James 2:24 — "Justified by Works"

The Church of the Nazarene reads James 2:24 as affirming that justification by faith leads necessarily to sanctification (entire sanctification) which bears fruit in works. The Nazarene theology of two works of grace (justification and entire sanctification) provides a framework for understanding James: the faith that justifies must mature into sanctified living that produces good works.

James 2:24 is thus not contradictory to Paul but complementary. Paul emphasizes that salvation is not earned; James emphasizes that salvation transforms and produces righteousness. For the Nazarene, the work of grace in the believer's life necessarily results in works of obedience, mercy, and justice. Faith and works are inseparable because the Spirit working in believers both creates faith and empowers righteous action.