King James Version
James 2:20 in the King James Version says “But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” — study this verse from James chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?”
James 2:20 · KJV
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?
Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? Seest: or, Thou seest
KJV Study — Public Domain
“wilt”
G2309to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
“thou know”
G1097to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
“faith”
G4102persuasion, i.e., credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of god or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon christ
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.
James 2:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to James 2:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge