Photo by rawpixel.com on Pexels.com One of the things that James says about faith without works is that it is dead. Dead. I think I miss the strength of that image for a couple of reasons. One reason is that the passage is familiar, so I don't stop and think about the images he is… Continue reading Dead or Alive
What’s Your Proof?
Proof that we have faith, that we love Jesus, is that we are obedient to his teaching.
Simple Reminders
My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.James 2:1 NIV Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment. James 2:12-13 NIV Where have you… Continue reading Simple Reminders
Mirror, Mirror…
What do you see in the mirror? What mirror are you looking in?
We choose to go to the moon…
I've been thinking about the first chapter of James and all the things that KPaul has talked about in the last three weeks. (See the sermon series here.) Three points that have stood out to me: Perseverance is hard, but it gives you what you need later. (Week 1)Wisdom doesn't necessarily come instantly when we… Continue reading We choose to go to the moon…
The Grass of the Field
For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.
Whose Side Are You On?
This week in our Faith/Works series, we are looking at James 1:5-8. Here in this passage James tells us that if we need wisdom, we should ask God who will give it generously. It is God’s character to give generously to us. Jesus talks about this too: Ask and it will be given to you;… Continue reading Whose Side Are You On?
Courageous Perseverance
Sunday Pastor KPaul talked about James 1:1-4, about letting perseverance finish its work in our lives. (If you missed it, check it out here: Faith Works Sermons.) So while I was knitting today I have been pondering some things. The word perseverance (or steadfastness as some translations have it) implies that there are obstacles or difficulties… Continue reading Courageous Perseverance
Who is James?
The book of James is a letter. Since it is a letter, it is helpful to know who the author is and who the recipients are and, if possible, why the letter was written. Let’s start with the author. “James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,” is how the author is… Continue reading Who is James?
Looking Beyond the Circumstances
“Hark the herald angels sing; glory to the newborn King!” “O come let us adore him…for he alone is worthy.” “Let the earth receive her king.” This week we celebrate the birth of Jesus with songs that call for adoration of the baby Jesus, the King of glory. The King of angels. The King of… Continue reading Looking Beyond the Circumstances
