Final answer:
The book of James suggests that people are justified by works, presenting the idea that faith is made complete through actions. This is in contrast with Martin Luther's interpretation of faith alone being the key to salvation. The book emphasizes that good works demonstrate true faith.
Step-by-step explanation:
The book of James primarily suggests that people are justified by works and not by faith alone. This is contrasting to Martin Luther's interpretation of St. Paul's letters, which implied that salvation comes through faith alone. However, in the context of James, good works are seen as a demonstration of one's faith. It is not explicitly about eternal judgment, justification by faith, or baptism, even though these themes may be present in wider Christian doctrine and scriptural interpretation.
John Calvin's idea of predestination implies that salvation is predetermined, which differs from the notion of justification by works or faith as presented in James. Medieval Christian practices such as baptism were considered necessary for salvation, and practices like confession and communion were integral to the Christian life and the forgiveness of sins. These rituals and concepts build a complex theology around sin, redemption, and salvation.
Luther's assertion that salvation comes through faith alone poses a contrast to James, where faith is made complete by works (James 2:22). Ultimately, the book of James advocates for a faith that is lived out through righteous actions as evidence of one's belief.