Part of my Bible reading today, focuses on James 2. Many have wondered whether James’ teaching here contradicts the Apostle Paul in Romans when he says:

“Since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:1)

At first, James’s words—“a person is justified by works and not by faith alone”—can feel unsettling. But Scripture is not confused, and the gospel is not divided.

Paul reminds us from where our peace comes: Not our obedience, not our effort, but Christ alone. Faith is the open hand that receives Him, and because of that, the battle is over. We stand in grace. Thankfully, God is not measuring us today—He has already declared us righteous in His Son.

James, however, presses a loving question: What does that faith look like once it has taken root? True faith does not remain hidden or silent. It moves. It loves. It obeys. Not to earn God’s favor, but because it already has it.

John Calvin commenting on James 2 said it best and very succinctly:

“It is therefore faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone.”

— John Calvin (Institutes, 3.11.20)

This matters deeply for our daily lives. When we stumble, Romans 5 steadies and assures us: Our peace with God has not been lost. When we grow comfortable or careless, James wakes us up: Living faith will show itself in costly love and real obedience.

So we rest—and we walk.

We trust Christ fully—and we follow Him gladly.

And in that rhythm of grace and obedience, we grow strong, humble, and free.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus Christ, we praise You that You have made peace for us by Your blood and given us a secure standing in grace. Teach us to rest fully in what You have done and to walk faithfully in the life You now call us to live. May our obedience flow from love, our works reflect Your grace, and our lives point others to You. Amen.