The Eastern Orthodox Church affirms James 2:24 as teaching that genuine saving faith necessarily includes and is perfected by works of righteousness. In Orthodox theology, faith and works are not opposed but are unified in the Christian life. Justification involves both faith in Christ and cooperation of human will in performing works. Theosis (deification) requires both grace and human participation through obedience and works. The passage is understood as affirming the indissolubility of faith and works.