All Nations Community Church
This series covers the book of James, a letter that serves as practical instructions for the Christian life. When we deal with trials, contentions, and lack of faith, James teaches us that we can still have joy in the midst of our circumstances. The foundation of the book is the importance of faith; faith or the lack thereof can determine the direction of one’s life.
James 1:26-27 ESV
James 2:1-13 ESV
James challenges followers to decide whether we are going to take religion on God's terms or we're going to settle for it on our terms, which one do we want?
Be careful before we answer. Martin Luther said, “A religion that gives nothing, costs nothing, and suffers nothing and is ultimately worth nothing.”
Three signs that you have Real Faith…
Sign # 1: Your Conversation, v. 26 – What does true religion look like in our lives? A controlled speech that displays a changed heart.
· Bridle means to “control.” That’s why some translations mention the “unbridled” tongue and others talk about keeping a “tight rein” on your tongue.
· The picture here is that if our speech does not honor and glorify God, then it’s an indication of the condition of our heart. And what James is saying is if we don't have control of our tongue then our religion is fake!
Sign # 2: Your Compassion, v. 27a – True religion moves us to action. We don’t just see the need and then walk away after saying a few good words (cf. Matthew 25:42-44)
· James singles out two groups deserve special attention: orphans and widows. Then he adds a qualifying phrase — “in their distress.” They are in distress precisely because they have no one to care for them.
· The religion God approves cares for those who cannot care for themselves.
Sign # 3: Your Character, v. 27 – Genuine religion keeps you from being stained by the world. Note vv. 26-27, Practical compassion, personal purity put right up next to one another.
Chapter 2:1-13 gives us a picture of how the church had bought into the world's system with favoritism. Takeaways from 2:1-13...
· First, we realize that partiality has no place among Followers, vv. 2-4.
· Second, partiality doesn’t agree with the Heart of God, vv. 5-7.
· Lastly, obeying ALL God’s law is imperative, vv. 10-13.
Reflect and Discuss:
1. One of the ways we can evaluate our personal relationship with the LORD is by taking a look at how we treat his people. What do the following verses have to say about how our treatment of others impacts or reveals our relationship with God?
2. When is it difficult for you to keep a tight rein on your tongue? How do you seek to do so?
3. James identified orphans and widows as people in his culture that needed specific help. Who would you add to the list of those in need in our day? What are some practical steps you could take to begin to care for those around you?
4. What can be learned from God’s view of favoritism that could help us when we’re tempted to play favorites?
5. As you examine your life, in what areas are you showing favoritism
toward some while neglecting those who may also need your attention?