Historical Posts
Faith and Works – Audio
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Text: James 2:14-26
I. Faith and works were present in Abraham.
A. Abraham first showed his faith by leaving his land and family, as God commanded him (Genesis 12:1-5; Hebrews 11:8-10).
B. He also showed his faith by offering Isaac on the altar (James 2:21-24; Hebrews 11:17-19; Genesis 22:1-18).
II. Faith and works were present in Rahab.
A. Rahab hid the spies, and spared their lives (Joshua 2:1-13).
B. By letting a scarlet cord out of the window, her life was spared when the city of Jericho was overtaken (Joshua 6:22-25; Hebrews 11:31).
III. Faith and works must be present in us.
A. Faith
1. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).
2. Faith is necessary to come to God (Hebrews 11:6).
3. Faith comes from hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17).
4. Faith without works is dead (James 2:17,20,26).
B. Works
1. Works admit us into the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 7:21-23).
2. Works show the love of God in us (1 John 3:17-18).
3. Works will be remembered by God (Hebrews 6:10).
4. Works must be done in the meekness of wisdom (James 3:13).
5. Works make faith perfect (James 2:22) and justifies it (James 2:24).
C. Faith and works were not both present in demons (James 2:19; Matthew 8:28-29; Mark 1:23-24).
D. Faith and works are both present in us when we:
1. Hear God’s Word (Romans 10:17).
2. Believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God (John 8:24).
3. Repent of our sins (Luke 13:3,5).
4. Confess Christ (Matthew 10:32; Romans 10:9-10).
5. Are baptized for the remission of our sins (Mark 16:16; Acts 2:38).
6. Live faithful Christian lives unto our deaths (Revelation 2:10).
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
Content by Richard Dillon
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James 02:14-20 – Jesus Finds Great Faith
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Text: James 2:14-20
Introduction
A. Do you have the kind of faith that Jesus would be impressed with?
B. How would He know your level of faith?
1) James tells us that even demons believe…and tremble!
2) Demons do not act upon their faith as we should.
C. Our faith, however, must work.
Body
I. Faith is essential.
A. Faith is described as the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).
B. Faith comes from hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17).
C. Faith pleases God, when we come to Him (Hebrews 11:6).
II. Jesus commended some for their great faith.
A. A centurion asked Jesus to just speak the word, and his servant would be healed; Jesus said He has not found such great faith in Israel (Matthew 8:5-10; Luke 7:2-9).
B. Faith of the blind led Jesus to heal them.
1) Blind men came to Jesus, and He healed them according to their faith (Matthew 9:27-30).
2) A blind beggar named Bartimaeus sat near Jericho and cried out to Jesus, and his faith made him well (Luke 18:35-43).
C. Jesus saw the faith of those that brought a paralytic to Him (Matthew 9:1-2; Mark 2:1-5; Luke 5:17-20).
D. Jesus described the faith of the Canaanite woman as great (Matthew 15:22-28).
E. A woman with an issue of blood was made well because of her faith (Matthew 9:20-22; Mark 5:25-34; Luke 8:43-48).
F. A renown sinner was saved because of her faith (Luke 7:37-50).
G. Jesus told the thankful leper that his faith made him well (Luke 17:12-19).
III. Jesus wants us to have as great a faith.
A. Jesus told the disciples if they have faith as a mustard seed, nothing will be impossible for them (Matthew 17:20; Luke 17:5-6).
B. Paul taught the Romans that through Christ he received the apostleship for obedience to the faith (Romans 1:5-6).
C. Paul commanded Timothy to pursue faith with those that call on the Lord with a pure heart (2 Timothy 2:22).
D. Paul sent to know the faith of the Thessalonians, and was encouraged by Timothy’s good report of it (1 Thessalonians 3:5-10).
Conclusion
A. Would Jesus say of you, “Great is your faith”?
B. Are you coming to Him, doing His will?
C. Are your works evidence of your faith?
D. Is there a good report of your faith?
Content by Richard Dillon
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James 05:19-20 Restoring Straying Saints – audio
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Text: James 5:19-20
Introduction
1. As James comes to the close of his epistle, he stresses the importance of restoring those who wander from the truth:
2. Restoring straying saints is a responsibility given to ALL who are truly the children of God – Galatians 6:1-2; 1 Thessalonians 5:14
3. Yet, it is a responsibility that is so easy to neglect, and in most cases IS neglected!
4. The purpose of this lesson is two-fold:
a. To impress upon our minds the importance of engaging in this work of restoring straying saints
b. To tell us how we should carry out this important work
Body
I. THE CONDITION OF SAINTS WHO HAVE STRAYED FROM THE TRUTH
A. AS DEFINED BY JAMES IN OUR TEXT
1. They are in danger of DEATH! – James 5:20
2. One who has wandered from the truth has also wandered from the from the source of forgiveness – 1 John 1:6-7
3. Separated from the blood of Christ to cleanse him of his sins, he is in danger of suffering the consequences of sin: DEATH! – Romans 6:23
B. AS DEPICTED BY PETER
1. “The latter end is worse for them than the beginning” – 2 Peter 2:20-22
2. That such a person is in danger of more serious punishment is stressed by Jesus – Luke 12:47-48
C. AS DESCRIBED IN THE EPISTLE TO THE HEBREWS – Hebrews 10:26-31
1. “There no longer remains a sacrifice for sins” — the blood of Christ is no longer available for him in this state!
