Faith and Works

For the week of October 26 - November 1, 2025

FREE PREVIEW: James 2:14-26 - Faith and Works

This is a condensed preview of this week's full Bible study lesson, available exclusively to paid subscribers.

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Introduction

Few passages in the New Testament have caused more confusion than James 2:14-26. Some read this text and conclude that we're saved by our good works. Others struggle to reconcile James's teaching with Paul's clear statements about salvation by faith alone. But James isn't contradicting Paul—he's complementing him by showing what genuine, saving faith looks like in daily life.

James addresses a dangerous problem: people who claim to have faith but whose lives show no evidence of transformation. He argues that such "faith" isn't real faith at all—it's a dead substitute that cannot save.

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I. DEAD Faith Cannot Save

What good is it, my brothers, if a man says he has faith, but has no works? Can faith save him? (James 2:14).

James poses a crucial question about faith that produces no visible fruit. He's not asking whether faith can save—he's asking whether the kind of "faith" that never results in good works is actually saving faith at all.

II. DEMONSTRATED Faith Shows Life

But someone will say, "You have faith, and I have works." Show me your faith without works, and I by my works will show you my faith (James 2:18).

Real faith cannot be hidden—it naturally demonstrates itself through actions. James challenges anyone to prove they have genuine faith without showing works, while he promises to demonstrate faith through the works it produces.

III. DYNAMIC Faith Works Together

You see that faith worked with his works, and by works faith was perfected (James 2:22).

Using Abraham as an example, James shows that faith and works aren't enemies but partners. Faith provides the root; works provide the fruit. Together they create a dynamic relationship that pleases God and transforms lives.

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