Reading for January 2nd

Read James 2.14-26. In 2.14-26: Perfection of active faith. James performs here like a teacher anticipating objections and answering them. In verses 14-17: Some object that faith alone counts; James counters that faith which does not feed the hungry and clothe the naked is dead or unclean. Perfection, then, means wholeness; both faith and works. In verses 18-20: To those who boast of their works, James counters that faith can be manifested only by works, bit without works it is useless. Mere understanding of God's supremacy counts for nothing, unless faithful obedience follows. In verses 21-26: As proof, James cites from the Bible male and female examples of perfect faith. Abraham, a righteous believer (Gen 15.6), showed perfect faithfulness by offering isaac as a sacrifice (Gen 22). Rahab, who extended hospitality to Israelite spies (Josh 2.1-12), is considered holy in spite of being a prostitute. In concusion, James labels the position of faith without works as the ultimate pollution, death. Comments or Questions..