"As Luther noted, James could just as well have been left out of the Bible."
So, for those here who "obey the Bible 100%", James is just not really included? Your 'authority' is a man named Luther?
James is a wonderful example of saved by works not by faith. The following from James doesn't not contradict Paul, Jesus and the Old Testament
But someone will say, "You have faith, and I have works." Show me your faith without your[d] works, and I will show you my faith by my[e] worksJames explains that our faith is not faith unless it manifests itself in works.
Works without faith is possible. Faith without works is not possible. James is writing 40 to 50 years after Paul. It makes sense that James is speaking to mature Christians and that the issue of faith and grace has been settled. They are now ready to go beyond baby food (milk) and receive meat.
To help you see that the concept of saving grace, it was even taught in the OT, Psalms 33
3The LORD looks from heaven;
He sees all the sons of men.
14From the place of His dwelling He looks
On all the inhabitants of the earth;
15He fashions their hearts individually;
He considers all their works.
16No king is saved by the multitude of an army;
A mighty man is not delivered by great strength.
17A horse is a vain hope for safety;
Neither shall it deliver any by its great strength.
18Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear Him,
On those who hope in His mercy,
19To deliver their soul from death,