James 2:18
Verse
Context
Faith and Works
17So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead.18But someone will say, “You have faith and I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. 19You believe that God is one. Good for you! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.
Sermons
Ignatius of Antioch
Brian Brodersen
Zac Poonen
Chuck Smith
John Gill
St. John ChrysostomSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Show me thy faith without thy works - Your pretending to have faith, while you have no works of charity or mercy, is utterly vain: for as faith, which is a principle in the mind, cannot be discerned but by the effects, that is, good works; he who has no good works has, presumptively, no faith. I will show thee my faith by my works - My works of charity and mercy will show that I have faith; and that it is the living tree, whose root is love to God and man, and whose fruit is the good works here contended for.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
"But some one will say": so the Greek. This verse continues the argument from Jam 2:14, Jam 2:16. One may say he has faith though he have not works. Suppose one were to say to a naked brother, "Be warmed," without giving him needful clothing. "But someone (entertaining views of the need of faith having works joined to it) will say (in opposition to the 'say' of the professor)." show me thy faith without thy works--if thou canst; but thou canst not SHOW, that is, manifest or evidence thy alleged (Jam 2:14, "say") faith without works. "Show" does not mean here to prove to me, but exhibit to me. Faith is unseen save by God. To show faith to man, works in some form or other are needed: we are justified judicially by God (Rom 8:33); meritoriously, by Christ (Isa 53:11); mediately, by faith (Rom 5:1); evidentially, by works. The question here is not as to the ground on which believers are justified, but about the demonstration of their faith: so in the case of Abraham. In Gen 22:1 it is written, God did tempt Abraham, that is, put to the test of demonstration the reality of his faith, not for the satisfaction of God, who already knew it well, but to demonstrate it before men. The offering of Isaac at that time, quoted here, Jam 2:21, formed no part of the ground of his justification, for he was justified previously on his simply believing in the promise of spiritual heirs, that is, believers, numerous as the stars. He was then justified: that justification was showed or manifested by his offering Isaac forty years after. That work of faith demonstrated, but did not contribute to his justification. The tree shows its life by its fruits, but it was alive before either fruits or even leaves appeared.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Yea, a man may say, thou hast faith, and I have works,.... That is, a true believer in Christ may very justly call upon a vain boaster of his faith, who has no works, to give proof and evidence of it, and address him after this manner; you say you have faith, be it so that you have; I have works, you see I have, I say nothing about my faith at present; now, shew me thy faith without thy works, if thou canst; see what ways, means, and methods thou canst make use of, to make it appear to me, or any other, that you have the faith you talk of: the words are a sort of sarcasm and jeer upon the man, and yet very just, calling upon him to do that which is impossible to be done, and thereby exposing his vain boast; for faith is an inward principle in the heart; an hidden thing, and cannot be seen and known but by external acts; and where it is right, it is operative, and shows itself by works, which is not practicable in those who have none: and I will show thee my faith by my works; there may be indeed an appearance of good works, where there is no faith, as in the Heathens, in the Scribes and Pharisees, and in the Papists, and others; and on the other hand, there may be the principle of faith implanted, where there is not an opportunity of showing it by a series of good works, or a course of godly living, as in elect infants dying in infancy, and in those who are converted in their last moments, as the thief upon the cross; wherefore works are not infallible proofs and evidences of faith, yet they are the best we are capable of giving of it to men, or they of receiving. In short, works may deceive, and do not infallibly prove truth of faith, yet it is certain, that where they are not, but persons live in a continued course of sinning, there cannot be true faith.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:18-19 James demonstrates the futility of believing that something is true without acting upon it. • Now someone may argue: James presents another diatribe (see study note on 1:13), in which he presents a hypothetical counterargument that one person may have the gift of faith while another person has the gift of works (see 1 Cor 12:7-9).
James 2:18
Faith and Works
17So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead.18But someone will say, “You have faith and I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. 19You believe that God is one. Good for you! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Epistle to the Ephesians
By Ignatius of Antioch1.3K17:48Audio BooksJHN 6:53EPH 2:14COL 1:151TH 5:171TI 4:13JAS 2:181PE 4:8The sermon transcript emphasizes the importance of running in harmony with the mind of God and following the teachings of Jesus Christ. It encourages believers to strive for peace and unity, as faith and love are the foundation of a noble life. The transcript also highlights the significance of actions over mere profession of faith, as one's true character is revealed through their deeds. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for frequent gatherings for thanksgiving and worship, as well as the importance of being in unity with the bishop and the church.
