Jimmy Akin, a podcast host and apologist, discusses the apparent contradiction between James and Paul's views on justification. They explore the different meanings of faith, works, and justification. James focuses on intellectual assent, while Paul emphasizes 'faith formed by charity'.
James and Paul use the terms 'faith,' 'works,' and 'justification' in different senses.
James emphasizes ongoing growth in righteousness while Paul focuses on initial justification and forgiveness.
Deep dives
Different meanings of faith, works, and justification
James and Paul use the terms 'faith,' 'works,' and 'justification' in different senses. James refers to intellectual assent to the truths of faith while Paul refers to faith formed by charity. Similarly, James uses 'works' to refer to positive actions flowing from belief in God, while Paul refers to works of the law, specifically the Jewish initiation ritual of circumcision.
Different perspectives on justification
James and Paul have different perspectives on justification. James emphasizes an ongoing growth in righteousness throughout the Christian life, while Paul focuses on initial justification that occurs when one first comes to God. James believes that intellectual faith alone does not save and that ongoing post-conversion growth is furthered by good works. Paul, on the other hand, stresses that faith working through love leads to forgiveness and that adherence to the Jewish law, including circumcision, is not necessary for justification.
DAY 284
CHALLENGE
“James says we’re justified by faith and works (James 2:24), but that contradicts Paul, who says we’re justified by faith without works (Rom. 3:28, Gal. 2:16).”
DEFENSE
A careful examination shows the two are using key terms— faith, works, and justification—in different senses.
James uses faith to refer to intellectual assent to the truths of faith. Thus he says, “You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder” (James 2:19).
But Paul refers to what theologians call “formed faith” or “faith formed by charity.” Thus he says what counts is …
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