What does James mean when he says Abraham was justified by works?

In James 2:21, it states, 'Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?' This passage illustrates that James speaks to the manifestation of faith through works, highlighting that true faith is evidenced by obedience. Contrary to Paul’s emphasis on justification before God, James discusses the outward demonstration of a person's faith. This does not contradict Paul's teaching but complements it, showing that while we are justified by faith, genuine faith will inevitably produce good works as its fruit, confirming the reality of that faith in a believer's life. Therefore, Abraham's actions served as a testimony to his faith, providing evidence of his justification, rather than serving as the means to achieve it.