James 2: 18, New International Version

“…Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.”

James speaks with clarity and conviction in this passage, addressing one of the most important questions we can ask as believers: What kind of faith truly saves? He begins with a challenge: “What good is it… if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds?” (v. 14). James isn’t downplaying the importance of faith—he’s defining what real faith looks like. A faith that’s alive will always move. It will always act. It’s not enough to say we believe, that belief must shape the way we live.

James gives practical examples. If someone is hungry or cold and we simply say, “Go in peace, be warm and well fed,” but do nothing to help—that’s not love, and that’s not real faith. Words alone aren’t enough. Real faith sees a need and responds. It’s not about earning salvation through good works—it’s about proving that our salvation is real. Our actions flow from our trust in Christ. If there’s no fruit, we have to ask whether the root is alive.

He points to Abraham and Rahab—two people from completely different backgrounds—yet both are honored for their faith that moved into action. Abraham trusted God so deeply that he was willing to place Isaac on the altar. Rahab believed God’s promises and risked her life to protect His people. Their stories remind us that faith is not passive. It steps forward even when the road is uncertain. It obeys even when the cost is high.

James doesn’t contradict Paul’s teaching on salvation by grace through faith. Instead, he complements it. Paul focuses on how we are made right with God—by faith alone. James shows us what that kind of faith looks like once it takes root in our lives. True faith doesn’t sit still. It loves, it serves, it gives, it forgives. It bears the image of Jesus in real, tangible ways.

So, the question for each of us is this: Is our faith alive? Are we walking it out in obedience, love, and service? Not perfectly—but intentionally. May we be people whose faith doesn’t just speak but moves—because that’s the kind of faith that reflects the heart of Christ and brings glory to God.