Mennonites affirm James 2:24 ('faith without works is dead') as true and important. While affirming justification by faith in Christ, Mennonites understand that genuine faith necessarily produces transformed living and ethical conduct. This is not works-righteousness but faith expressed through works.

The Mennonite Confession of Faith emphasizes discipleship as integral to salvation: faith in Christ is inseparable from commitment to follow Jesus in costly obedience. Works of love, peacemaking, justice, and mutual aid are evidence of genuine faith and participation in God's kingdom. James's emphasis complements Paul's teaching: Paul emphasizes that salvation is by grace through faith, not earned; James emphasizes that faith without works is not genuine faith.