For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.
James 2:26
The book of James, especially chapter 2, can be a real challenge for believers, often causing some confusion about the nature of salvation. But there is no contradiction from Jesus’ half-brother James as compared to other New Testament writers—or to Jesus Himself. Salvation is by grace alone through faith alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). Period. Through faith, we believe upon Jesus Christ (Acts 16:31)—and we surrender to Him as Lord. This latter part is key. We don’t just believe with head knowledge and keep on living the way we want, fulfilling our desires to glorify ourselves. Even the demons believe (James 2:19). Belief also isn’t just about emotional highs, like after an awesome worship set or weekend retreat. Feelings shift like sand and do not set a solid foundation for living. Instead, our faith in Jesus changes everything—because He changes everything about our life.
With all this in mind (and heart and soul), we do! We respond to God’s grace by demonstrating our faith.
First, believers are to love on another. Jesus tells us that by showing love to one another, other people will know we are His followers (John 13:35). It’s easy to think, “Yeah, I can do that—love my family, friends, other believers.” But Jesus also commands that we love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (Matthew 5:43-38). Ouch. This is where “loving others” transcends human capacity and requires the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit living in us via our salvation.
And we serve others. Old and New Testament alike exhort us to care for those in need. Yes, we pray. But whenever possible, we act (James 1:27). During His earthly ministry, Jesus taught in a very straightforward way that when we tangibly care for others, we are caring for Him (Matthew 25:31-46). We can’t just stand to the side as casual observers…we’ve got to get our hands dirty. The cool thing is that God gives us each spiritual gifts and unique personalities to fulfill our specific role of the Body of Christ (the Church)—so serving others will align with our passions and abilities, thereby bringing us immense joy as we serve others and glorify God (1 Peter 4:10-11).
Finally, we give generously. Everything we have—every good gift—is from God! All our money belongs to Him, we’re just His financial managers. And we’re called to be cheerful—literally, hilarious—givers (2 Corinthians 9:7). We extend generosity to others out of the generosity the Lord has lavished on us. Now, although we don’t give to receive, like some Name-it-claim-it preachers might tout, there is resulting joy and blessing to be received in the giving.
Bottom line? We are saved by grace through faith—not by doing good works. But, once surrendered to Jesus, our new reality (our freedom in Christ, our transformed nature, our unearned favor) will move us to do good. So, let’s get out there and do.
Lord, in our surrender to You, we are transformed. May we respond to the grace You extend by loving, serving, and giving for the good of others and to Your glory.
encouraged by grace 