The Maronite Catholic Church affirms the traditional Catholic interpretation of James 2:24 that justification involves both faith and works. The Council of Trent defined that justification is not by faith alone but requires the cooperation of works (though always enabled by grace). James 2:24 is understood as clearly teaching that works are necessary to justify and save the believer; a faith without corresponding works does not save.

In Maronite theology, salvation is understood as a process of sanctification wherein the believer grows in grace and holiness through faith and obedience to God's commandments. Works done in grace and charity contribute to justification and final salvation. This understanding is rooted in the Eastern Christian concept of theosis (deification), where humans participate in God's grace and holiness, not merely through imputation but through transformation.