Pastor Chris’ Corona Quarantine Epistles to the Flock of AIC Ngong Road, in Dispersion and Isolation. 51st. Edition.
Dear Saints,
Today we begin a controversial but important section of James’ letter – the dialectic between faith and works. Because this has been misunderstood and misrepresented so often, it is my hope that we can clarify the matter. The first part that we deal with today (2:14-19) is the argument for Faith-Based Works, while the section we will deal with tomorrow gives us two illustrations of the same.
Dead Faith (vv. 14-17). The argument of James here is that faith is not a mere declaration. The declaration should be accompanied by works. Wishing a naked, hungry person warmth and satisfaction helps them none. I have nothing to show that I actually wish them well unless I make an effort (works) to help them out of their predicament. In the same way, the lack of benevolent action proves my compassion false, the lack of works proves faith dead.
Demonstrated Faith (v. 18). It can be argued that a claim to faith is just that – a claim. One can argue until one is blue in the face but unless there are works accompanying the claim of faith, the claim is a waste of time and energy. Put in other words, the proof of saving faith is a transformed life.
Demonic Faith (v. 19). Faith is not simply the intellectual assent to facts. If it were that, demons would be believers. Not only do they believe there is one God, but they also quake at the fact. But that does not save them. The difference between an angel and a demon is not the belief in the existence of God but in what they do.
Likewise, if all you do is believe the facts, you are no better than the demons. Where is the change?
Your loving Pastor Chris