What is the relationship between faith and works?

James 2: 15–17

If a brother or sister is poorly dressed and in lack of daily food, and one of you says to them: "Go in peace, be warmed up and filled", without giving them the things necessary for the body, what is it for? So faith alone, if it has no works, is dead.

Catholic perspective

St. James, the "brother" of Jesus, warns Christians that it is not enough to offer simple wishes to the most needy; we must also provide for these needs. He concludes that faith lives only when it is supported by good works.

Common objections

-You CAN NOT DO ANYTHING TO EARN JUSTIFICATION BEFORE GOD.

REASONING

St. Paul says that "No human being will be justified in his eyes by the works of the law" (Rom 3:20).

REPLY

Paul also writes that "God's righteousness has manifested itself separately from the law, although the law and the prophets are testimony to it" (Rom 3:21). Paul refers to Mosaic Law this passage. Works done to obey the Mosaic law - such as being circumcised or observing Jewish food laws - do not justify, which is Paul's point. Jesus Christ is the one who justifies.

Furthermore, the Church does not claim that God's grace can be "earned". Our justification is a free gift from God.