James 2:
23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.(KJV)
Can you explain why James stated the above after discussing dead faith and works?
Or do you see James refuting the body of epistles Paul wrote. I would say no James is not because God does not cause confusion. So when we apply expository examination we see James is discussing works which accompanies regeneration. For only good fruit comes from a good tree.
For as Paul said if our salvation is of works then it is no longer Grace that saves.
Romans 11:
5Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the election of grace. 6And if by grace, then is it no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if it be of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.
Yes, sure. The passage is:
Was not Abraham our father justified by works, offering up Isaac his son upon the altar? [22] Seest thou, that faith did co-operate with his works; and by works faith was made perfect? [23] And the scripture was fulfilled, saying: Abraham believed God, and it was reputed to him to justice, and he was called the friend of God. (James 2:21-23) James correctly points out that Abraham was not saved by faith alone: He offered his own son for sacrifice God seemed to ask. I might add, he also crossed a desert by faith. Both are acts of faith that are also heroic deeds. As St. James explains that a living faith cooperates with works and is perfected by works.
You confusion stems from the fact that the Protestant view the passage in Roman 4 as a prooftext of salvation by faith alone. Of course, it isn't. All St. Paul is saying that Abraham was saved by his mental disposition, -- his faith -- even before he was circumcised, and the Romans likewise can be saved without going through circumcision. Paul is not discussing faith in relation to good works but faith in relation to Jewish Law.
Romans 11 that you cite states the Catohlic doctrine that salvation is by grace alone and grace is not of works.