2:21 2:21

James 2:22

2:23 2:23

Bible Versions

Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?
Seest thou {G991} how {G3754} faith {G4102} wrought {G4903} with his {G846} works {G2041}, and {G2532} by {G1537} works {G2041} was {G5048} faith {G4102} made perfect {G5048}?
You see that his faith worked with his actions; by the actions the faith was made complete;
You see that his faith was working with his actions, and his faith was perfected by what he did.
Thou seest that faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect;

James 2:22 is a pivotal verse in the Apostle James's discourse on the relationship between faith and works, clarifying that genuine faith is never passive but always active and demonstrable through our deeds.

Context of James 2:22

This verse comes in the midst of James's robust argument against a purely intellectual or "dead" faith. He has just presented the example of Abraham, who was "justified by works, when he offered Isaac his son upon the altar" (James 2:21). James is challenging the idea that merely professing belief is sufficient for salvation, emphasizing that true faith must be accompanied by actions. He has already stated that "faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone."

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Synergy of Faith and Works: The verse explicitly states that "faith wrought with his works." The Greek word for "wrought with" (synergei) means to "work together with" or "cooperate." This highlights that faith and works are not opposing forces but complementary aspects of a vibrant spiritual life. Faith is the root, and works are the fruit.
  • Faith Made Complete/Perfect: James declares that "by works was faith made perfect." The Greek term eteleiothe, translated "made perfect," means to be brought to completion, maturity, or fulfillment. It does not imply that works add to the saving efficacy of faith, but rather that works are the ultimate demonstration and evidence that one's faith is real, mature, and alive. Just as a tree is "perfected" by bearing fruit, faith is "perfected" by producing good works.
  • Abraham's Example: Abraham's willingness to offer Isaac was not just a random act; it was the visible manifestation of his profound trust and obedience to God. His works confirmed the genuineness of his belief, showing that his faith was not merely intellectual assent but a living, active commitment. This aligns with Paul's teaching that we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "wrought with" comes from the Greek word synergei (συνήργει), which implies active cooperation and collaboration. This powerfully conveys that faith is not a solo act but an active principle that engages with and expresses itself through deeds. The term "made perfect" translates eteleiothe (ἐτελειώθη), which means to be brought to an end, finished, or completed. In this context, it signifies that works bring faith to its intended goal or demonstrate its full reality, rather than implying that works somehow complete a deficient faith for salvation.

Practical Application

For believers today, James 2:22 serves as a vital reminder that our faith should be visible and impactful. It challenges us to move beyond mere intellectual agreement with Christian doctrines and to actively live out our convictions. True faith transforms lives, leading to obedience, compassion, and righteous living. Our actions become a powerful testament to the reality of our relationship with God, confirming that our faith is not dead, but truly alive and active. It encourages us to ask ourselves: "Show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works."

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Thessalonians 1:3

    Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;

  • Hebrews 11:17

    By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten [son],

  • Hebrews 11:19

    Accounting that God [was] able to raise [him] up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.

  • Galatians 5:6

    For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.

  • 1 John 2:5

    But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.

  • James 2:18

    Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.

  • 1 John 4:17

    ¶ Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.
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