Together, Galatians and James confirm two great truths of salvation: we are saved by grace through faith alone, but the faith that saves is never alone. Galatians emphasizes salvation by faith apart from works. James emphasizes works as evidence of faith. While some see a contradiction between the two books, a closer look reveals the views of Paul and James to be complementary. Examining salvation from different vantage points, Paul spoke to those trying to obtain salvation by works and James wrote to those who claimed to be saved but with no visible evidence in their lives. Today, believers and unbelievers continue to struggle with these same issues. Thankfully, Paul and James tackled them head-on. Get ready for an exciting ride through two of the most dynamic books in the entire Bible.
James Merritt (PhD) is a pastor, author, and host of the Touching Lives television program, seen nationwide and in 122 countries. Previously, he served as a two-term president of America’s largest Christian denomination. As a national voice on faith and leadership, Merritt has been interviewed by outlets including Time, Fox News, MSNBC, and 60 Minutes. He resides with his family outside Atlanta, Georgia.