More On Faith Plus Works

Q. My question is from James 2:14-26 where it says you must have works with faith to be saved.  This contradicts some of the other teachings that we acknowledge Jesus as our savior and that he died for our sins.

A.  James 2:14-26 does not say you must have works with faith to be saved.  The Bible is clear in saying that salvation is based on faith alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). James said, in effect, that genuine faith will manifest itself in voluntary acts of service.  These “good works” are not necessary to gain salvation, nor are they required as proof that we’re really saved.  They’re things that accompany salvation as naturally as a smile accompanies happiness. When James said, “You can tell that I have faith by the things I do” (James 2:18) he meant that faith brings salvation, which brings gratitude, which brings a desire to express our gratitude through acts of service.