James 2:17
Verse
Context
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If it hath not works, is dead - The faith that does not produce works of charity and mercy is without the living principle which animates all true faith, that is, love to God and love to man. They had faith, such as a man has who credits a well-circumstanced relation because it has all the appearance of truth; but they had nothing of that faith that a sinner, convinced of his sinfulness, God's purity, and the strictness of the Divine laws, is obliged to exert in the Lord Jesus, in order to be saved from his sins.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
faith . . . being alone--ALFORD joins "is dead in itself." So BENGEL, "If the works which living faith produces have no existence, it is a proof that faith itself (literally, 'in respect to itself') has no existence; that is, that what one boasts of as faith, is dead." "Faith" is said to be "dead in itself," because when it has works it is alive, and it is discerned to be so, not in respect to its works, but in respect to itself. English Version, if retained, must not be understood to mean that faith can exist "alone" (that is, severed from works), but thus: Even so presumed faith, if it have not works, is dead, being by itself "alone," that is, severed from works of charity; just as the body would be "dead" if alone, that is, severed from the spirit (Jam 2:26). So ESTIUS.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. It is like a lifeless carcass, a body without a soul, Jam 2:26 for as works, without faith, are dead works, so faith, without works, is a dead faith, and not like the lively hope and faith of regenerated persons: and indeed, such who have no other faith than this are dead in trespasses and sins; not that works are the life of faith, or that the life of faith lies in, and flows from works; but, as Dr. Ames observes (b), good works are second acts, necessarily flowing from the life of faith; to which may be added, and by these faith appears to be living, lively and active, or such who perform them appear to be true and living believers. (b) Medulla Theolog. l. 2. c. 7. sect. 35.
James 2:17
Faith and Works
16If one of you tells him, “Go in peace; stay warm and well fed,” but does not provide for his physical needs, what good is that? 17So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(1 Peter - Part 22): Our Walk in the Presence of the Unsaved
By A.W. Tozer22K35:14UnsavedMAT 5:16MAT 6:331CO 10:31PHP 2:151TI 4:12JAS 2:171PE 2:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living an honest and upright life among non-believers. He highlights that God never gives us instructions to live without Him, and that His precepts are meant to be applied in different situations and contexts. The preacher encourages listeners to understand that the Bible provides broad principles of right living, but the specific application of those principles is determined by individual circumstances. The sermon is based on 1 Peter 2:12, which urges believers to have an honest conversation and conduct among Gentiles, so that their good works may glorify God.
Salvation by Faith (Reading)
By John Wesley13K27:26Audio BooksMAT 6:33ROM 3:28ROM 11:201CO 15:57EPH 4:13COL 3:3JAS 2:17In this video, James Christian introduces the John Wesley Sermon series, which aims to bring classic Christian texts, including Mr. Wesley's sermons, into audiobook form. He highlights the importance of these writings in inspiring a new generation to hear these messages. The video also mentions the establishment of the law and the fulfillment of righteousness through faith in Christ. It addresses the concern of pride that may arise from preaching this faith and emphasizes the need for believers to be cautious. Overall, the video promotes the importance of holiness and the impact of John Wesley's evangelism ministry in bringing about positive change in the Christian church.
A Call to Faith
By David Wilkerson7.9K1:01:36FaithPSA 121:5MAT 6:33MRK 11:22ACT 3:6ROM 10:17HEB 11:6JAS 2:17In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the importance of faith and the need to challenge, commit, and obligate oneself to God. He references the story of Joshua in the Bible, where Joshua commits God to act and obligates Him to make the sun stand still in order to win a battle. The speaker emphasizes the power of committing God before others and the importance of deepening one's faith. He also mentions the story of Elijah challenging the prophets of Baal and how he committed God to answer by fire. The sermon encourages listeners to have unwavering faith and to trust in God's power to act.
What Does It Mean to Accept Christ - Part 1
By A.W. Tozer6.0K22:47Sinners PrayerISA 1:16MAT 6:33MAT 7:21JHN 1:12ACT 16:31ROM 10:9JAS 2:17In this sermon, the preacher tells the story of the prodigal son from the Bible. He emphasizes the humbling experience of the son feeding swine, which was considered shameful for a Jew. The preacher then introduces a young man who approaches the prodigal son and shares the good news that his father is ready to forgive him. The prodigal son believes this and is encouraged to thank the Lord and accept his salvation. The preacher also criticizes a form of evangelism that focuses on accepting doctrine rather than true repentance and forgiveness.
