James 2 and 3 — Considerations of Faith
Introduction: Faith without works is dead. James condemns showing partiality toward the rich while despising the poor. He emphasizes that the tongue is a powerful instrument that can bring blessing or cursing.
Note: Bible passages are from the American King James Version.
A — Faith Without Works Is Dead
“James 2:14-26 What does it profit, my brethren, though a man say he has faith, and have not works? Can faith save him? For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. But some man will say, You have faith, and I have works: show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. For by works was Abraham justified, not by faith only.”
B — Do Not Show Partiality to the Rich
“James 2:1-13 My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. For if there come to your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; and you have respect to him that wears the gay clothing, and say to him, Sit you here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand you there, or sit here under my footstool: are you not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?”
Comments: Believers should not show favoritism based on wealth or appearance. God chose the poor to be rich in faith. Showing partiality violates God's law of love.
C — The Tongue Is a Powerful Instrument
“James 3:1-12 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole bodies. Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasts great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindles!”
Comments: The tongue, though small, wields great power for blessing or cursing. Controlling the tongue demonstrates spiritual maturity. Careless words reveal and shape the heart.
Reflections in Prayer
Lord, help my faith to manifest itself in works. I don't want my profession of faith to be empty words. Help me to see and value people as you do, never showing favoritism based on wealth or appearance. Teach me to welcome both the rich and the poor with equal honor. Guard my tongue, for I know its power to bless or curse. Give me wisdom to speak words of encouragement and truth. Help me to show mercy and judgment, knowing that mercy triumphs over judgment. Amen.
Published 24 February 2020
Comments: True faith manifests itself through action. A profession of faith without corresponding works is empty. Abraham's faith was demonstrated through his obedience and works.