What is the difference between faith and works — Meaning Explained

The relationship between faith and works has been debated since the early church. Paul argued passionately that salvation comes through faith, not works: 'by grace are ye saved through faith... not of works.' However, James wrote that 'faith without works is dead,' using Abraham as an example of faith demonstrated through action. These are complementary, not contradictory: Paul spoke of works as a means of earning salvation (which they cannot do), while James spoke of works as evidence of genuine saving faith (which they must be). Luther called James 'an epistle of straw' but eventually recognized that both apostles teach that saving faith is living, active faith that naturally produces obedience and love.