Disciple Making, Fruit of Being a Christian and David Platt
By Francis Chan4.9K07:24MAT 4:19MAT 7:21LUK 9:232CO 5:17JAS 2:17This sermon delves into the essence of true discipleship and the transformation that should accompany genuine belief in Christ. It emphasizes the need for visible life change when the Holy Spirit dwells in a person, contrasting it with mere religious activities. The speaker highlights the importance of surrendering to Jesus, following Him wholeheartedly, and becoming disciple-makers as a natural outcome of being a disciple. The message also addresses the critical distinction between claiming to be a Christian and truly living a surrendered life to Christ, urging believers to examine their commitment and lifestyle in light of Scripture.
This Way to Happiness: What to Do Until the King Comes
By Warren Wiersbe4.8K44:59MAT 5:1LUK 17:26JHN 1:6EPH 2:10JAS 2:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the progression of human history as depicted in the book of Daniel. He explains that society is deteriorating and becoming weaker over time. The preacher highlights the acceptance and endorsement of immoral behaviors by religious people. He emphasizes the importance of Christians being the light of the world and the salt of the earth, by actively engaging with the needs of others and giving of themselves. The dangers to avoid are losing one's effectiveness as salt and hiding one's light under a bushel.
Biblical Assurance 1 - Austin, Tx
By Paul Washer4.1K43:16AssuranceMAT 6:33ROM 8:92CO 13:5GAL 5:22JAS 2:171JN 1:51JN 2:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the true nature of God and His will. He criticizes the reduction of Christianity to a few principles and a prayer for personal gain. The speaker highlights that God is not a hidden or distant deity, but has revealed Himself and His desires to humanity. The sermon also introduces the concept of tests in Scripture, with the first test being discussed at the end of the transcript.
Hearing Is a Divine Art - Take Heed How You Hear
By A.W. Tozer3.5K40:39HearingMAT 13:19LUK 8:5LUK 8:10JHN 21:16ACT 2:21JAS 2:17REV 3:1In this sermon, the preacher shares the parable of the sower from Luke 8. He explains that the sower represents God, and the seed represents the word of God. The different types of soil represent different responses to the word. Some people hear the word but allow it to be taken away by distractions or difficulties, while others receive it but allow worldly concerns to choke it. However, those who hear the word and hold onto it with a good heart will bear much fruit. The preacher emphasizes the importance of how we hear and receive the word, as it determines our eternal destiny.
Terms Are Costlier Than We Think
By Alan Redpath3.2K54:33DiscipleshipGEN 22:1MAT 6:33MAT 14:30PHP 3:10HEB 11:6JAS 2:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that the world is smaller than we think, and therefore the task of spreading the word of God is greater than we realize. The speaker shares a personal experience of feeling afraid and sinking, but being saved by calling out to the Lord. The speaker also highlights the importance of recognizing the power of the Holy Spirit in overcoming challenges. The sermon concludes with the speaker reflecting on the need to prioritize a relationship with God over worldly pursuits and knowledge.
Command of God the Obedience of Faith
By John Piper3.2K44:00ROM 1:5ROM 5:1ROM 5:17JAS 2:17This sermon delves into the importance of understanding the obedience of faith in relation to our justification. It emphasizes that our obedience is not the basis of our justification, but rather the fruit of genuine faith in Christ. The message highlights the transformative power of justifying faith, which leads to a changed life marked by obedience and conformity to Christ.
Total Dependence on God
By Zac Poonen2.9K58:39DependenceMAT 6:33ROM 10:17EPH 2:81TI 1:19HEB 11:6JAS 2:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a good conscience as a mark of true faith. He compares the cooperation of different parts of the human body to the need for total dependence on God in order to have harmony and unity among believers. The preacher warns against being influenced by worldly and materialistic teachings, urging Christians to be discerning and to prioritize their relationship with God over worldly desires. He emphasizes the need for Christians to be quick to confess their mistakes and seek forgiveness, as this is a sign of true faith.
True Faith
By Albu van Eeden2.8K1:09:08Faith1KI 17:91KI 17:12PRO 28:13MAT 6:331CO 10:13EPH 2:10JAS 2:17In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the mystery of God selecting a vessel to use. He emphasizes that God not only wants to save us but also desires to use us for His purposes. The speaker shares a personal experience of witnessing a street performer in New York City and how no one paid attention to him. This serves as a reminder that even if we feel alone or insignificant, God has a purpose for us. The sermon concludes with a call to obedience and trust in God, acknowledging that our problems and difficulties should not distract us from focusing on Him.
