King James Version
What Does James 2:12 Mean?
“So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.”
Context
10
For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.
11
For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law. he that: or, that law which
12
So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.
13
For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. rejoiceth: or, glorieth
14
What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(12) **So speak ye, and so do**.—The writer has shown how unsuspected sins lead quickly to a violation of the Law, and in concluding this part of his Epistle he returns to the warning against an unguarded tongue, with which he commenced in chap 1:26.
**The law of liberty.**—The term is only found here and in James 1:25, and seems one of which James the Wise was peculiarly fond. What, however, did he precisely mean? Neither the ceremonial, nor the moral, most certainly; but the spiritual law of One greater than Moses. The idea, however, is in most of the New Testament writings, and particularly St. Paul’s. (Comp. John 8:32; Romans 8:21; 1Corinthians 10:29; 2Corinthians 3:17; Galatians 2:4; Galatians 5:1; Galatians 5:13; and 1Peter 2:16.)
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of James. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
James 2:12 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to James 2:12
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge