You Can’t Have One without the Other

Message Summary:

In this theologically rich and practically challenging message, Chuck Swindoll addresses the essential relationship between faith and works found in James 2:14–26. Swindoll argues that the major theme of James is “results,” comparing faith to calories: while you cannot see them, you can always see their results,. The central question posed to the believer is: “If you say that you believe like you should, then why do you behave like you shouldn’t?”.

To resolve the apparent contradiction between the Apostle Paul (who teaches salvation by faith alone) and James (who emphasizes works), Swindoll provides a crucial distinction: Paul focuses on the root of salvation (God’s perspective), while James focuses on the fruit of salvation (man’s perspective). Swindoll explains that genuine faith is validated by action. He outlines four characteristics of this genuine faith:

1. It is involved, not indifferent: It meets tangible needs rather than offering empty platitudes.
2. It is in partnership, not independent: Faith and works are inseparable, like a “horse and carriage”.
3. It is on display, not invisible: Genuine faith is demonstrated publicly; there is no such thing as a “Secret Service Saint”.
4. It is from the heart, not merely intellectual: Even demons have impeccable theology, but it only makes them shudder.

The message concludes with a warning that separation brings death. Just as the body is dead without the spirit, a faith that is separated from works is lifeless and useless.

Message Key Facts:

• The Paul vs. James Distinction: Swindoll clarifies that there is no contradiction between Paul and James. Paul speaks of the root of salvation (faith + nothing), while James speaks of the fruit after salvation. Paul looks from God’s perspective (seeing the fire in the fireplace); James looks from man’s perspective (looking for the smoke from the chimney).
• Defining “Justification”: When Paul uses the word justify, he means the act of God declaring a sinner righteous. However, Swindoll notes that when James uses justify, he means “validate.” A man’s works validate him as a genuine believer before other people.
• The “Driver’s License” Analogy: Swindoll compares faith without works to carrying a driver’s license when you cannot drive, or a lifesaver certification when you cannot swim. Possessing the document (the claim of faith) is useless if you cannot perform the task (the works).
• “If You’re Saved and You Know It”: Swindoll illustrates the disconnect between profession and practice with a personal story of singing this children’s song in his car. He noticed a sophisticated couple in a silver Continental looking at him with disdain, only to realize later their car had a “Jesus is Lord” sign. Their miserable demeanor did not match their bumper sticker.
• Demonic Orthodoxy: James 2:19 reveals that demons are monotheists (“You believe that God is one”). Swindoll points out that demons have more intelligence and theological knowledge than humans, yet they are lost. This proves that intellectual assent to theological facts is not the same as saving faith.
• The “Dialogue” Trap: Swindoll recounts a story about Dr. John Walvoord, who refused to “dialogue” with a young intellectual because Jesus Christ is presented for faith, not merely for discussion. Swindoll notes that when the Red Sea opened, Moses didn’t dialogue about it; he moved. Faith acts; it does not just discuss.
• Abraham and Rahab: James uses two polar opposites to illustrate his point: Abraham (the father of the Jews) and Rahab (a Gentile harlot). despite their differences in social standing and gender, both were justified (validated) because their faith was demonstrated by their actions.

Message References:

• James 2:14–26: The primary text regarding the necessity of works as proof of genuine faith.
• 1 John 3:16–18: A parallel passage used to illustrate that closing one’s heart to a brother in need is evidence that the love of God does not abide in that person.
• Matthew 5:12: Jesus’ teaching on the results of salvation (being merciful, peacemakers, etc.).
• Deuteronomy 6:4: The “Shema” (“The Lord our God is one Lord”), cited to show that even demons hold to this fundamental biblical truth.
• Ephesians 2, 2 Timothy 1, Titus 3: Referenced as Pauline texts that affirm salvation is by grace through faith apart from works.

Message Speaker:

Pastor Chuck Swindoll