What does James 2:23 mean?

And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. James 2:23

Explanation

James 2:23 is a verse from the New Testament of the Christian Bible that speaks about a key event in the Old Testament, where Abraham’s faith in God is deemed righteousness, and Abraham is called God’s friend. This verse emphasizes the significance of faith in God’s sight and confirms the fulfilment of Scripture.

In literal terms, the verse refers to the story of Abraham, an Old Testament patriarch, who demonstrated his faith by believing God’s promises, despite any human reason to doubt. This faith was “imputed unto him for righteousness,” meaning that Abraham was considered righteous in the eyes of God because of his faith. The title “Friend of God” signifies a deep and intimate relationship with God, which is born out of trust and obedience.

The deeper meaning reflects the principle that genuine faith, which is reflected in actions, is valued by God and is the basis upon which individuals are deemed righteous. It underscores the message of faith and works being inseparable in the Christian belief system.

Historical Context

James 2:23 is situated in the letter of James, traditionally attributed to James the Just, who is thought to be the brother of Jesus. This epistle was likely written in the first century AD to Christians of the twelve tribes scattered abroad (James 1:1). The verse reflects the Jewish Christian understanding of faith and works, common in the early church debates. It was written in a time when tensions were rising between the value of faith and the role of works in salvation.

This verse also harkens back to the account of Abraham, which can be found in the Book of Genesis, centuries before the Christian era began. It speaks to the Jewish heritage of the Christian faith and how faith has always been a central aspect of the relationship between God and Humanity.

Theological Insights

The verse grants several theological insights. From a Protestant viewpoint, it may seem to clash with the doctrine of “sola fide” (faith alone) underscored by Martin Luther. However, many Protestant theologians reconcile this by clarifying that true faith is necessarily accompanied by works. From a Catholic and Orthodox perspective, this verse supports the belief that faith and works are both essential for righteousness.

Another theological insight is the dynamic relational aspect with God shown through the title “Friend of God.” This indicates that trust and obedience to God’s will are not just legal requirements but foster a relationship akin to friendship.

Practical Applications

James 2:23 can be applied in daily life by understanding the connection between faith and actions. It may inspire individuals to reflect on the nature of their faith, examining whether their actions affirm their beliefs. It prompts the belief that faith should be active and influential on one’s lifestyle, decisions, and interactions with others. Additionally, it can encourage believers to seek a deeper, more intimate relationship with God, as seen in the example of Abraham.

Cross-References

• Genesis 15:6 “And he believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness.”
• Romans 4:3 “For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.”
• 2 Chronicles 20:7 “Art not thou our God, who didst drive out the inhabitants of this land before thy people Israel, and gavest it to the seed of Abraham thy friend for ever?”
• Isaiah 41:8 “But thou, Israel, art my servant, Jacob whom I have chosen, the seed of Abraham my friend.”
• Galatians 3:6 “Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.”

Language Study

The critical phrase “it was imputed unto him” comes from the Greek word “elogisthe,” which can be translated as “counted,” “reckoned,” or “credited.” This is an accounting term, giving the sense of something being added to Abraham’s account.

“Righteousness” originates from the Greek “dikaiosune,” which in ancient Greek culture could mean justice or virtue, but in the Jewish context, it also embodies being right with God.

Another key term is “Friend of God,” translating from the Greek “philos Theou,” where “philos” means friend or beloved and “Theou” refers to God. This denotes a relationship characterized by affection and closeness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The title “Friend of God” has parallels in other ancient cultures where individuals had special relationships with their gods. For example, in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt, kings and pharaohs were often considered to be in a unique relationship with deities.

In other Abrahamic faiths, Abraham’s faith is also central. For instance, Islam regards Abraham (Ibrahim) as a prophet and a model of faith in God, although the interpretations of his relationship with God may differ.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse itself does not directly intersect with scientific concepts, the broader discussion of faith and righteousness raises questions about the nature of belief and morality from a psychological and sociological standpoint. Modern science investigates how beliefs might influence behavior and the sense of moral righteousness that individuals or communities uphold.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians offer various interpretations of James 2:23. Martin Luther, the Protestant Reformer, initially struggled with the letter of James, calling it an “epistle of straw” because he felt it contradicted his “faith alone” doctrine. However, other commentators see no contradiction, emphasizing that James supplements faith with works rather than juxtaposing them.

Matthew Henry’s commentary suggests that the verse showcases the harmonious relationship between faith and works, and that both are necessary for someone to be in right standing with God. John Calvin’s interpretations also examine the synthetization of faith and works, pointing out that faith must be seen through actions to be genuine and effective.