Redefining the Gospel
By Jacob Prasch2.6K48:20GospelJOL 2:20MAT 16:24ACT 16:312TI 3:16JAS 2:17REV 1:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the negative impact of consumerism and media on the preaching of the Gospel. He highlights the obsession with instant results and the constant need for gratification in today's society. The speaker also criticizes the trend of turning Christianity into a consumerist religion, where people are encouraged to "name it and claim it" and focus on material possessions. He emphasizes the need to recontextualize the Gospel and bring it into the lives of people who are influenced by media, while cautioning against turning Christianity into an electronic religion that imitates the world.
It Is Finished
By Manley Beasley2.6K29:04Finished Work Of ChristMAT 6:33JHN 5:19ROM 8:28GAL 2:20EPH 3:20HEB 11:1JAS 2:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life of submission to God's will, using Jesus Christ as an example. Jesus said that his meat, or desire, was to do the will of the Father. He taught that he only did what he saw the Father doing in heaven, and encouraged his followers to do the same. The preacher challenges believers to renounce themselves, submit to God, and have faith in His ability to meet every need. He concludes by urging listeners to be the ones that God can use to help others in this time of need.
Worship
By Manley Beasley2.5K52:35WorshipGEN 1:28MAT 6:33JHN 4:24ROM 8:28HEB 11:8JAS 2:171PE 2:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of worshiping God in spirit and truth. He shares a personal experience of surrendering his life to God and the profound impact it had on his relationship with Him. The speaker encourages listeners to prioritize knowing and walking with God above all else, even in their pursuit of becoming great preachers. He warns against allowing emotions to dictate one's spiritual journey and emphasizes the need for theological correctness in order to grow in grace and maturity as a child of God.
Where Did the Puritans Come From?
By J.I. Packer2.0K49:01MAT 11:28ROM 1:182CO 7:10GAL 2:16EPH 2:8JAS 2:171JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the factors that contributed to the distinctive nature of the Protestant movement. He identifies four main sectors that played a role in shaping the movement. The first sector is the legacy of Tyndale, which emphasized the lordship of the Bible and the importance of justified men in covenant with God. The second sector is the legacy of Branson, which prioritized repentance in both words and actions. The third sector is the legacy of Cooper and Frankfurt, which highlighted the reality of God's judgment and blessings throughout history. The fourth sector is the emphasis on the authority of the Bible, with Tyndale stressing the need to subject everything in church and faith to the rule of God's Word.
Dead to Sin; Alive to God
By Erlo Stegen1.9K55:15Dead To SinLAM 4:7MRK 16:151TI 5:22JAS 2:17In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a young doctor who is faced with a difficult situation. The doctor is treating a man who has lost four fingers, but the possibility of recovering the other fingers remains. The speaker questions the lack of integrity in society, where people's promises and words hold no value. The sermon also touches on the issue of people making decisions to accept the Lord when facing death, but often returning to their old ways if they recover. The speaker emphasizes the importance of living a life consistent with one's baptism and warns against hypocrisy. The sermon concludes with a reference to the Bible verse in Mark 16:17, which speaks about the signs that will follow those who believe.
By Faith Believe
By Bill McLeod1.9K43:02BeliefPSA 85:6MAT 7:7ACT 1:8ROM 1:172CO 1:20HEB 11:6JAS 2:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly possessions and the inevitability of death. He highlights the futility of accumulating material wealth, as it cannot be taken with us when we leave this world. The speaker also touches on the importance of music in religious gatherings, noting that it used to play a significant role in worship. However, he suggests that the focus should be on the message of salvation and the transformation of lives. The sermon concludes with a personal anecdote about a powerful meeting where God's presence was felt, leading to a realization of the need for a deeper examination of the heart.
Counterfeit Conversion (5 of 6)
By Winkie Pratney1.8K54:16MAT 3:8LUK 13:3ACT 2:38ROM 1:16EPH 2:8JAS 2:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of not allowing worldly desires and material possessions to choke out the word of God in our lives. He emphasizes the need for Christians to remain fruitful and not lose their first love for God. The preacher mentions that many Christians are not as effective for God as they should be, comparing them to the Navy after Pearl Harbor. He then goes on to explain the biblical signs of these "weeds" that can hinder our spiritual growth and offers insights on how to overcome them.
