Abraham our father – was he not justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? Truth to Learn It is our works of obedience to God which demonstrate that our saving faith is genuine. Behind the Words “Father” is translated from the Greek word patēr, which...
James 2:20 – A Fool Without Works
But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is useless? Truth to Learn God calls all true believers to do good works. Behind the Words “Want” (“will” in some translations) is translated from thelō, which refers to the will of man (the determined will). It...
James 2:19 – One God Faith
You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! Truth to Learn Faith is necessary for salvation, but what you have faith in is crucial, and the proof of that faith will be your good works. Behind the Words The word here translated as...
James 2:18 – Evidence in Action
But someone will say, "You have faith, and I have works." Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. Truth to Learn Good works are the evidence of our salvation. Behind the Words The word translated “someone” is the Greek word...
James 2:17 – Works of Evidence
So also faith, if it should not have works, is dead by itself. Truth to Learn A living, breathing faith in Christ is always accompanied by good works, for these works are the evidence that it is a living faith. Behind the Words “So also” is translated from houtōs kai,...
James 2:16 – Are You Rich?
and one of you should say to them, "Go in peace, be warmed and filled," but you would not give to them the things which are needed for the body, what is the gain? Truth to Learn True faith in Christ is made evident by what we do, not what...
James 2:15 – The Invisible Poor
If a brother or sister is naked and should be lacking daily food, Truth to Learn We often don’t even notice those members of our church having the greatest needs. Behind the Words “If” is translated from the Greek word ean, which is used here (along with the subjunctive mood...
James 2:14 – Profitable Works
What is the gain, my brothers, if someone should say he has faith and not have works? Is that faith able to save him? Truth to Learn There is no evidence of saving faith unless it is demonstrated by works. Behind the Words “Gain” is translated from the Greek word...
James 2:13 – Merciless Judgment
For judgment will be without mercy to the one not having shown mercy. Mercy rejoices over judgment. Truth to Learn Our merciful actions in this life will have eternal results. Behind the Words The word “judgment” is translated from krisis, which literally refers to a separation, hence a dividing between...
James 2:12 – Active Evidence
So speak and so do as those who are about to be judged by the law of liberty. Truth to Learn Our words and actions should be an indication of the freedom we have in Christ. Behind the Words “So” is a translation of the Greek word houtōs, which is...