We Christians are teaching error. We have applied human logic to a scriptural concept and have reached a wrong conclusion. We have not noted the scriptural requirements and conclusions, choosing instead to make "logical" deductions. We have twisted the Scriptures to our destruction because we cannot understand how the grace of God and righteous behavior can both be necessary for our salvation.

Like our attitude toward the paradox of Divine election and human choice, we will not accept both truths as equally valid and necessary because we cannot, with our human mind, resolve the seeming inconsistency. That is a poor excuse for not accepting the whole counsel of the Scriptures.

We have had the teaching of the Apostle James all this time so we are without excuse. "Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only" (James 2:24).

Why have we selected Paul over James? First, because we do not understand Paul. Second, because we have permitted humanistic values and sentiments to affect our judgment. We are putting man's comfort and convenience ahead of the rigorous, painful demands of the Gospel of Jesus.

Are we justified by works as well as by faith? Yes, according to the Scriptures; no, according to today's Christian theologians.

Does James contradict Paul? No. It is just that we have misunderstood Paul, fastening on his argument in the early chapters of Romans, his reaction to the Judaizers, and ignoring the bulk of what he wrote in the Epistles.

Part of our confusion arises from the contemporary interpretation of the expression from Habakkuk, "by his faith."

Acceptance of a religious creed is not the kind of faith that brings eternal life.

The verse in Habakkuk is the source of the three New Testament statements, "the just shall live by faith." What was Habakkuk talking about? He was not contrasting belief in theological facts with unbelief in theological facts. Habakkuk was contrasting humility and faithfulness to God with self-centered pride—a pride often found in those whose theological beliefs largely are correct.

Habakkuk was saying that the human being who chooses to live according to his pride and abilities is not accepted of God; but the person who chooses to live in humble, meek, faithful dependence on God is approved of God. This, in fact, is the message of the entire Scriptures.

Faith has little to do with what we understand or accept of theology. Faith has to do with our relationship to God, to Christ. The faith by which the righteous live is a living faith. It always is revealed in our behavior.

It is impossible to possess a true faith and not be moved continually to works of righteousness. Faith apart from works is dead. Dead faith will not bring God's approval; it will not result in eternal life.

To be continued.