Faith is Proved by Works

James 2:19–26
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I’m tired of hootenanny religion, the new brand of Christianity that pagans do not feel embarrassed to join, I’m tired of Batman, the Beatniks, the Beatles, the God is dead movement, the new morality, situation ethics, existentialism, and the latest theological discussions out … More

Faith

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:

The existence of God (They are neither atheists or agnostics)
The deity of Christ (Mk 3:11-12)
The existence of a place of punishment (Lk. 8:31)
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 (English Standard Version)

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