9/22/14- James 2

14What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? 15Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. 16If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? 17In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. (James 2) 

Thoughts: Some say that this passage that says "faith without action is dead" contrasts with Paul's teaching that "by grace we are saved not by works so that no one can boast."  But the two help fine tune how faith and works go together.  We are saved not because we work hard or are good- but by God's grace.  However, God's same grace enables our faith to be real by showing itself by doing good.  Paul speaks of salvation- and James speaks of evidence that the faith is real.  They compliment each other. 

Prayer: Lord, save me by your grace, but let my life bear fruit for you too.