s favor and grace, so no further benefit is available through human effort. Faith is expressed by exercising love toward others (cp. Rom 13:10; 14:17-19; 2 Cor 8:8-13).
Freedom in Christ
5But by faith we eagerly await through the Spirit the hope of righteousness.6For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. All that matters is faith, expressed through love.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Faith vs. Works
By Stephen Kaung2.3K1:13:30FaithGAL 1:23GAL 2:16GAL 2:20GAL 3:2GAL 3:5GAL 3:10GAL 5:6In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the letter to the Galatians and the basics of the gospel of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that the gospel is based on grace, not law, and that good works do not earn eternal life. The preacher also highlights the importance of personal surrender to Christ and how it should inspire a conduct aligned with that surrender. He uses the example of a servant who works all day and then serves his master before eating to illustrate the concept of surrender and the absence of merit in salvation.
Faith and Works - Part 2
By Derek Prince1.7K29:10MAT 22:37ROM 13:81CO 15:56GAL 5:6JAS 2:25This sermon delves into the essence of sin as the refusal to depend on God, highlighting the root problem of humanity's self-reliance and reluctance to trust in God. It emphasizes the importance of surrendering control to God and depending on His grace, rather than relying on our own abilities or following a legalistic approach. The message underscores the significance of love as the righteous requirement of the law, encouraging believers to aim for a life motivated by love and to understand that faith, not perfection, is counted as righteousness.
The Obedience of Joseph
By Joshua Daniel1.5K25:32MAT 1:24MAT 2:13GAL 5:6PHP 2:8HEB 5:9HEB 11:8JAS 2:171JN 5:3This sermon delves into the story of Joseph in the New Testament, highlighting his obedience, faith, and action in response to the angel's instructions to protect Jesus. It emphasizes the importance of dynamic faith-driven action, obedience to God's word, and the transformative power of the cross in inspiring obedience and faithfulness in believers.
Genuine Love
By Tim Conway1.4K56:13ISA 43:2MAT 10:28ROM 8:12CO 11:25GAL 5:6EPH 3:171JN 4:18This sermon emphasizes the importance of genuine love without hypocrisy, rooted in faith in Christ. It challenges believers to love sacrificially despite real-life challenges, false accusations, disappointments, and personal struggles, highlighting that true faith always produces love. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God's promises that all things work together for good, nothing can separate them from Christ's love, and God is always for them, enabling them to love fearlessly and generously.
Bristol Conference 1962 - Part 3
By William MacDonald1.4K36:34ConferencePSA 51:6HOS 4:1HOS 6:4HOS 7:9HOS 7:16HOS 11:1GAL 5:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of idolatry and how it can manifest in our lives. He emphasizes the importance of identifying the subjects that we are most passionate and enthusiastic about, as they may reveal our true idols. The speaker also highlights the need to prioritize our devotion to God over other aspects of our lives, such as sports or work. He then delves into the book of Hosea, specifically focusing on the rejection of Israel by God and their sinful behavior. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having a genuine heart towards God rather than relying on external religious rituals. He concludes by pointing out the fulfillment of biblical prophecies and the relevance of the Bible in today's world.
Believe in Your Heart That God Raised Jesus From the Dead
By John Piper1.0K27:15GospelDEU 30:11MAT 6:33JHN 3:13ROM 10:6GAL 5:6EPH 2:8In this sermon, John Piper explores the connection between the Old Testament law and the righteousness of faith. He begins by referencing Deuteronomy chapter 30, where Moses assures the people that God's commandments are not too difficult to follow. Piper emphasizes that the righteousness of faith is not based on legalism or works, but on trusting in God's grace to transform our hearts. He then delves into Paul's interpretation of the law in Romans 10:6-8, highlighting how Jesus is the fulfillment of the law and the ultimate goal of God's plan. Piper encourages listeners to study and understand the complexity of these verses in order to grasp the profound connection between the Old Testament and the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Road That Leads to Rest
By Rick Leibee8201:03:35GAL 5:6HEB 4:7HEB 4:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of the children of Israel in the book of Numbers. He highlights the importance of belief and faith in God's promises. The preacher emphasizes that some Christians are stuck in a spiritual wilderness, lacking the fullness of God's blessings. He encourages listeners to have a faith like Caleb, who believed wholeheartedly in God's promises and was able to claim his inheritance.
