For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.
All Commentaries on James 2:26 Go To James 2
Oecumenius
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James is talking here about faith after baptism, for a faith without works can only make us more guilty of sin, seeing that we have received a talent but are not using it profitably. The Lord himself demonstrated the need for works after baptism by going into the desert to do battle with the devil. (Mt 4:1-11) Paul also exhorts those who have entered into the mystery of faith to "strive to enter his peace," (Heb 4:4) as if faith by itself were not enough. Holiness of life is also necessary, and for that great efforts are required.
