James – Refined Faith 9-10-23
Part 16 James 5:19-20
“Successful Rescue”
Intro: In 5:18, James finishes the instructions for a life of works that reflect faith. In the last two verses, he gives a reminder to be ready/willing when a fellow believer is drifting away from the faith.
READ: James 5:19-20
Let’s explore this instruction by considering four questions:
I. What Does it Mean to “Wander”? (v.19)
A. There is the picture of “planaō”
(our word “planet” derived from the same root)
(they move compared to stars constant position)
B. In order to “wander”, one must have been stationary
(a person previously in the truth)
C. It can be doctrinally, practically, or both
(belief only-still living a moral life)
(lifestyle only-claims same belief but not living it)
(both-belief has changed with lifestyle)
II. What Does it Mean to be the “Someone”? (v.19)
A. One that’s a “star” compared to a “moving planet”
(consistent but not perfect)
(works reflecting the principles of James’ letter)
B. One with the right motive
(not eager to prove something, but burdened)
(patient for the right time but ready/willing)
C. One that is “spiritual” (Galatians 6:1-2)
(self-aware and gentle)
(loving-which is to fulfill the “Law of Christ”)
III. What Does it Mean to “Turn Back”? (v.19)
A. Literally a 180 degree turn around
B. There is a change of mind regarding the “wandering”
(not just friendlier coexistence)
IV. What Does it Mean to “Cover Sin”? (v.20)
A. Facilitation of reaching point of forgiveness
(past and current sin)
B. Prevention of future sin
(which affects them and ripple effect to others)
(“Way” (hodos) is literally “road”)
(path of life-ultimately leading to life)
(path of death-ultimately leading to death)
V. Conclusion
Open Discussion: What are the difficult/frustrating moments of this process?
How is prayer a part of the process?
Personal Question: Am I living a life that is consistent?
____________________
James – Refined Faith 9-3-23
Part 15 James 5:13-18
“A Lifestyle of Prayer”
Intro: As James concludes his instructions on the various applications of faith in day-to-day living, he ties it all together with the subject of prayer. Church history records James as a man known for his prayer life, and he offers great insight for those willing to hear about what a “lifestyle of prayer” looks like.
READ: James 5:13-18
He gives us four scenarios for active prayer:
I. When We are Suffering (v.13)
Context: Non-illness struggles of life
(persecution, challenges, anxieties, relationships, etc.)
Type of Prayer: Burden-lifting prayer
(For self)
(Intercession for others)
II. When We are Cheerful (v.13)
Context: When we are doing well
(times of peace and good events)
Type of Prayer: Personal offering
(Worship of the Lord as holy and righteous)
(Praise to the Lord for His worthiness)
(Thanks to the Lord for His gracious kindness/mercy)
III. When We are Sick (v.14)
Context: Illness and physical afflictions
Type of Prayer: Prayer for healing
(Due diligence first (medicinal oil, not just symbolic))
(Ask for restoration of health)
(If it’s a result of choices, then lifestyle change)
IV. When We are Wrong (v.16)
Context: Needing to make amends
Type of Prayer: Effective prayer
(Forgiveness)
(Growth)
(Peace)
(Purpose)
V. Conclusion
Open Discussion: How does the Holy Spirit help us in these if we’re willing?
Personal Question: How/where do you need God’s help in these types of prayers?
_______________________
James – Refined Faith 8-20-23
Part 14 James 5:1-12
“Be Different”
Intro: Throughout James’ letter, there are practical instructions regarding how to “work out our faith” (as Paul calls it in Philippians). In chapter 5, he reminds us of the world system around us (and its future), then pivots to remind us of what we are to be in the midst of it.
