(a) Explain James concept of works in relation to Faith.
(b) In what three ways can Christians demonstrate their faith in their daily life?
(a) James' concept of works in relation to faith: To James, hearing the word is good but doing what is heard brings blessing to the doer. It is of no benefit to declare faith which is not matched by works. For James, faith is an abstract expression which, in concrete terms, is put in action by works. Practical response to the needs of brethren profits more than mere verbal expression of faith ("Go in peace, be warmed and filled"). James further said that one's work can prove one's faith. It is not enough to believe that God is one, for even demons believe and shudder.Abraham's faith was justified when he offered Isaac his son upon the altar. So, his faith was active along with his works and was completed by his works. By Abraham's action, James insists that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone. That means that faith and works go together, one complementing the other. Rahab, the harlot, believed the spies were God's people. She treated them kindly for her own rescue and her works justified her faith. James thus declared: "As the body apart from the spirit is dead, so faith apart from works is dead."
(b) Ways by which Christians should demonstrate their faith in their daily life:
(i) Christians should establish vocational/technical institutions for training of the unemployed.
(ii) They should obey those in government/authority.
(iii) They should ensure good governance by participating in government.
(iv) They should help the poor and needy.
(v) They should participate in Church activities.
(vi) They should establish orphanages/mental homes/vocations, etc.
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