Do you get caught in ‘proving’? Proving defined as a visible demonstration of … whatever you are wanting (needing) to prove. Reality says that the proving is primarily for yourself – not for others. This can become a block or stumbling stone if you feel that it is mandatory to be able to demonstrate. This also is true for new Christians. When someone gets saved, they can get caught up in wanting others to see their new status. And what’s the best proof? Tangible, visible works!
Problem… since we aren’t saved by works… what and how do works operate? What is their role? Yes, they are important but they emanate from the internal change. Works are a manifestation, the proof of who you are. James talks about the quality of ‘works’. He equates works with faith when he says (2:20), “…faith without works is dead…” Actually chapter 2, versus 14-26 indicates the depth of James thinking about works. 3 different times he says that faith without works is dead. At one point (2:18) he says…I will show you my faith by my works. There is no doubt that works are important… and expected.
Some people will use the words in Ephesians that we are saved by faith (2:8) as a basis for dismissing works. But that wasn’t the intent of Paul’s comments. He was focusing on the reality that faith is a gift God gives to us. He goes on to say 2:10 – “For we are His workmanship created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.”
There is no question that James emphasizes the importance of faith but he also is pointing out with examples from people’s lives that faith ‘works’ together with works (2:22). Works are meant to demonstrate. Faith is a gift… works are our response. It’s as simple as that and as profound. If you are a person of faith then you will be a person of works.