Before looking at the text in James, I would like for us to look one time at Paul’s words to the believers in Philippi:
Read: Philippians 2:12-16
In verse 15, Paul described it as lights shining in a “crooked and perverse” generation. With that in mind, let’s read our text for today:
READ: James 5:1-12
There are two parts in this section with the first one being the coming judgment of the oppressors in the current world system. He identifies four charges against those leading it:
I. They Hoard Wealth for Themselves
A. It has become rotten over time (v.2)
(empty of life and eternal value)
B. It is a witness against them (v.3)
(exhibit A of their heart condition)
II. They Defraud Those Less Powerful
A. Workers have not been compensated fairly
(the wage itself is a witness “cries out” v.4)
B. The Lord of Host hears the workers (v.4)
(the workers are a witness v.4)
III. They Focus on Themselves
A. Their life’s pursuit is pleasure (v.5)
B. Their life’s condition is unhealthy (v.5)
(physical illustration-spiritual sickness
IV. They Abuse the Just
A. False accusations against the just (righteous) (v.5)
B. Destruction of those without the power to resist
Next, in verses 7-12, James pivots to what we are supposed to be “in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation” (to borrow Paul’s words).
V. We are to Be Patient
A. It’s a mindset of choosing to see life different
B. He uses the picture of a farmer sowing/reaping
(Galatians 6:7 – Law of the Harvest)
VI. We are to Establish our Hearts
A. Hearts anchored to the Lord/His truth
(not pursuing pleasure)
B. Hearts are spiritually healthy
(proactive posture, unloading anxiety)
VII. We are to Be Gracious
A. Readily showing grace to others (Royal Law)
B. Remembering who the actual Judge is
(it’s not us)
VIII. We are to be Steadfast
A. He reminds us of the example of the prophets/Job
B. He reminds us of God’s intentions for them
(compassion and mercy)
IX. We are to be Above Reproach
A. Our word shouldn’t need oaths to give it weight
B. Our reputation should be one of proven integrity
(in word and deed)
X. Conclusion
Open Discussion: How have you seen these lived out?
What are practical benefits?
What are some challenges?
How do we stay focused?
Personal Question: How/where do you need God’s help in applying these truths?
_____________________
James – Refined Faith 8-13-23
Part 13 James 4:11-17
“Who’s in Charge?”
Intro: One of our core challenges (as humans with a fallen nature) is the natural bent toward wanting to be the boss. Regardless of personality type, there are occasions where that becomes a struggle.
In considering our passage today, there are two Biblical principles for us to be mindful of before we begin:
Proverbs 1:7a – “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge”.
(a reverence and acknowledgement of Him)
Philippians 2:12b-13 – “…work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and do for His good pleasure.”
With both of those in mind, let’s read our text:
READ: James 4:11-17
I. Remember the Royal Law When Speaking of Others
Note: The Royal Law (James 2:8, Leviticus 19:18 & 34)
(Jesus also affirmed it several ways)
A. The truth of the words is not really the issue
(the underlying motive is the problem)
B. There is the speaker and the listener
(we shouldn’t have a ready ear for that)
C. Many things are simply better left unsaid
(God knows and doesn’t need our commentary)
II. Remember the Royal Law When Considering Others
A. We’re prone to apply a double-standard to others
(breaking the Royal Law)
B. We’re prone to attempt assuming the role of Judge
(reserved for God)
C. We have plenty to “tend to” in our own lives/walk
III. Remember our Limited Control When Making Plans
A. The goals James mentions are not the issue
(they are good goals to have)
B. The brevity of life is the first point to remember
(vapor illustration)
C. Admitting our limited knowledge/power is the second
(pride is the issue)
IV. Conclusion
Open Discussion: How does this all fit with Paul’s instructions to “work out our salvation”
Personal Question: How/where do you need God’s help in applying these truths?
____________________
James – Refined Faith 8-6-23
Part 12 James 4:7-10
“A Framework for Friendship with God”
Intro: As James is discussing peace (or lack of it) within believers and fellowships, he uses the concept of friendship to illustrate our spiritual relationships. He drew on the same concept back in chapter 2 when referencing the subject of Abraham’s faith as he described him as “the friend of God”.
