James does not contradict to Paul’s teaching on justification by faith alone. Remember the theme of James is “the signs of a true faith.” Therefore, James stresses that our work is the evidence of our faith. It is inconceiveable for a person who have faith but without work. This is why the sacrifice of Isaac is an fulfillment of Abraham’s faith (v. 23).
This passage is for our self-evaluation instead of judging others’ faith. If I pray to God for some one’s salvation, I should also be the one who shares the gospel with him.
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