Good Works Prove Our Faith
On Sunday, one of our elders, Norm Pond, continued our Who Am I Becoming? series in the book of James. James 2:14-26 challenges us to examine the authenticity of our faith by looking at the fruit it produces in our lives. It’s not enough to simply claim faith with our words or to intellectually agree with the truths of Christianity. True, saving faith is always accompanied by action—by works that flow naturally from a heart that trusts Jesus. The book of James presses us to consider whether our faith is merely a claim or a living reality that transforms how we live, love, and serve.
This passage of scripture begins with a crucial question: “What good is it if someone says he has faith but does not have works?” This isn’t about earning salvation through our deeds but about the evidence of genuine faith. Just as a resume or a job interview can be filled with empty claims, so too can our spiritual lives be filled with words that lack substance if not backed by action. James warns that a faith without works is dead—a hollow shell that cannot save.
We explored the three kinds of faith: knowledge (knowing about God), agreement (assenting to the truth), and trust (placing our lives in God’s hands). Only the third type of faith, trust, results in a living faith that produces good works. Even demons have the first two kinds of faith, but what sets believers apart is a willingness to trust and obey.
James uses Abraham and Rahab as examples, showing that their faith was made complete by their actions. This doesn’t contradict Paul’s teaching that we are saved by grace through faith; rather, it clarifies that true faith is never alone—it always results in a changed life. Works are not the root of our salvation, but they are the fruit.
For some, the challenge is to move beyond empty claims and let faith transform their actions. For others, it’s a warning not to rely on good deeds alone without a surrendered heart. And for those who already trust Jesus, it’s a call to let that trust overflow into every area of life, even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient. God has prepared good works for us to walk in, and our joy and fulfillment are found in saying “yes” to Him.
Reflection Questions
- Norm compared claiming faith without works to lying on a resume. Are there areas in your life where you are “claiming” faith but not living it out? What would it look like to bring your actions in line with your words this week?
- Norm described three kinds of faith: knowledge, agreement, and trust. Which of these best describes your current relationship with God? What would it take for you to move toward deeper trust?
- James warns that faith without works is dead, but also that works without faith are empty. Have you ever found yourself relying on good deeds to feel right with God, rather than surrendering your heart? How can you shift from self-reliance to genuine trust in Jesus?
- Norm challenged believers to say “yes” to the good works God has prepared, even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient. Can you think of a recent time when you felt nudged by the Holy Spirit to act, but hesitated? What held you back, and what could help you respond differently next time?
- Norm mentioned that our conscience, shaped by the Holy Spirit, nudges us toward obedience. Is there a specific area where you feel God prompting you to step out in faith? What practical step could you take this week to follow that prompting?
Watch the Message
Worship Songs from June 22
- “Great Things”
- “King Of Kings”
- “There Is A King”
- “Agnus Dei”