Technical Problem?

Even though I am a free man with no master, I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ. When I was with the Jews, I lived like a Jew to bring the Jews to Christ. When I was with those who follow the Jewish law, I too lived under that law. Even though I am not subject to the law, I did this so I could bring to Christ those who are under the law. When I am with the Gentiles who do not follow the Jewish law, I too live apart from that law so I can bring them to Christ. But I do not ignore the law of God; I obey the law of Christ. [I Corinthians 9.19-21]

I must question a technical problem I see with Paul's statement here. I understand completely what he is saying, but what he is saying, based on what I have come to learn about the salvation experience, does not coincide.

How can a man subject himself to Jewish law and still "live out" grace? Really? Is grace not about Christ fulfilling the law (and not us)? After years of reading about and admiring Paul's "ability" in this, today, I am not so sure he is not talking out of both sides of his mouth! I believe it is no secret that one who lives by the law cannot please God because the law is not of faith. Hello! Works will not teach us or those around us grace! How else are Paul's hearers ever to see grace through works?

So now, I am in question of James' statement (book of James) when he says he will show his faith by his works... really?

Father, I am not just trying to pick Paul (or James) apart, but I AM trying to comprehend what Your Word is actually saying to me (us). I do understand Paul's effort to reach everyone, but I do not believe that "works" will ever teach us about grace (even though faith will indeed produce fruit in our lives...). Help me, Lord, to process this and grow stronger in my own faith.