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James #1: DOES JAMES CONTRADICT PAUL?

July 20, 2026 · 56 min

Show notes

James 1: Does James Contradict Paul?

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Does the book of James contradict Paul—or have Christians misunderstood James for centuries?

In this episode of the Determined Truth Podcast, we begin our study of the book of James by examining one of the most debated books in the New Testament. We explore why Martin Luther famously questioned James, how faith and works actually fit together, and why James is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus.

Topics include:

Why Martin Luther called James an "epistle of straw"

Does James contradict Paul's teaching on salvation?

Faith vs. works—or faith that works?

What is the "Royal Law"?

The Shema and the Greatest Commandment

Loving your neighbor as yourself

The Good Samaritan and redefining "neighbor"

James' concern for the poor and marginalized

Covenantal nomism and Second Temple Judaism

Why James echoes the Sermon on the Mount

James, the brother of Jesus, and his remarkable transformation

Why understanding the Gospels is essential for understanding Paul

We also discuss how the church can faithfully apply James today by pursuing justice, mercy, and genuine love for others rather than merely professing faith.

If you've ever wrestled with James 2, "faith without works is dead," or wondered how James and Paul fit together, this episode provides historical, biblical, and theological context.

📖 Key Passages Discussed:

James 1–5

Deuteronomy 6

Leviticus 19

Mark 12

Luke 10

Matthew 5–7 (Sermon on the Mount)

Ephesians 2

Philippians 3

1 Peter 2

John 7

Acts 12

Galatians 2

slaveryfootprint.org

#BibleStudy #ChristianTheology #NewTestament #JesusChrist #BiblicalStudies #OldTestament #ChristianPodcast #Theology #BibleTeaching #DeterminedTruth #Faith #Scripture #BiblePodcast #Church #works #neighbor



Vinnie Angelo & Rob Dalrymple



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Music: “Love is Against the Grain” (Dime Store Prophets)



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