The next four verses of our study give us a framework for “friendship with God”. James connects them to the previous six verses with a “therefore”, so let’s consider what we’re instructed to do after the “therefore”:
READ: James 4:7-10
The framework involves four questions:
I. What is our Posture before God? (v.7-8a)
A. We are to submit to God (v.7)
(an embracing of His authority over us)
B. We are to resist the devil (v.7)
(a rejection of his authority over us)
C. We are to stay near to God (v.8a)
(a daily relational closeness)
II. What are our Pursuits in Life? (v.8b)
A. Cleanse hands/purify hearts
(a ceremonial separation from the world)
B. Be in unity with God (not double-minded)
(value what He values)
III. What is our Perspective on Sin? (v.9)
A. Remember the destruction it’s brought in the past
(lament, mourn, weep)
B. Be wise to the destruction it brings now
(a seriousness toward it and not accommodation)
IV. What is our Perception of Ourselves? (v.10)
A. A proper assessment of who we are
(recipients of needed grace and mercy)
B. We are to follow Jesus’ model (which He chose)
(Read: Philippians 2:5-11)
(willingly and not a begrudging submission)
V. Conclusion
Open Discussion: Which question is the hardest? Why?
How did Abraham model these as “the friend of God”?
Personal Question: Which of the four areas could use some attention in your life?
______________________________________
James – Refined Faith 7-30-23
Part 11 James 4:1-6 “Pride and Humility”
Intro: At the end of the last section, James draws attention to peace as the fruit of righteousness when one is walking in wisdom “from above”. The next section goes further to help us understand the lack of peace found in one’s own life, a lack of peace in a local fellowship or even a lack of peace between fellowships. Verses 1-10 give us sources and solutions, and we will break them down into two studies with today first considering 1-6:
READ: James 4:1-6
I. The Source of Conflict (v.1-2a)
(3:14 lays the foundation as selfish ambitions)
A. There are internal conflicts within us
(the flesh demands appeasement)
B. There are external conflicts with others
(the flesh naturally competes and compares)
II. The Source of Unproductive Prayer (v.2b-3)
A. There is a reluctance to pray (v.2)
(no prayer activity in general)
(discomfort or attitude of self-sufficiency)
READ: I John 3:22 & 5:14
B. There are wrong motives in the requests
(self-centered or worldly goals)
(lack of interest in God’s will or others’ benefit)
III. The Source of Distance with God (v.4-5)
A. There is the “wanting” for the relationship (v.4)
(a growing friendship with the world)
B. There is the “making” of enmity (v.4)
(an unfaithfulness to the Holy Spirit within us)
IV. The Source of Grace Toward Us (v.6)
A. God actively resists pride/prideful people
(a picture of a military defensive array)
B. God readily gives more and more grace to the humble
(unmerited gift to those admitting their need)
V. Conclusion
Open Discussion: What areas do you find most common in our Christian culture today and why?
Personal Questions: Where do you find your greatest area of challenge? Conflict? Prayer issues? Friendship with the world?
____________________________
James – Refined Faith 7-23-23
Part 10 James 3:13-18 “Wisdom”
Intro: True wisdom is a rare commodity throughout history and our time is no different. We could even say it has become more rare in recent years, even though access to the truth has gotten easier.
James offers foundational truth regarding wisdom for anyone interested so let’s take a look:
READ: James 3:13-18
I. The Wisdom “not from above” (v.15)
A. This “wisdom” is rooted in:
- bitter envy (I deserve what you have and better)
- selfish ambition (me-first)
B. This “wisdom” is described as (v.14-15):
- Prideful
- Dishonest
- Earthly (from the system around us)
- Sensual (from the appetites within us)
- Demonic (from the spiritual forces against us…all)
C. This “wisdom” produces (v.16):
- Confusion (disorder)
- Every evil thing
II. The Wisdom “from above”
A. This wisdom is rooted in (v.17):
– purity
B. This wisdom is described as (v.17):
- peaceable
- gentle
- willing to yield (reasonable)
- merciful
- impartial (sincere)
- unhypocritical (consistent)
C. This wisdom produces (v.18)
- peace (sown in peace while making peace)
- righteousness (every good thing)
III. Choosing the Better Wisdom
A. The wisdom of this world comes by default
(one doesn’t have to necessarily do anything)
(it’s not true wisdom, but a system-savviness)
B. The wisdom from heaven comes by proactivity
- Prayer
- Knowledge of the Word
- Meditating/filling thoughts w/ Biblical truth (Phil. 4:8-9)
- Holy Spirit changing us from within
- Holy Spirit connecting dots for wise application
IV. Conclusion
Questions: What are some contrasts you see between the two types of wisdom? Is your life a Godly contrast or does it look more like the wisdom of the world?
