Therefore we conclude, that a man is justified by faith, without the deeds of the law.  Romans 3:28.  Ye see how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.  James 2:24

Both these apostles wrote by inspiration.  St. Paul answers this question both affirmatively and negatively: that  “a man is justified before God by faith, without the deeds of the law;” and in the twentieth verse positively affirms, that “by the deeds shall no flesh be justified.”  St. James asserts, that “by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.”  St. Paul speaks of a justification before God; James, of a justification before men.  St. Paul speaks of the justification of penitent sinners before God; James, of a justification of saints before men.  St. Paul, of the justification of sinners believing in the righteousness of the Lord Jesus Christ for pardon and life; James, of the works of righteousness after justification by faith in Christ.  Paul speaks of faith touching its work in the matter of justification before God; James, of faith in its fruits and effects.  Paul’s faith is supposed to be fruitful in obedience, in consequence of an interest in the merits of Christ; James’ faith is declared so to be by obedience performed.  Whenever there is a true faith, it must fix on Jesus Christ alone for salvation; that is its principal act.  This same faith unites to Christ; and where there is union, there must be love; and where there is love, there must be obedience; and where there is obedience, there will be a reward of grace; and when the reward is acknowledged to be of grace, and not of merit, God will have all the glory in time and eternity.