James 2:26, OSAS & Salvation

James 2:26 (KJV) states: “For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.”

This verse plays a crucial role in the discussion of salvation, particularly in relation to the doctrine of “Once Saved, Always Saved” (OSAS). It raises the question: Is faith alone sufficient for salvation, or must it be accompanied by works?

Faith and Works in Salvation

James argues that true faith produces works. He is not saying that works save a person, but rather that works are the evidence of genuine faith. This aligns with other passages in Scripture:

• Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
• Matthew 7:16-20 – “Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.”
• John 15:5-6 – “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”

These verses show that salvation is by grace through faith, but true faith will naturally result in good works.

Does James 2:26 Contradict OSAS?

Some argue that James 2:26 challenges the idea of eternal security, suggesting that if a believer does not produce good works, their faith is dead and ineffective. However, others interpret this verse as a test of genuine faith rather than a condition for maintaining salvation.

Consider these verses that support eternal security:

• John 10:28-29 – “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.”
• Romans 8:38-39 – “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
• Philippians 1:6 – “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”

These verses suggest that salvation is secure in Christ, but James 2:26 reminds believers that true faith is active.

Conclusion

James 2:26 does not contradict salvation by grace but rather complements it by showing that faith is alive and real when accompanied by works. While salvation is not earned by works, a lack of works may indicate that faith is not genuine.

So, does “Once Saved, Always Saved” hold up? The Bible teaches both God’s sovereignty in salvation and human responsibility in faithfulness. The key is to abide in Christ, trusting in His promises while living a life that reflects His love and righteousness.

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