Antagonists or Allies?
The supposed contradiction between James and Paul has been a theological battleground with James 2:14-26 often being understood as contradicting Paul's teaching that salvation is by faith alone apart from works. James is not writing about how to become a Christian, but rather how to act like one. Having all the correct beliefs about God will hardly suffice: even demons believe in God. Real, life-giving faith should produce motion, and James minces no words in describing the specific spiritual actions expected of Christians. Paul and James On Faith and Works
It is most important to note at the beginning that James and Paul were writing for different purposes. Paul's purpose was to explain how the gospel works, the method of justification through Christ. This can be seen not only in Romans but also in Galatians. James, on the other hand, is reproving idle brethren. The Christian and Good Works
It seems that the only Scripture a Bible-believer knows about good works is that we are not saved by them (Ephesians 2:8,9)! Sadly from that many have further appeared to adopt an attitude about good works that they are virtually insignificant. Therefore, this article should be very surprising as it reveals Biblical truths about this important subject. Saving Faith
James' argument is simple. People act according to their beliefs. This isn't an absolute statement as people can act intentionally to deceive others. Other times – sometimes within the church – people act as they think others expect them to (for example, when in church). When they are by themselves the mask drops and they behave according to their beliefs. Dead Faith
Well, let me see. I gave to missions, paid my tithe, served as an usher, and gave to the building fund. You see, when I was on earth, we were all waiting to be rescued by the rapture, and we weren’t much interested in fighting. We were taught that the end was near and that there wasn’t anything we could do about it. Plus, we had a government that didn’t allow us to mix religion with work (that will surely cause Daniel to perk-up) Also See Rewards in Heaven
Apparently there are those that will make it to heaven, but who have earned little or no additional rewards. Filthy Rags Filthy Rags
Isaiah 64:6 has long been used as a ‘proof-text’ for two totally distinct yet equally unfounded beliefs. Calvinism uses it to establish the idea that everything the natural man does is wicked... even good deeds. This helps to set up the dogma of "total inability," the engine which drives the entire Calvinist soteriology. The Evangelical uses it to show that good works, obedience, virtue are all useless. This sets the stage for the doctrine of "accepting Christ" through a once-for-all act of faith. But No One every quotes the verse in context. None That Seeketh?
Romans 3:11-18 is often quoted to bolster the claims of universal depravity / that no one ever seeks after God. However if one examines the source of Paul’s quotes a very different picture emerges. The Psalms in question do not show that no righteous person has ever lived but often spoke of God’s protection and favor towards the virtuous people of that day. What then could Paul have possibly meant? How could he possibly say that it is of no profit for men to live righteously when innumerable verses spoke of God’s protection and favor regarding the righteous. Why did he present one side of the coin and ignore the verses that speak of God’s support and favor for those who feared Him? | 
Index to 
