Faith Without Works Is Dead

But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?

James 2:20

James writes a practical gospel that, if followed, will produce desired results. Not to be misunderstood, faith is not the grounds of salvation, but rather a test of genuine Christianity. The works (actions) of the believer proves whether the gospel is truly believed.

Faith is a necessary component to salvation. Paul stresses that without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). No amount of emotional ritual can move an Almighty God, only faith. In fact, when the glory of God descends in the midst of the saints, He is searching for faith (Luke 18:8).

Faith in God must have a practicum. The Word of God must be believed (received in the spirit as truth) and then applied. Simply stated Apostle James details if one is afflicted — pray and if sickness is present — call for the elders of church. The anointed prayer of faith will bring deliverance and the Lord will raise the infirmed (James 5:14-15).

The Apostle states emphatically that “faith without works is dead.” Faith is only genuine when action (works) follows that which is believed. Abraham was instructed by God to leave his homeland and journey to place not yet disclosed by God. Abraham’s works (faith) caused him to obey and move at God’s command. And because Abraham believed God, righteousness was imputed (attributed) to him (James 2:23).

Like Father Abraham, the saints of God can be called a “friend of God” and righteousness accredited to our account when the word of God is applied for daily living. Adversities and trials of life will be transformed into victories and strength for holy living when faith produces works that attest to a true and living God.