James 2:19
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Thou believest that there is one God - This is the faith in which these persons put their hope of pleasing God, and of obtaining eternal life. Believing in the being and unity of God distinguished them from all the nations of the world; and having been circumcised, and thus brought into the covenant, they thought themselves secure of salvation. The insufficiency of this St. James immediately shows. The devils also believe, and tremble - It is well to believe there is one only true God; this truth universal nature proclaims. Even the devils believe it; but far from justifying or saving them, it leaves them in their damned state, and every act of it only increases their torment; φρισσουσι, they shudder with horror, they believe and tremble, are increasingly tormented; but they can neither love nor obey.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Thou--emphatic. Thou self-deceiving claimant to faith without works. that there is one God--rather, "that God is one": God's existence, however, is also asserted. The fundamental article of the creed of Jews and Christians alike, and the point of faith on which especially the former boasted themselves, as distinguishing them from the Gentiles, and hence adduced by James here. thou doest well--so far good. But unless thy faith goes farther than an assent to this truth, "the evil spirits (literally, 'demons': 'devil' is the term restricted to Satan, their head) believe" so far in common with thee, "and (so far from being saved by such a faith) shudder (so the Greek)," Mat 8:29; Luk 4:34; Pe2 2:4; Jde 1:6; Rev 20:10. Their faith only adds to their torment at the thought of having to meet Him who is to consign them to their just doom: so thine (Heb 10:26-27, it is not the faith of love, but of fear, that hath torment, Jo1 4:18).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Thou believest that there is one God,.... These words are a continuation of the address of the man that has works, to him that boasts of his faith without them, observing to him, that one, and a main article of his faith, is, that there is one God; which is to be understood in the Christian sense, since both the person speaking, and the person spoken to, were such as professed themselves Christians; so that to believe there is one God, is not merely to give into this article, in opposition to the polytheism of the Gentiles, or barely to confess the God of Israel, as believed on by the Jews, but to believe that there are three persons, Father, Son, and Spirit, and that these three are the one God; wherefore this article of faith includes everything relating to God; as to God the Father, his being and perfections, so to Christ, as God, and the Son of God, and the Messiah, &c. and to the Holy Spirit; and to believe all this is right: thou doest well; for that there is but one God, is to be proved by the light of nature, and from the works of creation and providence, and has been owned by the wisest of the Heathens themselves; and is established, by divine revelation, in the books both of the Old and of the New Testament; what has been received by the Jews, and is well known by Christians, to whom it is set in the clearest light, and who are assured of the truth of it: but then the devils also believe; the Arabic version reads, "the devils likewise so believe"; they believe the same truth; they know and believe there is but one God, and not many; and they know that the God of Israel is he; and that the Father, Son, and Spirit, are the one God; they know and believe him to be the most high God, whose servants the ministers of the Gospel are; and they know and believe that Jesus is the Holy One of God, the Son of God, and the Messiah, Act 16:17. And tremble; at the wrath of God, which they now feel, and at the thought of future torments, which they expect, Mar 5:7 and which is more than some men do; and yet these shall not be saved, their damnation is certain and inevitable, Pe2 2:4 wherefore it follows, that a bare historical faith will not profit, and cannot save any; a man may have all faith of this kind, and be damned; and therefore it is not to be boasted of, nor trusted to.
James 2:19
Faith and Works
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
A Place to Hide
By Jim Cymbala5.0K19:34The Power of PrayerChristian LifeGod's ProtectionPSA 36:7PSA 46:1PSA 62:8PSA 91:1ISA 41:10MAT 11:28LUK 13:34JHN 14:27ACT 3:19JAS 2:19Jim Cymbala emphasizes the priceless nature of God's unfailing love and the refuge it provides, likening God to a protective bird under whose wings we can find safety. He explains that true trust in God is demonstrated through prayer and running to Him in times of need, highlighting that many people fail to experience this refuge due to a lack of genuine faith. Cymbala encourages believers to seek God's presence, especially during times of trouble, as it is there that they can find peace, direction, and healing. He reminds the congregation that God invites everyone to come and hide under His wings, offering protection from life's challenges and the enemy's accusations. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper reliance on God through prayer and a recognition of His constant love and care.
