So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
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James 2:17
Many admire those who do wonderful works such as feeding the hungry, building homes for the homeless, or holding clothing drives for the poor. Some may say, “If anyone goes to Heaven, it’s the people who do those kinds of things.” And they could be partly right.
Today’s verse declares faith without works is dead, but works without faith are just as dead. Paul declares definitely that righteousness comes through faith in Christ. By faith, salvation is received. Then, out of love for and thanksgiving to the Lord, those who are saved yield themselves to His will to do good works. “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:8-10).
While believers are called to do good works, like offering food, clothing, comfort, or hospitality described in Matthew 25:35-36, salvation is through faith in Christ. Praise God for His salvation, then allow the Spirit to lead you to help others.
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