________________________________
James – Refined Faith 7-16-23
Part 9 James 3:1-12 “The Power of Words”
Intro: We are surrounded by speech of all kinds everyday. It can be good, bad, neutral, humorous, boring, uplifting, degrading, hostile, informative, public, private, personal, etc., etc., etc.
In other words, it’s a major part of our lives. That being true, James has much to say about it, so let’s take a look:
READ: James 3:1-12
I. Our Speech has a Far-Reaching Impact
A. Words have enormous power
(spoken, written and non-verbal)
B. Words are a direct reflection of our heart
(according to Jesus – Matthew 12:33-37, 15:15-20)
C. Words are a universal/on-going problem for us all (v.2)
(we all will have points of struggle)
II. Our Speech is to Yield to God’s Authority
A. We must receive these words as true in our hearts
(not just in word (2:14-26)
B. We must admit our need for forgiveness/help
(universal problem/need)
C. We must be willing to submit to His adjustments (v.3-4)
(turning of the rudder, pulling on the reigns)
(an unwilling horse is of little use)
III. Our Speech is to be Empowered by the Holy Spirit
A. For the big-picture purposes of our speech
(Psalm 19-God’s glory)
(people are made in the image of God v.9)
B. For the day-to-day reflection of Christ in us
(right kind of fruit and water v.11-12)
(fruit of the Spirit…)
C. For eternal purposes that are not easily measured
(salvation, encouragement, correction, inspiration)
“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver” – Proverbs 25:11 NKJV
IV. Conclusion
Questions: What changes need to be made? Are you willing to let the Spirit address those needs?
__________________________
James – Refined Faith 7-9-23
Part 8 James 2:14-26 “Real Faith”
Intro: In recent months, the subject of “AI” has been in the news a lot regarding academic use, business applications, entertainment platforms and various criminal uses. Although it’s presented as something “living”, it really is only a reflection of programming and inputs from someone actually alive. In a sense, it is mimicking life, but not truly life made in the image of God.
In a similar way, James describes true faith compared to something only stated to be so. Let’s take a look:
READ: James 2:14-26
I. Real Faith is Transformational (v.23)
A. It’s a pronouncement of status-change in the ledger
(“accounted” or “credited”)
B. It is based on grace by faith (Ephesians 2:8-10)
(it is not earned by works
C. It reflects a heart-change and newness of life
(we are a new creation-II Corinthians 5:17)
(it’s why Jesus declared the thief redeemed)
(it’s what God sees/knows)
II. Real Faith Produces Evidence (v.18)
A. It’s proven by “artifacts” over time
(they are readily observable)
B. The “artifacts” reflect Jesus and the Holy Spirit
(fruit of the Spirit)
(a disciple becoming like his Master)
(if the thief had lived, he would have been different)
(the pronouncement would have been proven)
C. The “artifacts” include actions toward other people
(I John 3:16-19)
III. Real Faith is Dynamic (v.26)
A. The Holy Spirit’s presence produces on-going change
B. “Word-only faith” sounds right but has no follow-through
(v. 15-17)
C. “Word-only faith” will not be proven
READ: Mathew 7:15-23
IV. Conclusion
Three possibilities:
- Real Faith-Real works (growing disciple)
- Real Faith-minimal works (action needed)
- Word-only Faith-No real works (salvation needed)
____________________________
James – Refined Faith 7-2-23
Part 7 James 2:1-13 “Equality”
Intro: In recent years, the foundational principle of “equality” has been attacked and undermined with “equity” offered as the correct upgrade. Similar to the concept of “fairness”, equity is based on self-sourced opinions (which will vary) and dictates outcomes instead of the guarantee of opportunities. The end result is often suspicion, hostility, division and hatred because it focuses attention on perceived shortcomings of others.
