The Scriptures plainly teach that we are saved by faith (John 8:24; Romans 5:1). But what kind of faith saves us? Is it simply a belief in Christ as the Savior? Is it an obedient faith? Sadly, the religious world is divided over the nature of faith, even though the Scriptures give us a clear answer regarding the type of faith that saves us.
The controversy over faith and works was also alive during the first century. In addressing this, James wrote, “But someone may well say, ‘You have faith and I have works; show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works’” (James 2:18). One who seeks to be justified by faith alone can only claim to have faith. One who is obedient to God can demonstrate his faith through his works.
But does this matter? After all, we are accountable to God. Is it necessary to be able to demonstrate our faith before man? Surely not, if faith alone is acceptable. But James continued, “You believe that God is one. You do well; the demons also believe, and shudder” (James 2:19).
This verse presents a problem for those who believe we are saved by faith alone. Could the demons be saved by faith alone? If not, why not?
But notice further that the demons did not just believe. They also feared God (they “shudder”). We see elsewhere that some of the demons even confessed Christ (Matthew 8:28-29; Mark 1:23-24). Could these demons who believed in God, feared Him, and confessed Christ be saved? Again, if not, why not?
In the end, these demons will not be saved. Jesus said they were doing the work of Satan (Matthew 12:24-26). Therefore, their fate would ultimately be in the lake of fire (Matthew 25:41).
If the demons cannot be saved by faith alone, why do some believe that we can be? James was very clear: “You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone” (James 2:24). “For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead” (James 2:26).
If we do not have an obedient faith, then we do not have anything more than a demonic faith. The Scriptures are clear – those who obey Christ are the ones who will be saved (Matthew 7:21; Hebrews 5:9).
This article is one of the fifty articles included in the book Plain Bible Teaching: The First Ten Years. Click on the link to read more about the book.
Good article Andy! It’s interesting to note the only place the scriptures say anything about “Faith Alone” or faith ONLY is the verse you mentioned: “You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone” (James 2:24). Those who believe in FAITH ONLY would do well to listen to James and certainly even to Christ who said: “If you love Me, keep My commandments.(John 14:15) and later “You are My friends if you do whatever I command you.”(John 15:14) True faith is an active one.
Thanks, Kris. That’s a good point too.