(John - Part 27): The Material Kingdom and the Spiritual Kingdom
By A.W. Tozer4.3K48:04ExpositionalEXO 16:15JHN 5:24JHN 6:27JHN 6:31JAS 2:191JN 5:10In this sermon, the preacher discusses the similarities between the physical world we live in and the spiritual world of God's presence. He uses the example of the four living creatures described in Ezekiel's vision to illustrate this point. The preacher emphasizes how our language and thinking are influenced by the physical world around us, but reminds us that there is another world beyond the material realm. He warns against adopting a philosophy that focuses solely on physical needs and urges listeners to seek the presence of God in their lives.
Graveyard Revival
By David Wilkerson3.8K47:57RevivalMAT 8:28MAT 21:12MRK 4:39MRK 5:6LUK 8:27JHN 1:1JAS 2:19In this sermon, the preacher describes a man who is stripped of everything and living in a state of madness. The man is tormented by the devil and engages in self-destructive behavior. Society has nothing to offer him, as no one can tame him. However, Jesus arrives and calms the man, demonstrating his power and authority over evil. The preacher emphasizes that this story holds a prophetic truth, showing the deliverance and transformation that can occur when one gives their heart to Jesus.
(Through the Bible) Mark 1
By Chuck Smith1.9K37:25ISA 40:3MAL 3:1MAT 5:21MRK 1:4JAS 2:19In this sermon, the speaker discusses the natural inclination to share the work of God in one's life. Witnessing becomes a natural response when God has done a marvelous work in someone's life. The speaker emphasizes that witnessing should not be a programmed or forced activity, but rather a genuine expression of gratitude for what God has done. The sermon also touches on the baptism of Jesus, highlighting the presence of the three persons of the Godhead - the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Too Much Riding on Eternity (Part 1 of 2)
By Paul Washer1.6K53:35MAT 7:12CO 13:5PHP 1:6JAS 2:192PE 1:20In this sermon, the speaker highlights the importance of ministers of Jesus Christ being willing to confront and address the spiritual condition of individuals in the congregation. He emphasizes that this may not be well-received in American culture, where people are often thin-skinned and sensitive to criticism. However, the speaker argues that such confrontation is an act of love and necessary for the spiritual growth and well-being of believers. The sermon also touches on the misconception that salvation is a mere label or identification as a Christian, emphasizing that true salvation is a supernatural work of God and should result in a transformed life. The speaker concludes by urging the congregation to worship God wholeheartedly and with all their strength.
God Chooses and Uses Nobodies
By Zac Poonen1.5K1:04:13JOB 42:10PRO 3:5ISA 40:31MAT 5:3JHN 1:12ROM 9:161CO 4:7GAL 6:3JAS 2:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of being poor in spirit, recognizing that all blessings and abilities come from God. It warns against the dangers of spiritual pride and the need to constantly humble oneself before God, acknowledging that everything received is a gift from Him. The speaker uses the example of Job to illustrate the transformation that occurs when one moves from pride to humility, leading to a double portion of blessings from God.
New Covenant - Superior to the Law - Part 4
By Zac Poonen1.2K09:48PRO 3:5MAT 5:482TI 2:6HEB 11:6JAS 2:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of diligently seeking God and working hard in the spiritual journey, drawing parallels to the effort people put into achieving worldly goals. It highlights the need to work hard to understand and apply the principles of the Bible, stressing that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him. The speaker encourages believers to strive for spiritual growth and maturity, comparing it to the progression through different academic levels, aiming for perfection at each stage.
