James 2:9-19

9 But if you treat people according to their outward appearance, you are guilty of sin, and the Law condemns you as a lawbreaker.
10 Whoever breaks one commandment is guilty of breaking them all.
11 For the same one who said, "Do not commit adultery," also said, "Do not commit murder." Even if you do not commit adultery, you have become a lawbreaker if you commit murder. 1
12 Speak and act as people who will be judged by the law that sets us free.
13 For God will not show mercy when he judges the person who has not been merciful; but mercy triumphs over judgment.
14 My friends, what good is it for one of you to say that you have faith if your actions do not prove it? Can that faith save you?
15 Suppose there are brothers or sisters who need clothes and don't have enough to eat.
16 What good is there in your saying to them, "God bless you! Keep warm and eat well!" - if you don't give them the necessities of life?
17 So it is with faith: if it is alone and includes no actions, then it is dead.
18 But someone will say, "One person has faith, another has actions." My answer is, "Show me how anyone can have faith without actions. I will show you my faith by my actions."
19 Do you believe that there is only one God? Good! The demons also believe - and tremble with fear.

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Cross References 1

  • 1. 2.11 aExodus 20.14;Deuteronomy 5.18; bExodus 20.13;Deuteronomy 5.17.
Scripture taken from the Good News Translation - Second Edition, Copyright 1992 by American Bible Society. Used by Permission.