The Biblical model is quite the opposite. For the disciple, the focus is to be more inward than outward, and love toward others instead of self. James illustrated the principle with a hypothetical from a routine gathering of the early church. Let’s take a look:
READ: James 2:1-13
I. As Disciples We Must Manage Our Assumptions
A. We must not assume what the Holy Spirit will do (v.1)
(we do not know how, when, in who He may work)
B. We must not assume character by appearance
(they can be both positive and negative for each)
C. We must not assume the “sophisticated” mindset (v.5)
(Jesus was interested in true disciples, and still is)
II. As Disciples We Must Manage our Motives
A. James’ illustration revealed a differentiation of people
(they would place more value on the well-dressed)
(in a similar way celebrity “faith” is often promoted)
B. James basically asks, “Why desire their approval?”
(and mentions the hostility of the affluent)
(similar for us, “Why seek affirmation of the famous?)
C. We dishonor God by dishonoring a lowly believer (v.6)
(He does the choosing and saving, not us)
III. As Disciples We Must Manage our Behavior
A. We are all sinners in need of grace/forgiveness (v.10-11)
B. We must understand God’s expectations of us
(an active Micah 6:8 mindset)
C. The “Law of Liberty” is our guide (v.12 & 1:25)
D. The “royal law” is our mandate toward others (v.8)
(Jesus in Matthew 22:34-40 commanded the same)
IV. Conclusion
Question: What part of this is the most challenging?
Are you willing to pray now for God’s help in overcoming it?
____________________________________
James – Refined Faith 6-25-23
Part 6 James 1:22-27 “Hearing and Doing”
Intro: There’s a building supply store currently using a marketing campaign in which their customers are referred to as “doers”. You could say James was the originator of the concept of describing certain people as “doers”. He differentiated them from “hearers only” so let’s take a look at what he described as “doers of the Word”:
READ: James 1:22-27
I. “Doers” Look Intently into the Word
A. The Word is truth and reflects reality as it really is
(like a mirror whether utilized or not)
B. We must be able to see the mirror (v.21)
(setting aside the worldliness that blocks our view)
C. We must be diligent to consult the Word
(expecting the see and receive something)
II. “Doers” Make Honest Assessments of Themselves
A. We must act on what the Word actually shows us
(like seeing “bedhead” in the morning)
B. We must be willing to look at the full assessment
(and not just the easy “feel-good” passages)
C. We must remember the “Why?” behind it
(the law of liberty reflecting redemption, not for show)
(we will be blessed “in” what we do not “for” it v.25)
III. “Doers” Live as Authentic Disciples of Jesus
Quote: “Too many Christians want to enjoy the thrill of feeling right but are not willing to endure the inconvenience of being right”. – A.W. Tozer
Bonus Quote: “Many people mark their Bibles, but their Bibles never mark them.” – Warren Wiersbe
A. First, we must avoid self-deception (v.22)
B. Second, we must “bridle the tongue” (v.26)
(or our “religion” is useless)
C. Third, our beliefs must be on-going actions
(illustration of taking care of widows/ophans)
(a Jewish mandate often conveniently ignored)
D. Fourth, we are to be “unstained” by the world
(a “called out” fellowship of “called-out” people)
IV. Conclusion
Question: What are the challenges of the “inconvenience of being right” in the Tozer quote?
_____________________________
James – Refined Faith 6-18-23
Part 5 James 1:19-21 “Receiving”
Intro: We live in a time when everybody seems to “want to be heard”…even demanding an audience on whatever subject, idea, or preference pops into the mind. There is a lot more noise, but less truth.