Heart-Faith and Not Mind-Faith - Part 4
By Zac Poonen1.1K10:051SA 17:52PRO 3:5MRK 9:23ROM 6:14ROM 10:91CO 15:17HEB 11:6JAS 2:19JAS 3:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of true faith in God, contrasting mere mental belief with heartfelt conviction. It warns against being absorbed in religious activities without genuine connection to God and highlights the significance of believing in the resurrection of Jesus for salvation. The message stresses the need to have faith in the heart, not just the mind, and to understand that Jesus conquering death is the solution to all our problems, making it crucial to seek God and trust in His power to overcome life's challenges.
What's Wrong With the Gospel? Part 2
By Keith Green1.0K57:20EZK 36:22MAT 5:48ACT 2:41ACT 4:31JAS 2:19This sermon delves into the shortcomings of the modern gospel, highlighting the focus on self-centeredness, shallow conversions, and a bargain-like approach to salvation. It emphasizes the need for true repentance, a deeper understanding of God's holiness, and a shift from seeking personal blessings to honoring and serving God. The importance of genuine conversion, humility, and devotion to God's teachings is underscored through comparisons with the early church in Acts.
Faith Without Works Is Dead
By Joshua Daniel90728:30JAS 2:19This sermon by Joshua Daniel emphasizes the importance of faith and works, highlighting real-life challenges faced with unwavering faith in God. It shares powerful testimonies of transformed lives and the impact of genuine faith in action. The message encourages believers to step out in faith, trust in God's provision, and live a life that glorifies Him, focusing on the abundant life Jesus offers. It also addresses misconceptions about salvation by works and the necessity of faith in Jesus' sacrifice for salvation.
The Jezebel Seduction
By Shane Idleman63339:07MAT 7:21JAS 2:19REV 2:20REV 19:15This sermon delves into the Jezebel Seduction, exploring the historical context of Queen Jezebel's influence on idol worship and sexual immorality. It emphasizes the need for believers to hold fast to their faith amidst seductive influences, warning against allowing false teachings and compromising with sin. The sermon highlights the imminent return of Jesus as a powerful and just ruler, urging listeners to be prepared and not be deceived by intellectual knowledge alone.
Dependency (Times of Refreshing Radio)
By Peter Brandon429:29Dependency on GodFaithJHN 3:16JHN 5:24ROM 10:9ROM 15:13EPH 2:8JAS 2:19Peter Brandon discusses the concept of dependency on God, emphasizing the importance of true belief that goes beyond intellectual acknowledgment to heartfelt trust in Jesus Christ. He illustrates this through the analogy of a patient relying on a surgeon, highlighting that faith involves knowing, trusting, and relying on Christ for salvation. Brandon encourages listeners to take their faith off the bottom, just as a child must trust a life belt in the water, and to believe in the promises of God for eternal life. He reassures that true belief leads to everlasting life and encourages everyone to accept Jesus as their Savior.
Truth Has a Soul
By A.W. Tozer0Revelation of ChristAuthentic FaithMAT 11:27JHN 14:6ROM 10:92CO 5:17JAS 2:19A.W. Tozer emphasizes that faith can exist in the form of mere adherence to biblical texts, yet remain lifeless without a genuine connection to the soul of truth. He references Matthew 11 to illustrate that true knowledge of God comes through revelation by the Son, highlighting the necessity of experiencing the transformative power of God in our lives. Tozer argues that what many call revival is actually a return to authentic New Testament Christianity, where individuals move from mere belief in doctrine to a personal faith in Christ. This shift leads to true salvation and a vibrant relationship with God, rather than a superficial understanding of faith.
