What is pure and undefiled religion (James 1:27)?

Answer

In James 1:27, the apostle James provides insight into what pleases God: “Pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world” (NASB). The term “undefiled” is rendered as “faultless” in the NIV.

When interpreting any verse in the Bible, such as James 1:27, it is essential to consider its context to understand its meaning within the surrounding verses. In this instance, examining the preceding verse of James 1:27 sheds light on the content of this specific passage. Verse 26 states, “Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.” Thus, in these final two verses of James 1, there is a comparison between what renders religion “worthless” and what renders it “acceptable” to God.

It is beneficial to define the term religion. James refers to “religion” as the outward display of inner piety; that is, worship demonstrated through ceremonial actions.

In the context of “worthless” religion, the rituals or devout actions performed by the worshiper appear insignificant—any positive aspects are nullified by uncontrolled speech. A person may go through all the external practices of Christianity, yet if they lie, speak unkindly, gossip, slander, or blaspheme, their religion holds no value. While others may perceive this, the individual remains self-deceived. “By your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:37).

The implicit comparison in the “pure and undefiled” religion that satisfies God is that the worshiper governs their speech. “Whoever of

You love life and desire to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from telling lies” (Psalm 34:12-13). But James goes beyond just tongue control and gives examples of the religious acts God is looking for. One is outward-focused: “Look after orphans and widows in their distress.” The other is inward-focused: “Keep oneself from being polluted by the world” «Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.», (James 1:27). Holy living, coupled with service to others, is the key. Or, as Jesus said, “Love the Lord your God” and “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:30-31).

“Pure and undefiled religion” happens when believers take care of the less fortunate and strive for personal purity. The right kind of religious practice involves helping those who cannot help themselves (and who cannot pay you back). As Jesus taught, “When you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous” (Luke 14:13-14). The right kind of religious practice also requires a personal commitment to growing in Christian virtue (see 2 Peter 1:5-8).

The apostle Paul also wrote about pure and undefiled religion, i.e., the actions of those who wish to please the Lord: “If a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing t

o God” «But if any widow has children or nephews, let them learn first to show piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God. », (1 Timothy 5:4). Taking care of one’s family is a proper religious practice.

Looking after widows and orphans and keeping oneself “unspotted” from the world (KJV) are just two practical examples of what the Christian might do to please God in their religion. James is not trying to create an exhaustive description of what religious practice must include. He is most likely highlighting some areas of concern among the believers to whom he was writing. But the result—pure and undefiled religion—is what believers of all eras should aim for.