Holiness: A Love Service
By Samuel Logan Brengle3Love ServiceHolinessMAT 11:30JHN 15:9ROM 12:12CO 5:14GAL 5:6EPH 3:17PHP 4:13HEB 10:201PE 1:151JN 4:19Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes that true holiness is achieved not through rigid rules or struggles, but through the love of Christ that compels us to serve joyfully. He recounts the transformative experience of Asa Mahan, who realized that sanctification comes from faith working through love, leading to a life of victorious holiness. Brengle encourages believers to embrace a 'love service' rather than a 'slavish service,' highlighting that God desires our heartfelt devotion. He shares a testimony of a young woman who found joy and victory in her faith by surrendering to God's love, illustrating the power of love in overcoming personal struggles. Ultimately, Brengle calls for a deeper understanding of God's love, which leads to a fulfilling and holy life.
The Doctrine of Justification 9. Its Evidence
By A.W. Pink1Faith and WorksJustificationGEN 15:6JOB 34:32JHN 15:14ACT 3:19ROM 3:28GAL 5:6HEB 9:14JAS 2:17JAS 2:241JN 3:17A.W. Pink explores the doctrine of justification, emphasizing the apparent contradiction between Paul's assertion that justification is by faith alone and James' claim that works are necessary for justification. Pink clarifies that Paul speaks of justification before God, while James addresses the evidence of faith before men, asserting that genuine faith is always accompanied by good works. He warns against the danger of empty professions of faith that lack spiritual fruit, illustrating that true faith manifests in love and obedience. The sermon highlights the inseparable relationship between justification and sanctification, urging believers to demonstrate their faith through their actions.
On the Death of Rev. Mr. John Fletcher
By John Wesley1FaithfulnessLegacy of a BelieverPSA 37:37MAT 5:16ROM 12:1GAL 5:6PHP 4:72TI 4:7HEB 12:1JAS 1:121PE 5:101JN 5:13John Wesley reflects on the life and death of Rev. Mr. John Fletcher, emphasizing his exemplary character as a 'perfect and upright man' whose life was marked by faith, love, and unwavering dedication to God. Wesley contrasts the peaceful end of Fletcher's life with the fate of the wicked, illustrating how Fletcher's faith brought him an inner peace that transcended understanding. He recounts Fletcher's tireless ministry, his deep communion with God, and his profound humility, which made him a beloved figure among his parishioners. Wesley encourages the congregation to emulate Fletcher's devotion and to seek a similar relationship with God, as Fletcher's life serves as a testament to the power of faith and love.
Of the Practical Influence of Faith
By John Newton1ROM 12:2GAL 5:6EPH 4:1PHP 4:6JAS 2:261JN 2:15John Newton emphasizes the importance of faith not only for a sinner's justification before God but also in daily life, guiding believers through challenges and decisions. He highlights the discrepancy between professing faith and displaying ungodly behaviors, stressing the need for true transformation and sanctification. Newton urges believers to walk worthy of God, emphasizing that faith should lead to a life that glorifies God and reflects Christ's character. He explains how faith enables believers to find strength, peace, and guidance in all circumstances, fostering a deep relationship with God and influencing interactions with others.
The Upright Man's Character
By Thomas Watson1PSA 32:2PSA 37:37PSA 51:6PRO 23:26MRK 9:24JHN 14:1ROM 2:5GAL 5:6EPH 5:91PE 1:18Thomas Watson preaches about the importance of sincerity and uprightness in a Christian's character, highlighting the significance of having a heart for God, working by an upright rule, and acting from a principle of faith and love. He emphasizes the traits of an upright man, including being uniform in piety, zealous for God, and progressive in holiness. Watson contrasts the end of the upright man, which is peace with God, conscience, and the saints, with the end of the wicked, which is to be cut off. He provides comfort to the upright by assuring them of the peaceful and honorable end awaiting them.
