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“You have faith, and I have works. Show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” (James 2: 18)

Over the past two years, we’ve all had a lot of two-dimensional interactions. I don’t know about you, but I’m on video meetings every single day—some days I could have up to five or six! That’s a lot of screen time, and it doesn’t even include my actual work! So, whenever I do get to interact with clients or teammates in real life, I always joke about how nice it is to see them in “3D” (three versus two dimensions). It’s the way we’re meant to live!

I’m currently studying the book of James in the Bible. And it struck me that we, as believers in Jesus Christ, must have “3D faith.” Let me explain.

See, in this powerful (and convicting) book, James talks about three different types of faith. First there is one-dimensional faith—or dead faith—which is all head knowledge. People with this type of faith know their Bible stories, and they may even talk a good talk about theology. But that’s all there is. All talk, but no walk. In fact, you may see these people at church on Sunday…but their behavior the rest of the week does not reflect their “Christian” label.

Next is two-dimensional faith, or demonic faith. This type of faith is head knowledge plus an emotional reaction. As James illustrates, even the demons have this kind of faith. If these fallen angels could sit around a Bible-trivia table, they would win every round. They believe in God—they were there when He created everything. Just read the gospel accounts of Jesus’s ministry, and you’ll see that the demons recognized Jesus as Son of God and Judge. They believe, as James says, and they shudder (James 2:19)! They know God, they acknowledge His power, and they have an emotional response…but they do not love Him or surrender to Him.

Finally, there is three-dimensional faith—or dynamic faith. This is authentic, saving faith, encompassing head knowledge, emotional understanding, and obedient action. Going beyond words and feelings, this kind of faith involves the will, choosing to live in line with God’s Truth…loving God with all we are, and extending that love to our neighbor. In his letter, James also emphasizes that 3D faith is the only way we can demonstrate our faith to the world. See, only God can truly know our saving faith—it is He who justifies us and declares us righteous through the work of His Son on the cross. But there’s no way for our brothers and sisters, or the dying world around us, to know our faith (or even know what it means to have faith), unless we show them.

So, what kind of faith do you have? Are you currently living with a one-dimensional or a two-dimensional faith? Or have you fully surrendered your mind, heart, and will to Jesus, walking out your faith in steadfast obedience to the One who surrendered it all for you? Friend, embrace 3D faith today—it’s the way we’re meant to live.

“Lord, reveal to me if my faith is just lip-service. I surrender my will to You today—help me demonstrate my faith and give light to a dark world.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life