James however gives us a passage contrasting that approach, let’s take a look:
READ: James 1:19-21
Special Note: For these three verses, the key to the passage is the conjunction “therefore” at the beginning of verse 21 (describing the receiving of the Word). Often times the “quick to listen” and “slow to speak” parts of v.19 are mentioned as general principles (which is very good), but James’ purpose is even deeper and foundational. He is describing a mindset that guides us from within toward God which ultimately affects our mindset toward life and others. With that in mind:
I. We are to be Interested in Hearing the Word (v.19a)
A. Interest includes a predisposition to listen
(an active readiness, hoping to hear)
B. Interest includes a preclusive process to avoid sin
(desiring to work it out first in thought with God)
C. Interest includes a predetermination to yield to the truth
(decision ahead of time that the Word is superior)
II. We are to be Measured in Speaking the Word (v.19b)
A. Slow in choosing the subject to address
(sometimes we it simply don’t need to speak)
(sometimes we don’t know enough to speak)
B. Slow in choosing the time to speak
(sometimes we wait for a more appropriate time)
(sometimes one or both aren’t ready to speak/hear)
C. Slow in choosing what to speak
(sometimes the less said is better)
(sometimes framing is very important)
III. We are to Humbly Receive to the Word (v.19c-21)
A. We are to set aside the “pride filter”
(not be defensive or make excuses toward the truth)
B. We are to embrace the Word at the heart level
C. We are to remember the soul-saving power of the Word
(why we are saved, not of ourselves)
D. We are to remember that our reactions have an impact
(righteousness verses unrighteousness)
IV. Conclusion
Question: Where are you in hearing vs. speaking?
____________________________
James – Refined Faith 6-11-23
Part 4 James 1:13-18 “Temptation”
Intro: There was an old T.V. show that made the phrase “The devil made me do it” popular as a humorous way of dismissing sin. Many travel through life with a similar approach of “Oh well, everybody does it”.
However, those of us in Christ are called to live a life set-apart to the Lord in a world filled with temptation. James addresses that next in our study, let’s take a look:
READ: James 1:13-18
I. The Character of God and Temptation (v.13)
A. All people are subject to temptation
(even Adam/Eve were in the perfect/good garden)
B. God is not subject to temptation
(Jesus was tempted as fully human & fully God)
(Jesus proved that God is above the power of sin)
C. God does not/cannot tempt
(it is nowhere in His nature, only righteousness)
II. The Character of Humanity and Temptation (v.14-15)
A. There are certain appetites/predispositions in us
(temptation finds receptivity in those areas)
(they can be subtle such as insecurity, vanity, etc.)
(they can be sudden/destructive like lust, theft, etc.)
READ: I John 2:15-17
B. Temptation plus desire produces a result of sin
(like conception produces a new person)
C. The “new result” of sin grows into a “dead” existence
(one that is the opposite of abundance in Christ)
(not loss of salvation, but walking in the flesh)
III. Finding Strength to Resist Temptation (v.16-18)
A. Be aware that deception is a real possibility/danger
(especially self-deception, rationalization)
B. We must be mindful of the desire + temptation moments
C. We must focus on the “good and perfect” things of God
(everything God creates/orchestrates is good/right)
(The prophet’s story to David contrasting two men)
(one was Godly and pure, one was lustful/covetous)
D. We must trust/ask the Spirit to empower us to overcome
E. The results of His presence are different than the world’s
(love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control – Gal. 5:22-23)
IV. Conclusion
Question: As we close in prayer, in which of these areas do you need strength in the most?
_______________________________
James – Refined Faith 6-4-23
Part 3 James 1:9-12 “Blessed”
Intro: In Matthew chapter 5, Jesus opened His sermon with a series of statements about being “blessed”. He described a state of contentment based on a forward-looking hope and future reality that affects the here-and-now.
In our passage today, James takes a similar approach and addresses one’s station in life and the general trials that come along. Let’s take a look:
READ: James 1:9-12
Along with it, I want to include this verse from Psalm 90 (which is the oldest Psalm) and credited to Moses:
“So teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12 NKVJ
“To number” means to consider each one & make it count.