Misinformed Zeal
By A.W. Tozer0ZealDiscernment in FaithMAT 7:21JHN 4:24ROM 10:21CO 13:1GAL 4:18PHP 3:62TI 3:5TIT 2:14JAS 2:19REV 3:15A.W. Tozer addresses the concept of zeal in the Christian life, emphasizing that while true Christians should exhibit fervent zeal for God, it is possible to be zealous without being genuinely Christian. He critiques the notion that zeal alone is a marker of godliness, pointing out that many zealous individuals or groups, such as Jehovah's Witnesses and other religions, demonstrate fervor but are not aligned with biblical truth. Tozer warns that zeal must be accompanied by sound doctrine and a true relationship with Christ, as mere enthusiasm does not equate to righteousness. He highlights that even those with misguided zeal can be more fervent than true believers, underscoring the need for discernment in evaluating spiritual fervor.
No Breath No Life.
By Horatius Bonar0The Role of the Holy SpiritSpiritual VitalityISA 64:6EZK 37:8MAT 7:22JHN 3:6JHN 20:22ACT 1:8ROM 8:112CO 5:17GAL 2:20JAS 2:19Horatius Bonar emphasizes the necessity of the 'breath of life' in the spiritual life of individuals and congregations, using Ezekiel 37:8 to illustrate that mere appearance or sound doctrine is insufficient without the Holy Spirit's life-giving presence. He outlines four stages of spiritual renewal, highlighting that a church or individual may seem alive yet lack true vitality if they do not possess the Spirit. Bonar warns against self-deception, where one may mistake orthodoxy, religious practices, or good works for genuine faith. He concludes that without the breath of life, all efforts are in vain, leading to an imperfect, unhappy, and unsuccessful existence. The sermon calls for a deep, personal connection with God to truly embody the Christian life.
On Conversion
By Thomas Reade0PSA 51:10ROM 6:6ROM 10:102CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:8PHP 1:21JAS 2:191JN 1:9REV 3:20Thomas Reade preaches on the profound transformation that occurs in the conversion of a sinner, highlighting the battle between the love of the creature and the love of the Creator, and the barriers of unbelief, pride, and prejudice that hinder acceptance of Jesus. Through sovereign grace and the power of the Holy Spirit, a sinner's heart is opened to receive Christ, leading to a complete change in desires and perspectives. The sermon emphasizes the necessity of genuine faith that purifies the heart and aligns one's life with the teachings of Christianity, contrasting it with mere intellectual assent to biblical truths.
Letters on Revival--No. 3.
By Charles Finney0True SubmissionUnderstanding SinMAT 22:37JHN 15:5ROM 3:231CO 13:42CO 5:17GAL 5:22EPH 2:8PHP 3:10JAS 2:191JN 4:8Charles Finney addresses the need for a deeper understanding of sin and true submission to God among believers, emphasizing that many have been urged to repent and serve without comprehending the essence of pure religion, which is rooted in love and faith. He critiques the legalistic approach to faith that focuses on resolutions rather than a genuine relationship with Christ, leading to superficial conversions. Finney warns against the extremes of Antinomianism and legality, urging ministers to help individuals grasp their true spiritual condition and the necessity of a heartfelt connection with God.
Of Faith in God.
By John Gill0WorshipFaithJHN 14:1ROM 10:17EPH 2:8HEB 11:1JAS 2:19John Gill emphasizes the critical role of faith in God and Christ as the foundation of true worship and internal religion. He explains that faith is essential for prayer, understanding the gospel, and participating in the ordinances of the church, such as baptism and communion. Gill categorizes different types of faith, including historical, temporary, and saving faith, and highlights that true faith is rooted in a personal relationship with God and Christ. He stresses that faith must be active, involving knowledge, assent, love, and trust in Christ as the Savior. Ultimately, Gill asserts that faith is a gift from God, necessary for salvation and a life of obedience.
Faith
By Harmon A. Baldwin0MAT 7:21ACT 15:8ROM 10:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:81TH 5:23HEB 11:1JAS 2:191JN 5:10Harmon A. Baldwin preaches about the importance of genuine faith in the process of salvation and sanctification, emphasizing the need to distinguish between true faith and its counterfeit forms. He highlights that faith is not merely mental assent or resting on promises, but a deep, transformative trust in God's power to cleanse and purify the heart. Baldwin warns against misconceptions such as believing without evidence or relying on easy-going feelings, stressing the necessity of a Spirit-filled life and true surrender to God's work of sanctification.