The Death of the Rev. Mr. John Fletcher
By John Fletcher1Peace in ChristFaithPSA 37:37MAT 5:8ROM 12:1GAL 5:6PHP 4:72TI 4:7HEB 12:1JAS 1:121PE 5:101JN 5:13John Wesley reflects on the life and death of the Rev. Mr. John Fletcher, emphasizing his exemplary character as a 'perfect and upright man' whose life was marked by faith, love, and unwavering dedication to God. Wesley contrasts the peaceful end of Fletcher's life with the fate of the wicked, illustrating how Fletcher's faith brought him an inner peace that transcended his suffering. He recounts Fletcher's tireless ministry, his deep communion with God, and his profound humility, which made him a beloved figure among his parishioners. Wesley encourages the congregation to emulate Fletcher's devotion and to seek the same peace that comes from a life lived in faith.
Day 52, Galatians 5
By David Servant0GAL 5:3GAL 5:6GAL 5:13GAL 5:16GAL 5:24David Servant preaches on the issue of circumcision for Gentiles in Galatia, emphasizing Paul's anger towards the teaching that circumcision was essential for salvation. Paul clarifies that adopting the Mosaic Law for salvation means being obligated to keep every aspect perfectly, leading to a yoke of slavery. He distinguishes those who try to earn salvation through their own efforts from those saved by grace and empowered to live holy lives. Paul highlights the importance of faith working through love, the battle between the flesh and the Spirit, and the process of sanctification in believers.
Work to Abide
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 46:10PSA 84:11JHN 15:4GAL 5:61JN 4:16Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the importance of trusting in the Lord, emphasizing that He is a sun and shield, granting grace, glory, and every good thing to those who walk uprightly. She highlights the simplicity of just trusting in God, leading to a peaceful and blessed life regardless of circumstances. Tileston encourages stillness, faith, love, trust, and confidence in God as the key to experiencing more goodness and holiness, emphasizing the need for quiet growth in the kingdom of God.
Lovingly Embracing Truth
By A.W. Tozer0Love in DoctrineTruth1SA 13:12JHN 8:32ROM 13:101CO 13:2GAL 5:6EPH 4:15COL 3:142TI 3:16HEB 4:21JN 4:16A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of embracing truth with love, arguing that while theology is essential for strong Christian faith, it must be coupled with love to be truly meaningful. He warns against the dangers of unbelief, illustrating how Israel's failure to combine truth with faith led to their downfall. Tozer compares this to King Saul's unauthorized offering, highlighting the tragic consequences of attempting to engage with holy truth without a sincere heart. Ultimately, he calls for a deep, loving engagement with divine truth to avoid the pitfalls of mere doctrinal knowledge devoid of faith.
On Sinning
By Charles Finney0ObedienceMoral ResponsibilityMAT 5:16MAT 7:21LUK 6:46JHN 14:15ROM 2:13GAL 5:6EPH 2:10JAS 4:171PE 1:151JN 2:4Charles Finney emphasizes the grave nature of sin, particularly the sin of neglecting known duties as outlined in James 4:17. He argues that true faith must manifest in love and obedience, and that neglecting any known duty is a deliberate rejection of moral obligation to God. Finney clarifies that both Paul and James teach the necessity of works as a condition of salvation, and that failing to act on known duties is tantamount to sin. He warns that living in neglect of duty leads to spiritual deception and ultimately, separation from God. The sermon calls for a commitment to fulfill all known obligations to God and others as a true expression of faith.
1 John 2:3
By John Gill0Knowledge Of GodObedience to ChristMAT 7:21JHN 14:15JHN 15:10ROM 5:5GAL 5:61JN 2:31JN 3:241JN 4:191JN 5:3John Gill emphasizes that true knowledge of God and Christ is not merely intellectual but is characterized by heartfelt love and obedience. This knowledge is evidenced by keeping God's commandments, which are rooted in faith and love rather than mere external observance. Gill distinguishes between the knowledge that leads to salvation and that which is superficial, asserting that genuine faith produces love and obedience to Christ's teachings. He highlights the importance of understanding God's grace and the role of Christ as our advocate and propitiation for sin. Ultimately, true knowledge of God results in a transformed life that reflects His commands and love.
Letters on Revival--No. 4.
By Charles Finney0Faith and WorksBalance in ChristianityMAT 7:21JHN 15:5ROM 8:2ROM 12:12CO 5:14GAL 5:6EPH 2:8PHP 2:12JAS 2:171JN 3:18Charles Finney addresses the dangers of Antinomianism and legalism in his sermon 'Letters on Revival--No. 4,' emphasizing that both extremes deviate from true Christianity. He explains that Antinomians, having rejected self-righteous efforts, often fall into spiritual indolence, mistaking passive faith for true faith, which should be active and energizing. Finney argues that true faith is characterized by a deep sympathy with Christ and a commitment to benevolence, leading to active participation in the mission of the church. He warns against following mere feelings instead of being guided by the Word of God, urging believers to find balance in their spiritual lives. Ultimately, he calls for a revival that embodies the true spirit of Christianity, avoiding both extremes.
