Lord’s Library editors created this introductory guide to the Gospel in James to showcase how the Scriptures reveal salvation by grace through faith.
Though focusing mainly on the moral and ethical aspects of Christian living, the Epistle of James also provides a rich description of the implications of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The letter emphasizes the necessity of genuine faith, which is evidenced by good works, and how both mirror a life that reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ. Central to James is the message that true faith, which leads to salvation, is not merely an intellectual exercise but is demonstrated through actions.
James is unique because it showcases the relationship between faith and works. James famously asserts in James 2:17: “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” This statement clarifies that while faith alone is the means of salvation, genuine faith will naturally produce good works as evidence of its authenticity. James is not arguing contrary to the Pauline doctrine of justification by grace through faith but rather emphasizing that true faith is active and living, demonstrated through a life of attempted obedience.
The letter also focuses on practical aspects of Christian conduct. James admonishes believers in James 1:22: “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.”
This call to action underscores the necessity of applying the teachings of Jesus in everyday life, thus truly reflecting the transformation that the Gospel of Jesus Christ brought to them. James emphasizes that a mere intellectual belief is insufficient; it must be accompanied by a commitment to live according to God’s will.
The Gospel in James
The Gospel in James Showcased in Scripture
- James 1:17-18: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.”
James 1:17-18 emphasizes that every good and perfect gift comes from the Lord. It shows that God decided to give us new life through His true message (the Gospel), making us the first and special part of His creation.
- James 1:21: “Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.”
James 1:21 urges Christians to rid themselves of all moral filth and to humbly accept the Word implanted in them, which has the power to save their souls.
- James 2:5: “Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?”
James 2:5 tells us that God has chosen the poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom He promised to those who love Him.
- James 2:14-17: “What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.”
James 2:14-17 addresses the relationship between faith and works. It questions the value of faith without corresponding actions. The passage argues that if faith does not produce deeds (or “fruit”), it is dead, just as a body without the spirit is dead.
- James 4:6: “But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”
James 4:6 explains that God gives grace generously, but He opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble.
- James 5:15: “And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.”
This verse showcases the power of prayer offered in faith, not only to bring healing but also to restore spiritually.
While James places a strong emphasis on the relationship between faith and works, these verses underscore the importance of God’s grace, the power of the Word and Gospel, and the necessity of genuine faith. They complement the broader Biblical teaching on salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
The epistle speaks to the need for a total dependence on God as well. James advises in James 4:7: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” See still the Gospel truth of relying on God’s grace rather than one’s own will.
Lord's Library is a Christian resource hub. Our editors use a variety of internet research methods like search engines, audio and video, AI, consultations with ministry leaders in the field, and more. Lord's Library should never be a substitute for reading your Bible daily as the Scriptures are to be our final authority on all matters. Lord's Library participates in affiliate programs. We may make a small commission from products purchased through this resource.
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