The Faith That Justifies
By Barton W. Johnson0MRK 16:16JHN 3:18ACT 16:31ROM 5:1ROM 10:10HEB 11:6JAS 2:191JN 5:4Barton W. Johnson preaches on the foundational truth of justification by faith, emphasizing that it is through faith that we are declared righteous before God, contrasting it with the erroneous belief of justification through works. He highlights the crucial role of faith in salvation, stating that without faith, it is impossible to please God and that unbelief leads to condemnation. Johnson addresses objections to this principle, explaining that beliefs shape our lives and determine our eternal destiny, illustrating that true faith in Jesus Christ leads to a transformed life and peace with God.
Day 68, Mark 3
By David Servant0PSA 111:10MRK 3:5MRK 3:11MRK 3:22MRK 3:29JHN 5:191CO 12:11HEB 2:4JAS 2:19David Servant delves into the miraculous account of Jesus healing the man with the withered hand, emphasizing it as a creative miracle that showcased the power and authority of Jesus. Despite witnessing such incredible miracles, the Pharisees and scribes displayed hardened hearts, even going as far as attributing Jesus' works to Satan, leading to Jesus warning about the sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit. Mark highlights the contrast between the demons' compelled confession of Jesus as the Son of God and the free will of human beings to accept or reject Him, urging all to fear God and acknowledge His greatness.
On Believing With the Heart
By Charles Finney0Trust in GodFaithPRO 3:5ROM 10:10HEB 11:1JAS 2:19Charles Finney emphasizes the distinction between intellectual faith and heart faith, arguing that true faith involves a deep, voluntary commitment of oneself to God, which leads to righteousness. He explains that while intellectual faith may acknowledge truths, it often lacks the transformative power of heart faith, which is rooted in love and trust. Finney illustrates that heart faith is essential for understanding God, especially in the face of mystery and contradictory evidence, and it is characterized by a willingness to believe without needing to comprehend all the reasons. He encourages believers to cultivate this heart faith, which naturally leads to obedience and a deeper relationship with God, despite life's uncertainties. Ultimately, Finney calls for a simple, voluntary act of trust in God, urging individuals to commit themselves fully to Him.
Submitting to Christ's Lordship
By A.W. Tozer0ObedienceLordship Of ChristMAT 7:21MAT 28:20LUK 6:46JHN 14:15JHN 15:14ROM 6:15GAL 5:13JAS 2:191PE 1:141JN 2:3A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true Christianity requires a humble obedience to Christ's teachings, challenging the notion that faith alone, without adherence to His commandments, suffices for salvation. He references Luke 6:46, where Jesus questions why people call Him 'Lord' yet fail to follow His commands. Tozer argues that the belief that one can be a Christian without obedience has diluted the evangelical message and moral standards within the Church. He warns that this misunderstanding of grace leads to erroneous conclusions about the nature of faith and obedience. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a return to a faith that is active and obedient to Christ's lordship.
Possess, Not Only Profess
By C.H. Spurgeon0Spiritual AbundanceGenuine FaithPSA 37:4MAT 13:12ROM 12:2GAL 5:22EPH 3:20PHP 1:9HEB 11:1JAS 2:192PE 1:51JN 4:18C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of possessing genuine faith rather than merely professing it, highlighting that true faith leads to an abundance of grace from God. He warns that superficial faith will ultimately be stripped away, urging believers to ensure their faith is real and deep. Spurgeon encourages the faithful to seek a greater depth of love and trust in God, as true possession of grace leads to spiritual abundance. He expresses a desire for increased hatred of sin, deeper faith, and a fervent love for God, recognizing that these are gifts that come from a genuine relationship with Him.
