James 2:17

17 In the same way, faith is dead when it doesn't result in faithful activity.

James 2:17 Meaning and Commentary

James 2:17

Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.
] It is like a lifeless carcass, a body without a soul, ( James 2:26 ) for as works, without faith, are dead works, so faith, without works, is a dead faith, and not like the lively hope and faith of regenerated persons: and indeed, such who have no other faith than this are dead in trespasses and sins; not that works are the life of faith, or that the life of faith lies in, and flows from works; but, as Dr. Ames observes ^F2, good works are second acts, necessarily flowing from the life of faith; to which may be added, and by these faith appears to be living, lively and active, or such who perform them appear to be true and living believers.

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FOOTNOTES:

F2 Medulla Theolog. l. 2. c. 7. sect. 35.

James 2:17 In-Context

15 Imagine a brother or sister who is naked and never has enough food to eat.

16 What if one of you said, "Go in peace! Stay warm! Have a nice meal!"? What good is it if you don't actually give them what their body needs?

17 In the same way, faith is dead when it doesn't result in faithful activity.

18 Someone might claim, "You have faith and I have action." But how can I see your faith apart from your actions? Instead, I'll show you my faith by putting it into practice in faithful action.

19 It's good that you believe that God is one. Ha! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble with fear.