Anabaptist History (Day 5) Erasmus, Luther and the Radical Reformation
By Dean Taylor1.2K1:28:24MAT 6:24EPH 2:8JAS 2:18
This sermon delves into the stories of historical figures like Luther and the Anabaptists, emphasizing the reflection of ourselves in their heroic deeds and mistakes. It highlights the importance of keeping our focus on Jesus Christ to avoid messing things up even when God uses us. The sermon also touches on the significance of understanding salvation beyond just a mental concept and the need to align our faith with our actions, as well as the dangers of deviating from Christ's true intentions for the church.
(Romans) Faith or Works?
By Brian Brodersen94449:11MAT 6:33ROM 2:8ROM 4:9EPH 2:8JAS 2:18In this sermon, the speaker discusses the lack of understanding among Roman Catholics about how to attain salvation. He highlights the fact that many Catholic leaders are also unaware of the true gospel and salvation by grace. The speaker emphasizes the importance of knowing how to respond to those who believe in salvation by works. The sermon then transitions to a study of Romans chapter 4, focusing on verses 9-16, which provide insight into the topic of salvation and righteousness.
Three Important Words: Faith
By Zac Poonen5201:00:00JHN 15:4ROM 8:16EPH 2:8PHP 4:13JAS 2:18
This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding true faith, highlighting that faith is not merely intellectual belief but a deep confidence in God as Father, a dependent relationship upon Jesus Christ like a marriage, and the production of works reflecting Christ's character, such as forgiveness. The speaker stresses the need for a genuine transformation in one's life through faith, leading to a secure and fruitful Christian walk.
Luke 8:22
By Chuck Smith0SalvationFaithMAT 17:20MRK 16:17LUK 17:5JHN 3:16ACT 16:31ROM 10:172CO 5:7PHP 4:19HEB 11:6JAS 2:18Chuck Smith emphasizes the critical role of faith in salvation, asserting that without faith, it is impossible to please God. He challenges believers to examine their faith, noting that many trust in human means rather than divine promises, and questions whether they have enough faith for both small and significant matters. Smith highlights that true faith must manifest in actions, as demonstrated in the book of James, and calls for believers to seek an increase in their faith through the Word of God. Ultimately, he urges the congregation to reflect on the question, 'Where is your faith?'
Of Good Works in General.
By John Gill0Good WorksFaith and SalvationMAT 7:12ROM 3:201CO 10:31EPH 2:8PHP 1:112TI 1:9TIT 3:14HEB 13:16JAS 2:18John Gill emphasizes the multifaceted nature of good works, categorizing them into natural, civil, relative, and charitable actions. He explains that true good works must align with God's will, stem from love, be done in faith, and aim for God's glory. Gill also highlights that while good works are essential, they do not merit salvation, which is solely through grace. He stresses that only those transformed by Christ can perform good works, and these actions serve to glorify God and benefit others. Ultimately, good works are the fruit of faith and a reflection of one's relationship with God.
Homily 5 on the Statues
By St. John Chrysostom0GEN 2:17JER 18:7JON 3:9MAT 10:381CO 14:202CO 7:101TI 5:6JAS 2:18John Chrysostom continues his exhortation to the people, urging them to bear with fortitude the impending wrath of the Emperor. He refers to the examples of Job and the Ninevites to show that men should fear sin more than death. Chrysostom explains the importance of dying without sin and concludes with a strong dissuasive against the use of oaths, emphasizing the need for repentance and a change in moral character to avoid sin and its consequences.
The Narrow Road to Salvation (Part 4)
By Robert Wurtz II0ISA 53:4ROM 4:1JAS 2:18Robert Wurtz II delves into the Book of Romans, emphasizing the narrow road to salvation through faith and not works. He highlights the importance of God's mercy and grace in forgiving man's sins, making it clear that salvation cannot be earned through works but is a gift from God. The sermon explores the concept of imputed righteousness, where God credits righteousness to believers through faith, contrasting it with the costly nature of sin that requires atonement. Wurtz also discusses the significance of faith, zeal, and the seal of the Holy Spirit in demonstrating one's trust in God and receiving His righteousness.