Of Peelings and Pedestals
By John Fischer01SA 16:7MAT 23:27JHN 4:23JHN 8:32ROM 12:21CO 13:2GAL 5:6COL 2:81JN 4:20John Fischer reflects on his upbringing in a mainline evangelical denomination, where he excelled in following Christian expectations but struggled with the authenticity of his faith. He describes the process of peeling away traditional Christian layers to discover genuine emotional responses to God and true obedience. Fischer grapples with the challenge of differentiating between cultural Christianity and a personal relationship with Christ, emphasizing the importance of seeking truth and honesty in one's faith journey.
Plus, or Minus?
By Miles J. Stanford0ROM 3:28ROM 6:142CO 3:6GAL 3:24GAL 5:1GAL 5:6EPH 2:8HEB 9:14Miles J. Stanford preaches about the importance of faith working through love in Jesus Christ, emphasizing that neither circumcision nor uncircumcision matters, but rather faith that is active through love. He critiques Covenant theology for neglecting the truth of spiritual growth and imposing the Ten Commandments as the sole obligation on Christians, contrary to the teachings of the New Testament. Stanford highlights how the Protestant Reformation, while freeing believers from Rome, brought them back under the bondage of Sinai, hindering spiritual life. He stresses that living fruit cannot come from legalism, as the law only produces 'dead works' that need to be purged from conscience.
Personal Unworthiness
By St. Polycarp of Smyrna0ROM 13:101CO 13:13GAL 5:61PE 4:81JN 3:18St. Polycarp of Smyrna emphasizes the importance of righteousness, highlighting the teachings of the apostle Paul as a source of wisdom and truth. He encourages the listeners to study Paul's letters diligently for spiritual growth and to strengthen their faith, hope, and love for God, Christ, and others. Polycarp explains that possessing love is key to fulfilling the command of righteousness and being free from sin.
On True Religion
By Thomas Reade0LUK 6:46ROM 12:1GAL 5:6PHP 4:6COL 3:171TH 5:18HEB 13:15JAS 1:27JAS 2:171PE 2:9Thomas Reade preaches on true religion, emphasizing that it does not seek human approval but thrives in communion with God through prayer and meditation on the Scriptures. True religion is sincere, founded on God's word, and centered on Jesus Christ, aiming to promote the happiness of all. It is not about outward appearances, forms, or mere moral duties, but about faith working through love, producing good works as evidence of genuine belief. Reade highlights the importance of living out the Gospel, exemplifying the spirit of martyrdom, and being thankful in all circumstances, urging believers to seek true joy in spiritual communion with God.
Faith Must Be Demonstrated
By A.W. Tozer0Living Out LoveDemonstrating FaithMAT 5:16ROM 1:172CO 5:7GAL 5:6EPH 2:10PHP 2:12HEB 11:1HEB 12:1JAS 2:171JN 3:18A.W. Tozer emphasizes that faith must be demonstrated rather than merely defined, drawing from the examples of faith in Hebrews 11. He asserts that both preachers and congregants are called to actively show their faith through their actions and lives, reflecting God's love and ideals. Tozer encourages believers to lay aside distractions and sins, running the race of faith with endurance, and to seek the Holy Spirit's strength to embody this unwavering faith.
