Romans 5:1 / James 2:24 – Justified by Faith and Works

Romans 5:1
1
 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

James 2:24
24 
Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.

-Justified by faith.  Justified by works.  At first glance, these two ideas seem to be at odds with one another.  How do we reconcile them?  Consider Ephesians 2:10, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.”  We are the products of the Lord’s work in salvation; redeemed not to sit idle, but to “walk in the good works.”  Those who do not walk in the works show no evidence that they are in fact “His workmanship.”  Faith is the presence of salvation, but works are the proof of salvation.  ”Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.  Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.” (James 2:17-18)

2 thoughts on “Romans 5:1 / James 2:24 – Justified by Faith and Works

    • Thanks for the feedback! Sorry it has taken me so long to read it. You are absolutely correct that James was writing to the Jews, specifically, he was writing to those Jews who had believed on Jesus Christ. James 2:2, “My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.” The early church would have been full of converted Jews since they received the Gospel first. I would call anyone who believes on Christ and orders their life according to the Bible a Christian.

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