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Verse Takeaways
1
The Outward Proof of Faith
Commentators widely agree that this verse is not a complete definition of Christianity, but rather a description of its necessary outward expression. James is explaining what genuine faith looks like in action, contrasting this 'pure religion' with the empty rituals or mere hearing of the Word mentioned in the previous verses. True faith inevitably produces the fruit of compassionate action and personal holiness.
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Book Overview
James
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Commentaries
12
Albert Barnes
On James 1:27
18th Century
Theologian
Pure religion. On the word here rendered religion (yrhskeia), see Barnes on Colossians 2:18.
It is used here evid…
AT Robertson
On James 1:27
Pure religion and undefiled (θρησκεια καθαρα κα αμιαντος). Numerous examples in papyri and inscriptions of θρησκεια for ritual and…
Charles Ellicott
On James 1:27
19th Century
Bishop
Pure religion . . .—It will be observed that 'religion' here means religious service. No single word can express this obvious inte…
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Charles Spurgeon
On James 1:27
19th Century
Preacher
To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.
I should like to have such a …
Expositor's Bible Commentary
On James 1:27
(2) The kind of “religion that God our Father accepts” is the kind that exerts a positive influence on one’s life. This verse does not give us a de…
John Calvin
On James 1:27
16th Century
Theologian
Pure religion. As he passes by those things which are of the greatest importance in religion, he does not generally define what religion i…
John Gill
On James 1:27
17th Century
Pastor
Pure religion and undefiled
That which is sincere and genuine, and free from adulteration and hypocrisy:
Matthew Henry
On James 1:26–27
17th Century
Minister
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…