What does the Bible say about justification by faith and works?

In James 2, the apostle emphasizes that faith without works is dead, asserting that true faith is demonstrated by corresponding actions. This is not to suggest that works earn salvation, as Paul clearly states in Romans 3:20 that no one can be justified by the deeds of the law. Rather, the works that James refers to are the outward manifestations of a true and living faith. The examples of Abraham, who was justified by the faith that produced obedience in offering Isaac, and Rahab, justified by her faith expressed through her actions in protecting the spies, elucidate this concept. Justification is thus seen as a twofold understanding where faith justifies before God and is evidenced before men through works.