Sanctification and Final Salvation
By Harald Lindström0ROM 3:28GAL 5:6EPH 2:8PHP 2:12HEB 12:14JAS 2:17Harald Lindström preaches on the concept of Final Salvation as a Work of God, emphasizing the importance of sanctification as a prerequisite for both present and final salvation. He delves into the necessity of faith and works in the Christian journey, highlighting the continuous growth in sanctification and the pursuit of perfection as essential elements. Lindström explores the convergence of present and final salvation in saving faith, stressing the significance of faith active in love and obedience. He addresses the balance between grace and human effort in salvation, emphasizing the synergistic relationship between God's grace and man's response.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For in Jesus Christ - By the dispensation of the Gospel all legal observances, as essential to salvation, are done away; and uncircumcision, or the Gentile state, contributes as much to salvation as circumcision or the Jewish state; they are both equally ineffectual; and nothing now avails in the sight of God but that faith δι' αγαπης ενεργουμενη, which is made active, or energetic, by love. God acknowledges no faith, as of the operation of his Spirit, that is not active or obedient; but the principle of all obedience to God, and beneficence to man, is love; therefore faith cannot work unless it be associated with love. Love to God produces obedience to his will: love to man worketh no ill; but, on the contrary, every act of kindness. Faith which does not work by love is either circumcision or uncircumcision, or whatever its possessor may please to call it; it is, however, nothing that will stand him in stead when God comes to take away his soul. It availeth nothing. This humble, holy, operative, obedient Love, is the grand touchstone of all human creeds and confessions of faith. Faith without this has neither soul nor operation; in the language of the Apostle James, it is dead, and can perform no function of the spiritual life, no more than a dead man can perform the duties of animal or civil life.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--confirming the truth that it is "by faith" (Gal 5:5). in Jesus Christ--Greek, "in Christ Jesus." In union with Christ (the ANOINTED Saviour), that is, Jesus of Nazareth. nor uncircumcision--This is levelled against those who, being not legalists, or Judaizers, think themselves Christians on this ground alone. faith which worketh by love--Greek, "working by love." This corresponds to "a new creature" (Gal 6:15), as its definition. Thus in Gal 5:5-6, we have the three, "faith," "hope," and "love." The Greek expresses, "Which effectually worketh"; which exhibits its energy by love (so Th1 2:13). Love is not joined with faith in justifying, but is the principle of the works which follow after justification by faith. Let not legalists, upholding circumcision, think that the essence of the law is set at naught by the doctrine of justification by faith only. Nay, "all the law is fulfilled in one word--love," which is the principle on which "faith worketh" (Gal 5:14). Let them, therefore, seek this "faith," which will enable them truly to fulfil the law. Again, let not those who pride themselves on uncircumcision think that, because the law does not justify, they are free to walk after "the flesh" (Gal 5:13). Let them, then, seek that "love" which is inseparable from true faith (Jam 2:8, Jam 2:12-22). Love is utterly opposed to the enmities which prevailed among the Galatians (Gal 5:15, Gal 5:20). The Spirit (Gal 5:5) is a Spirit of "faith" and "love" (compare Rom 14:17; Co1 7:19).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For in Christ Jesus,.... The Arabic version reads, "in the religion of Christ"; in the religion of Moses, or of the Jews under the former dispensation, the things after mentioned were of some moment and consideration; but are of no account in the Christian religion, and under the Gospel dispensation: circumcision and uncircumcision make no difference in the church of Christ, or are any bar to communion with it; nor do they make any alteration in the love and favour of Christ, who is all in all to his people, whether Jews or Gentiles; nor have they any influence at all on salvation, Christ being a common Saviour to the circumcised and uncircumcised; nor are they any evidence for or against a person's being in Christ, or having an interest in him: neither circumcision availeth anything; not now as a command and ordinance of God, being abolished by Christ; nor as a type, having its accomplishment in him, and his people; nor as a privilege, giving any preference in any respect to the Jew above the Gentile; nor is it of any weight or consequence, or has any concern in the business of salvation: nor uncircumcision; it is no hinderance to the enjoyment of the Gospel, to entrance into a Gospel church state, or to admission to the ordinances of it; nor to the participation of the blessings of grace, as justification, pardon, adoption, and eternal life: but faith which works by love; faith has a concern in justification and salvation, not by way of causal influence, but as it is that grace which receives the righteousness of Christ, through which we are saved, and kept by the power of God unto salvation; yet not any sort of faith, but that which is operative, is attended with good works; and which works itself by love to God, to Christ, to his people, ways, worship, truths, and ordinances. The Syriac version renders it, "which is perfected by love"; that is, is showed to be right, true, and genuine thereby; see Jam 2:22.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:6 Faith in Christ Jesus provides access to all of God’s favor and grace, so no further benefit is available through human effort. Faith is expressed by exercising love toward others (cp. Rom 13:10; 14:17-19; 2 Cor 8:8-13).