May 2, 2019
James 2:14-26 — Part 4
Why did James in 2:19 mention the demons’ faith? How does that fit into the entire section of James 2:14-26?
READ TIME: 1-2 MINUTES
This is a repost from April 26, 2019 (with many additional comments). I thought it was appropriate since this series of questions is about James 2:14-26.
James includes the faulty argument of an imaginary objector in 2:18b-19 (starting with “you have faith . . . “). James is using a common Greek debating technique called diatribe. which was a learned and argumentative form of discourse (compare (cf. Romans 3:27-4:2; 9:19-20; 1 Corinthians 15:35-36; Galatians 2:17). This Greek rhetorical device, which is acknowledged by many interpreters, requires that the objector is disagreeing, not agreeing. James’ response in 2:20-26 shows how ludicrous this objection is. In the objector’s mind (with which James disagrees) he’s attempting to demonstrate the impossibility of showing one’s faith from one’s works from the illustration about demons. The objector imagines that one can live the Christian life by a faith that is not energized by works and that this alone is sufficient for an abundant life and the fulfillment of all of the believer’s obligations to God. However, James directly counters this objection (in James 2:21-23) that faith without works is useless as far as progressive/practical sanctification and deliverance through trials are concerned (James 2:20; cf. 1:21; 2:14).
James 2:19 should not be used to argue that works are needed to prove saving faith. This verse shows that demons have a real faith, but it isn’t saving faith. They believe in one God and know that God has sealed their fate in judgment, therefore they tremble. So, the demons believe one thing, God is one, that is, they are monotheistic. Muslims and Jews believe that God is one.
Even though the faith of the demons is real, it’s not saving faith. They do not and cannot believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior.
While good works are God’s purpose for us, are useful to others, and give us a good evaluation at the Judgment Seat of Christ, they cannot prove or disprove the reality of saving faith. Eternal salvation is by grace alone through faith alone – apart from any works at any time.
SOURCES USED
Bing, Charlie. GraceNotes #47. <http://www.gracelife.org/resources/gracenotes/pdf/gracenotes47.pdf>.
Dillow, Joseph. Final Destiny: The Future Reign of The Servant Kings: Fourth Revised Edition. Grace Theology Press, chapter 28.
Hodges, Zane C. “The Epistle of James.” The Grace New Testament Commentary. Ed. Robert N. Wilkin. Denton, TX: Grace Evangelical Society, 2010. 1119.
