Independent Fundamental Churches distinguish between justification (which is by faith alone in Christ) and the fruit or demonstration of faith (which includes works). James 2:24 is understood not as contradicting Paul but as emphasizing that true faith produces works. Justification is forensic and instantaneous; sanctification (the process of growing in works) follows justification.

The churches teach that a person who claims faith but has no works does not have genuine faith. Works are the necessary evidence that faith is real. Yet works do not earn or merit salvation; they are the inevitable fruit of genuine saving faith in Jesus Christ.