Matthew Henry Commentary James 1:26-27

"If any man thinketh himself to be religious, while he bridleth not his tongue but deceiveth his heart, this man`s religion is vain. Pure religion and undefiled before our God and Father is this, to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, [and] to keep oneself unspotted from the world." — James 1:26-27 (ASV)

When people take more effort to seem religious than to actually be so, it is a sign their religion is in vain. Not bridling the tongue, a readiness to speak of the faults of others, or to lessen their wisdom and piety, are signs of a vain religion. The person who has a slandering tongue cannot have a truly humble, gracious heart. False religion may also be known by its impurity and lack of charity.

True religion teaches us to do everything as in the presence of God. An unspotted life must accompany unfeigned love and charity. Our true religion is measured by the extent to which these things are present in our hearts and conduct.

And let us remember that nothing avails in Christ Jesus but faith that works by love, purifies the heart, subdues carnal lusts, and obeys God's commands.