Faith and its Accompanying Works- James 2:18 (ESV)

…Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.

James is addressing those who claimed to have faith, but their action indicated otherwise. Faith is intangible. It can not be seen by others in and of itself. In order for faith to be noticed by others, it must have accompanying works. The work performed by the person of faith evidences that faith to others.

Genuine (saving ) faith can be observed by others through the works (deeds) it produces. The old adage, action speaks louder than words is the whole point that James is getting at in this verse. Do people notice your faith by your actions? In other words, can people tell that you are a Christian by your works? While works do not save a person, James is saying that works are evidence of your faith and salvation.

James appears to be issuing a challenge here. He is not advocating a works-based salvation. Salvation is by faith in Christ alone. James is saying that a saving faith is a working faith.

“Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.”

Perhaps you have never trusted Christ as your Lord and Savior. If you are counting on your works or your perceived natural goodness to save you, you will be in for quite a shock on Judgment Day. If that’s you, trust in Christ today. Ask Jesus to be your Lord and Savior. Then after you are saved, demonstrate your faith by your works.