Dead Men Tell No Tales
By Rolfe Barnard1.7K1:01:41ConversionPRO 21:2MAT 5:16MAT 7:21LUK 16:192TI 2:19JAS 2:17In this sermon, the preacher expresses his heartbreak over the state of the world and the church. He emphasizes the importance of having a strong testimony and warns against giving a weak or uncertain sound. The preacher urges listeners to face their sin and calls for a revival of confession, heart searching, and agonizing prayer. He shares a story about a soldier who died holding onto a handbill from a meeting nine years prior, highlighting the power of a lasting testimony.
Work Out Your Salvation
By John Murray1.6K27:26SalvationROM 11:6EPH 2:8PHP 2:122TI 1:9TIT 3:5JAS 2:171PE 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the idea that our working is completely dependent on God's working in us. He explains that the manifestation of God's working in us is our own working, and if we are not actively working, it means that God is not working in us. The preacher emphasizes the importance of relying on God and working out our own salvation with fear and trembling, as it is God who works within us to fulfill His good pleasure. He also highlights that it is the fact that God works in us that provides the incentive and encouragement for us to engage in good works. The sermon emphasizes the need for obedience to God's revealed will as the standard for determining what is good.
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.
Writings
By William MacDonald1.4K45:15WritingsRUT 1:16PSA 19:1PSA 121:1PRO 3:5ISA 26:3MAT 6:33JAS 2:17The video is a sermon on the preaching of the word of God. It emphasizes the importance of using short sentences and words, varying sentence patterns, and incorporating human interest to make the message more engaging. The speaker encourages the use of sanctified imagination and colorful descriptions to captivate the audience. The sermon also highlights the need for emphasis and a strong call to action in Christian writing.
More Reasons Why Evolution Is Stupid
By Kent Hovind1.4K1:31:22MAT 28:19COL 2:82TI 3:16JAS 2:17In this sermon, Ken Hovind passionately defends the literal truth of the Bible and challenges the theory of evolution taught in schools. He uses scientific arguments and historical examples to debunk evolutionary beliefs, highlighting the dangers and consequences of such ideologies. Hovind emphasizes the importance of actively serving God's kingdom and sharing the gospel with others, urging believers to be proactive in their faith and not be complacent.
Don't Draw Back (Compilation)
By Compilations1.3K11:25CompilationMAT 16:24MRK 5:39LUK 9:62LUK 10:19LUK 14:33HEB 10:38JAS 2:17In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of false reasoning and false concepts of God that have gripped the minds of many Christians in the Western world. He emphasizes that the call of Christ is not to lust after material wealth, but to long for God and His plan for our lives. The speaker highlights the importance of denying oneself, taking up the cross daily, and following Jesus as the true call of Christ. He warns that if we draw back from this call, we open ourselves up to the enemy's influence and false reasoning. The sermon also includes a story from the Bible where Jesus declares that a girl who was thought to be dead is actually only sleeping, illustrating the devil's tactic of bringing a report that it is too late for us to walk with God. The speaker encourages believers to live in constant expectancy of God's miraculous work in their lives and to be willing to suffer loss and let go of things that hinder their devotion to Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If it hath not works, is dead - The faith that does not produce works of charity and mercy is without the living principle which animates all true faith, that is, love to God and love to man. They had faith, such as a man has who credits a well-circumstanced relation because it has all the appearance of truth; but they had nothing of that faith that a sinner, convinced of his sinfulness, God's purity, and the strictness of the Divine laws, is obliged to exert in the Lord Jesus, in order to be saved from his sins.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
faith . . . being alone--ALFORD joins "is dead in itself." So BENGEL, "If the works which living faith produces have no existence, it is a proof that faith itself (literally, 'in respect to itself') has no existence; that is, that what one boasts of as faith, is dead." "Faith" is said to be "dead in itself," because when it has works it is alive, and it is discerned to be so, not in respect to its works, but in respect to itself. English Version, if retained, must not be understood to mean that faith can exist "alone" (that is, severed from works), but thus: Even so presumed faith, if it have not works, is dead, being by itself "alone," that is, severed from works of charity; just as the body would be "dead" if alone, that is, severed from the spirit (Jam 2:26). So ESTIUS.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. It is like a lifeless carcass, a body without a soul, Jam 2:26 for as works, without faith, are dead works, so faith, without works, is a dead faith, and not like the lively hope and faith of regenerated persons: and indeed, such who have no other faith than this are dead in trespasses and sins; not that works are the life of faith, or that the life of faith lies in, and flows from works; but, as Dr. Ames observes (b), good works are second acts, necessarily flowing from the life of faith; to which may be added, and by these faith appears to be living, lively and active, or such who perform them appear to be true and living believers. (b) Medulla Theolog. l. 2. c. 7. sect. 35.