James has some very blunt words for us today. Surrendering in faith to Jesus Christ as Lord is absolutely essential for us to win salvation. We cannot 'earn' salvation simply by doing good things. This is a point emphasised strongly by Paul in his Letter to the Romans. On the other hand, a faith which does not result in loving acts towards others, especially those in need cannot be a true faith. To be filled with the Spirit of Christ resulting from our faith means that we, too, must be like Christ in reaching out to others, especially the needy. A "faith without good deeds is useless". It is no use our saying that we accept and believe every teaching of the Church if we are not also people of love and compassion.

This is also echoed in John's letter. He writes "whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected" (1 Jn. 2:5). To those who obey what Christ has said God's love comes to perfection in them.