Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary James 2:17

"Even so faith, if it have not works, is dead in itself." — James 2:17 (ASV)

James states the proposition he intends to demonstrate in the following verses: “Faith... not accompanied by action is dead.” Action is the proper fruit of living faith. Because life is dynamic and productive, faith that lives will surely produce the fruit of good deeds. Therefore, if no deeds are forthcoming, it is proof that the professed faith is dead. James does not deny that it is faith. He simply indicates that it is not the right kind of faith. It is not living faith, nor can it save.