James 2:25
Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐξ
by
G1537
ἐξ
by
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
8 of 17
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
ἔργων
works
G2041
ἔργων
works
Strong's:
G2041
Word #:
9 of 17
toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act
ἐδικαιώθη
justified
G1344
ἐδικαιώθη
justified
Strong's:
G1344
Word #:
10 of 17
to render (i.e., show or regard as) just or innocent
ὑποδεξαμένη
when she had received
G5264
ὑποδεξαμένη
when she had received
Strong's:
G5264
Word #:
11 of 17
to admit under one's roof, i.e., entertain hospitably
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀγγέλους
the messengers
G32
ἀγγέλους
the messengers
Strong's:
G32
Word #:
13 of 17
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
14 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
Hebrews 11:31By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.Joshua 2:15Then she let them down by a cord through the window: for her house was upon the town wall, and she dwelt upon the wall.Joshua 2:4And the woman took the two men, and hid them, and said thus, There came men unto me, but I wist not whence they were:Joshua 2:1And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot's house, named Rahab, and lodged there.Joshua 6:17And the city shall be accursed, even it, and all that are therein, to the LORD: only Rahab the harlot shall live, she and all that are with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we sent.Matthew 1:5And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse;Matthew 21:31Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into the kingdom of God before you.
Historical Context
Rahab (Joshua 2) risked her life to protect Israel's spies. Jews revered her as a proselyte; James highlights her as a model for diaspora believers facing pressure to betray the church. Hebrews 11:31 similarly commends her faith.",
Questions for Reflection
- How does Rahab's example challenge social prejudices in the church?
- Where might God be calling you to risk for His people?
- How can your hospitality demonstrate faith?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way? Likewise Rahab the harlot (pornē, πόρνη) was justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out another way. Gentile, female, marginalized—yet justified by faith demonstrated in courageous action. Rahab shows that genuine faith crosses social barriers.
Reformed theology celebrates that God justifies sinners who trust Him, regardless of past, and that such trust manifests in costly allegiance to God's people.