Know

In this section we see the most potent treatment of the concept we are calling ‘trust translated’.  James has already hinted at this concept in chapter 1 while calling for the doing of the word.  In that context James contrasted hearing with doing.  One should not simply hear the word, and be deceived into thinking that one is doing it as well.  Rather, one must hear it and do it.  It is the doer who is blessed by God.

            In this section James contrasts faith and deeds.  In the history of the Church this section has been difficult to understand, because James seems to be contradicting Paul regarding faith and works.  But this could not be further from the truth.  In fact, it is most likely that James wrote this before Paul wrote any of his letters, and rather than contradicting Paul, James is fleshing out to his people something similar to Jesus’ words in Matthew 12:36-37,

³⁶ But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken.  ³⁷ For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.

            James’ words are especially important for our culture, which by and large believes that ‘faith’ is a personal matter, and that it ought not have any influence on the rest of life.  This belief is the theology of demons.  James here is arguing that mere mental grasp or assent to biblical ideas is the theology of demons.  This type of faith is not saving faith.  If it were, then all demons would be saved for they believe there is one God.

            James forges a link between faith and deeds.  Faith and deeds are distinguishable, but not separable.  The one who simply has a mental assent (‘faith’) to God will not be justified by God in the last day.  This type of faith is worthless.  Unfortunately it is this type of faith which most Americans possess.  They believe that there is one God, but that belief is not translated into life.  Simply talking about God and saying one believes in God is not the type of faith that honors God. Those who have this type of faith are deceived, and will receive the punishment of demons.

            The faith that honors God is a faith that is translated into life.  It is a faith that produces coherence between belief and action.  It is this type of faith that brings about a declaration of righteousness for a repentant prostitute.  This type of faith lives.

Do

First, examine yourself.  Does your life reflect an allegiance to Jesus in all areas of your life?  If so, be of good cheer and persevere in this faith.  But if you simply see faith as something that can be boxed up and contained, only to be let out on Sunday morning, and it does not affect your speech, your marriage, your parenting, your working, your resting, your entertainment, your sporting, your loving, then be filled with dread, and repent, because your faith is not different from that of demons.

Second, use the connection between faith and deeds as a starting point for talking to others about Jesus.  In a non-offensive manner, show them how a belief in God should transform life.  Gently show the inconsistencies between their belief in God and their life, and then lead them to see the true faith, the faith accompanied by deeds.

Third, remember Jesus’ words, “If you love me, you will obey what I have commanded” (John 14:15, NIV).