Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

JAMES 2:19KJV
Know the Bible

James 2:19 (KJV)

What does James 2:19 mean?

James 2:19 points out that simply believing there is one God is not enough, since even demons believe this and are afraid. The verse challenges the idea that mere belief, without anything more, is truly meaningful or impressive.

James, writing to early Christians, is addressing people who may think that just having the right beliefs is all that matters. He uses the example of demons—who certainly know God is real and powerful, yet still oppose Him—to show that true faith must go beyond just intellectual agreement.

The Greek behind James 2:19

  • "πιστεύεις" (pisteueis, "believest"): This word means to believe or have faith, but in this context, it highlights a belief that is just mental agreement, not a life-changing trust.
  • "δαιμόνια" (daimonia, "devils"): This word refers to evil spirits or demons. James uses it to make a strong point: even these beings have correct beliefs about God, but it does not help them.
  • "φρίσσουσιν" (phrissousin, "tremble"): This word means to shudder or be terrified. It shows that the demons’ belief leads to fear, not to obedience or love.

Why James 2:19 matters

  • James 2:19 clears up the misunderstanding that faith is only about agreeing with certain truths in your mind; it shows that faith must be more than just belief.
  • The verse emphasizes that even the most correct beliefs, if not joined with something deeper, do not set a person apart from those who oppose God.
  • This verse connects to the wider passage where James argues that real faith will naturally show itself in actions, not just words or thoughts.

Where else these words appear

“well” Greek G2573 · used in 36 verses

  • Matthew 5:44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
  • Luke 20:39 Then certain of the scribes answering said, Master, thou hast well said.
  • Galatians 4:17 They zealously affect you, but not well; yea, they would exclude you, that ye might affect them.

“devils” Greek G1140 · used in 52 verses

  • Matthew 7:22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
  • Mark 9:38 And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us.
  • Luke 11:14 And he was casting out a devil, and it was dumb. And it came to pass, when the devil was gone out, the dumb spake; and the people wondered.