Today, let’s consider wrote James said about being blessed:
I. We are Blessed in a Humble Station (v.9)
A. The earthly reality of it
(there are practical, daily challenges)
(his readers would have been very familiar)
B. The common temptations
(frustration, anger, covetousness, loss of faith)
(political theories of forcing class equality)
C. The eternal truth
(the abundant life now-fruit of the Spirit)
(the riches of glory to come)
II. We are Blessed in an Elevated Station (v.10-11)
A. The earthly reality of it
(there are practical, daily benefits)
(there are practical daily challenges and worries)
B. The common temptations
(pride and a sense of self-sufficiency)
C. The eternal truth
(possessions, titles, etc. are all fleeting, temporary)
(heavenly treasure is eternal and protected)
III. We are Blessed Through Trials (v.12)
A. The earthly reality of it
(the process and struggle itself)
(the feelings of helplessness)
(the many questions of “Why?”)
B. The common temptations
(anger, bitterness, loss of faith)
C. The eternal truth
(the receiving of the “Crown of Life”)
(the peace of the promises of the Lord)
IV. Conclusion
Question: What challenges your feeling “blessed” the most?
_____________________________
James – Refined Faith 5-28-23
Part 2 James 1:5-8 “The Asking”
Intro: A short recap
Last week we started with four thoughts:
I. The greeting of a bondservant
II. Joy is to be the Default Position
III. We are Reminded to be Aware of Time
IV. The Process of Maturity Takes Time/Events
Today we move on to “The ask”:
READ: James 1:5-8
I. The Observation (v.5)
A. We must recognize the contrast of God’s wisdom
(as compared to the world’s)
B. We must admit our limits of wisdom and need for His
C. We must recognize His gracious and generous ways
(giving without criticism or mocking)
II. The Internalization (v.6a)
A. Faith is the key and is in God’s faithfulness
B. Faith is also trusting that God sees from a better angle
(His perspective is better)
C. Faith is also remembering His kind ways
(especially when it doesn’t appear that way)
III. The Implementation (v.6-8)
A. The wind is an external force driving the waves
(the world’s wisdom and reasoning)
(my will versus His)
(my goals versus His)
B. God’s wisdom builds a fortification against the wind
C. The end result is a God trusting, single-mindedness
IV. Conclusion
Question: Do you really believe His way is better?
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James – Refined Faith 5-21-23
Part 1 James 1:1-4 “The Proving”
Intro: The “proving” process is part of many different activities for removing impurities (like in purifying gold), testing a design (such as a new car design), or placing something under stress (like weight a concrete mix can support before breaking).
James was led to write a letter that deals with the refining process of faith. It’s strait forward and densely packed with both information and instruction. Today, we’re looking at the first four verses and the benefits of trials.
Let’s take a look:
READ: James 1:1-4
I. The Greeting of a Bondservant (v.1)
A. James chose a humble reference for himself, not
(Brother of Jesus, Pastor/leader, etc.)
B. The letter addresses Jewish believers already saved
(in other words, “Let’s get down to business”)
(assumes reliance on God, not flesh to accomplish)
II. Joy is to be the Default Disposition (v.2)
A. Count (or consider) – remember it’s for a purpose
(count as an accounting term – ROI)
B. When – James tells us that it is going to happen
(not “if”)
C. Various – every type, size, time and duration
(and people are often a main source too)
III. We are Reminded to be Aware Ahead of Time (v.3)
A. Know – testing is an essential part of maturing
(it helps us to see what God already knows)
B. Patience – there is an end product
(other translations – “endurance” – “to bear up under”
IV. The Process of Maturity Takes Time/Events (v.4)
A. Let – we need to learn to trust/be ok with the process
B. Be – we are to desire maturity/completeness as a goal
V. Conclusion
Question: What’s the toughest part?
Keeping Joy? Being OK with the Process?
Dealing with People? Other?
Let’s pray specifically about those now…
cchrisholland 