Faith is Proved by Works

Topic: Faith
Passage: James 2:19–26

November 22, 2022

Commentary

It might come as a shock that demons have faith, “Even the demons believe and tremble” (v. 19). But it is not a saving experience to believe and tremble. The following are some things they believe:

  1. The existence of God (They are neither atheists or agnostics)
  2. The deity of Christ (Mk 3:11-12)
  3. The existence of a place of punishment (Lk. 8:31)
  4. Jesus Christ as judge (Mk 5:1-13).

True saving faith involves a changed life (II Cor. 5:17). “Show me thy faith without thy works” challenged James, “and I will show thee my faith by my works” (v. 18). Action begins when faith is demonstrated and we see in this passage two examples. Abraham’s faith was proved by his willingness to sacrifice his son Isaac as God had instructed (vv. 20-23). Rahab was prepared to risk all when she sheltered the spies sent to spy out the Promised Land (vv.24- 25).

Faith and deeds (or actions) are essential to each other just like the body and the  spirit. Apart from the spirit or the “breath” of life our body is dead (v. 26). In the same way, apart from the evidence of works our faith is dead. “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Heb. 11:6).

Application

What am I really doing by faith? It is so easy to try to figure everything out myself.

James 2:19– 26 (NET)

19 You believe that God is one; well and good. Even the demons believe that—and tremble with fear.

20 But would you like evidence, you empty fellow, that faith without works is useless? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? 22 You see that his faith was working together with his works and his faith was perfected by works. 23 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Now Abraham believed God and it was counted to him for righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend. 24 You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. 25 And similarly, was not Rahab the prostitute also justified by works when she welcomed the messengers and sent them out by another way? 26 For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.