Receiving Divine Chastisement
By A.W. Pink0PSA 146:5MAT 7:22ACT 17:18ROM 1:201CO 10:20JAS 2:19REV 9:20In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of deities, focusing on the idea of demons or evil spirits with supernatural powers that are neither human nor divine. The preacher explains that 'daimonion' was used in pagan Greek writings to refer to inferior divine beings and emphasizes that demons are spiritual agents associated with idolatry. The sermon delves into how demons deceive and tempt individuals, their recognition of Christ's authority, and their future role in the end times according to the Bible.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Thou believest that there is one God - This is the faith in which these persons put their hope of pleasing God, and of obtaining eternal life. Believing in the being and unity of God distinguished them from all the nations of the world; and having been circumcised, and thus brought into the covenant, they thought themselves secure of salvation. The insufficiency of this St. James immediately shows. The devils also believe, and tremble - It is well to believe there is one only true God; this truth universal nature proclaims. Even the devils believe it; but far from justifying or saving them, it leaves them in their damned state, and every act of it only increases their torment; φρισσουσι, they shudder with horror, they believe and tremble, are increasingly tormented; but they can neither love nor obey.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Thou--emphatic. Thou self-deceiving claimant to faith without works. that there is one God--rather, "that God is one": God's existence, however, is also asserted. The fundamental article of the creed of Jews and Christians alike, and the point of faith on which especially the former boasted themselves, as distinguishing them from the Gentiles, and hence adduced by James here. thou doest well--so far good. But unless thy faith goes farther than an assent to this truth, "the evil spirits (literally, 'demons': 'devil' is the term restricted to Satan, their head) believe" so far in common with thee, "and (so far from being saved by such a faith) shudder (so the Greek)," Mat 8:29; Luk 4:34; Pe2 2:4; Jde 1:6; Rev 20:10. Their faith only adds to their torment at the thought of having to meet Him who is to consign them to their just doom: so thine (Heb 10:26-27, it is not the faith of love, but of fear, that hath torment, Jo1 4:18).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Thou believest that there is one God,.... These words are a continuation of the address of the man that has works, to him that boasts of his faith without them, observing to him, that one, and a main article of his faith, is, that there is one God; which is to be understood in the Christian sense, since both the person speaking, and the person spoken to, were such as professed themselves Christians; so that to believe there is one God, is not merely to give into this article, in opposition to the polytheism of the Gentiles, or barely to confess the God of Israel, as believed on by the Jews, but to believe that there are three persons, Father, Son, and Spirit, and that these three are the one God; wherefore this article of faith includes everything relating to God; as to God the Father, his being and perfections, so to Christ, as God, and the Son of God, and the Messiah, &c. and to the Holy Spirit; and to believe all this is right: thou doest well; for that there is but one God, is to be proved by the light of nature, and from the works of creation and providence, and has been owned by the wisest of the Heathens themselves; and is established, by divine revelation, in the books both of the Old and of the New Testament; what has been received by the Jews, and is well known by Christians, to whom it is set in the clearest light, and who are assured of the truth of it: but then the devils also believe; the Arabic version reads, "the devils likewise so believe"; they believe the same truth; they know and believe there is but one God, and not many; and they know that the God of Israel is he; and that the Father, Son, and Spirit, are the one God; they know and believe him to be the most high God, whose servants the ministers of the Gospel are; and they know and believe that Jesus is the Holy One of God, the Son of God, and the Messiah, Act 16:17. And tremble; at the wrath of God, which they now feel, and at the thought of future torments, which they expect, Mar 5:7 and which is more than some men do; and yet these shall not be saved, their damnation is certain and inevitable, Pe2 2:4 wherefore it follows, that a bare historical faith will not profit, and cannot save any; a man may have all faith of this kind, and be damned; and therefore it is not to be boasted of, nor trusted to.