King James Version

What Does James 2:19 Mean?

“Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.”

Context

Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone . alone: Gr. by itself

Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. without: some copies read, by

Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?

Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?

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Topics in This Verse

Faith

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(19) **Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well.**—Better thus, *Thou believest that God is One; thou doest well.* He is the formal object of faith derived from knowledge, whether by sense, intuition, or demonstration; you are theologically correct, and may even declare your internal faith by external confession—well, indeed. **The devils also believe, and tremble.**—They *shudder* in the belief which only assures them of their utter misery; literally, their hair stands on end with terror of the God they own. Assent, opinion, knowledge—all are thus shared by demons of the pit; call not your joint possession by the holier name of Faith. “I believe in God,” “I believe in one God”—such is the voice of the Christian; and this is said in the full sense “only by those who love God, and who are not only Christians in name, but in deed and in life.”

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 2:19 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.