The Claim of Christian Endeavor
By Claude E. Hill0PRO 11:251CO 3:61CO 12:122CO 9:6GAL 5:6GAL 6:7PHP 2:41TI 6:10JAS 2:18Claude E. Hill preaches about the significance of Christian Endeavor within the church, emphasizing that while it is not the sole focus, it has played a vital role in theological discussions, promoting faith through works and emphasizing the importance of activity over mere intellectual pursuits. Christian Endeavor has contributed to Christian unity, peace, and missionary education, helping to instill a money conscience and raise the standard of good citizenship. It has been a servant of the church, aiding in various societal battles and claiming a servant's reward.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Show me thy faith without thy works - Your pretending to have faith, while you have no works of charity or mercy, is utterly vain: for as faith, which is a principle in the mind, cannot be discerned but by the effects, that is, good works; he who has no good works has, presumptively, no faith. I will show thee my faith by my works - My works of charity and mercy will show that I have faith; and that it is the living tree, whose root is love to God and man, and whose fruit is the good works here contended for.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
"But some one will say": so the Greek. This verse continues the argument from Jam 2:14, Jam 2:16. One may say he has faith though he have not works. Suppose one were to say to a naked brother, "Be warmed," without giving him needful clothing. "But someone (entertaining views of the need of faith having works joined to it) will say (in opposition to the 'say' of the professor)." show me thy faith without thy works--if thou canst; but thou canst not SHOW, that is, manifest or evidence thy alleged (Jam 2:14, "say") faith without works. "Show" does not mean here to prove to me, but exhibit to me. Faith is unseen save by God. To show faith to man, works in some form or other are needed: we are justified judicially by God (Rom 8:33); meritoriously, by Christ (Isa 53:11); mediately, by faith (Rom 5:1); evidentially, by works. The question here is not as to the ground on which believers are justified, but about the demonstration of their faith: so in the case of Abraham. In Gen 22:1 it is written, God did tempt Abraham, that is, put to the test of demonstration the reality of his faith, not for the satisfaction of God, who already knew it well, but to demonstrate it before men. The offering of Isaac at that time, quoted here, Jam 2:21, formed no part of the ground of his justification, for he was justified previously on his simply believing in the promise of spiritual heirs, that is, believers, numerous as the stars. He was then justified: that justification was showed or manifested by his offering Isaac forty years after. That work of faith demonstrated, but did not contribute to his justification. The tree shows its life by its fruits, but it was alive before either fruits or even leaves appeared.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Yea, a man may say, thou hast faith, and I have works,.... That is, a true believer in Christ may very justly call upon a vain boaster of his faith, who has no works, to give proof and evidence of it, and address him after this manner; you say you have faith, be it so that you have; I have works, you see I have, I say nothing about my faith at present; now, shew me thy faith without thy works, if thou canst; see what ways, means, and methods thou canst make use of, to make it appear to me, or any other, that you have the faith you talk of: the words are a sort of sarcasm and jeer upon the man, and yet very just, calling upon him to do that which is impossible to be done, and thereby exposing his vain boast; for faith is an inward principle in the heart; an hidden thing, and cannot be seen and known but by external acts; and where it is right, it is operative, and shows itself by works, which is not practicable in those who have none: and I will show thee my faith by my works; there may be indeed an appearance of good works, where there is no faith, as in the Heathens, in the Scribes and Pharisees, and in the Papists, and others; and on the other hand, there may be the principle of faith implanted, where there is not an opportunity of showing it by a series of good works, or a course of godly living, as in elect infants dying in infancy, and in those who are converted in their last moments, as the thief upon the cross; wherefore works are not infallible proofs and evidences of faith, yet they are the best we are capable of giving of it to men, or they of receiving. In short, works may deceive, and do not infallibly prove truth of faith, yet it is certain, that where they are not, but persons live in a continued course of sinning, there cannot be true faith.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:18-19 James demonstrates the futility of believing that something is true without acting upon it. • Now someone may argue: James presents another diatribe (see study note on 1:13), in which he presents a hypothetical counterargument that one person may have the gift of faith while another person has the gift of works (see 1 Cor 12:7-9).