2. “but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation” — all that remains is to be eternally lost in hell!
3. “much worse punishment…will he be thought worthy” — because such a person is trampling underfoot the Son of God, counting the blood of Jesus which had sanctified him a common thing, and is insulting the Spirit of grace!
4. “the LORD will judge His people” — for those who despise His mercy, they will face His righteous indignation!
D. AS DECLARED BY JESUS HIMSELF
1. Such will be removed from His presence! – Revelation 2:4-5
2. He will expel such from His presence! – Revelation 3:15-16
E. When we truly understand the spiritual condition of our friends and loved ones who have strayed from the truth, it should move us to do something!
II. RESTORING STRAYING SAINTS
A. IT REQUIRES SPECIAL ATTRIBUTES
1. PEOPLE WHO ARE SPIRITUAL – Galatians 6:1
a. Those who are producing the fruit of the Spirit in their own lives – Galatians 5:22-23
b. Unqualified personnel need not apply for this work
1) They might best work on themselves first – Matthew 7:3-4
2) Then they can help others – Matthew 7:5
2. A SPIRIT OF GENTLENESS – Galatians 6:1
a. We are engaged in delicate “soul surgery”
b. This is not the time to misuse the “sword of the Spirit”!
3. A CONSTANT SENSE OF SELF-EXAMINATION – Galatians 6:1
a. If we are not careful, we can easily fall into the same fault!
b. As many do when they counsel those with marital problems without proper supervision
4. A WILLINGNESS TO BEAR ONE ANOTHER’S BURDENS – Galatians 6:2
a. Which involves an expense of time and energy to help the weak to overcome their faults
b. Our responsibility is not fulfilled by simply pointing out our brother’s faults!
5. HUMILITY
a. This is implied in Galatians 6:3
b. It is stated outright – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
c. People will not accept correction or advice coming from an arrogant person!
d. In many cases, we may need to confess our own sin of negligence first! (For not coming sooner)
6. AMPLE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD’S WORD – 2 Timothy 2:24
a. We must be able to teach and apply God’s Word to the situation
b. For it is important that they respond to GOD’S word, and not just to OUR views or opinions!
7. PATIENCE (Longsuffering) – 2 Timothy 2:24
a. The same kind that we receive from God for our faults
b. The same kind that Paul showed towards the church at <a target=”_blank” href=”http://www.biblemap.org/#Corinth”>Corinth</a> – 2 Corinthians 1:23-2:3
c. Of course, if repentance is not forthcoming, we can wait for only so long – 2 Corinthians 13:1-2
8. A SINCERE DEMONSTRATION OF LOVE
a. Both at the time of rebuke – 2 Corinthians 2:4
b. And at the time of repentance – 2 Corinthians 2:6-8
B. IT REQUIRES THE PROPER PROCEDURE
1. The wrong procedures:
a. Running around and talking to everyone but the person who needs to be corrected and restored!
b. Preaching about these people from the pulpit at the very outset!
c. Bringing it up at congregational business meetings at the very first!
2. The proper procedure is outlined by Jesus – Matthew 18:15-17
a. Even though the sin may not be against you personally
1) This is still a good way to avoid misunderstanding
2) This is still more likely to succeed
b. Therefore:
1) Go to the person first
2) Then take others, if necessary
3) Then tell it to the church, if necessary
4) If he won’t hear the church, withdraw any association that might appear to give approval to their behavior – 1 Corinthians 5:1-13; 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15; Romans 16:17
Conclusion
1. The work of restoring or correcting saints may be unpleasant at times, but it has the potential for great joy!
a. Both in heaven: “I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” – Luke 15:7
b. And in our hearts: “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” – 3 John 1:4
2. It comes down to this:
a. Do we really love God?
b. Do we really love our straying brethren?
c. Read 1 John 3:16-19, and substitute “spiritual goods” for “world’s goods” to answer our question
3. Brethren, let us love one another!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 05:13-18 A Call to Prayer and Praise – audio
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Text: James 5:13-18
Introduction
(Note on Bible Correspondence Course from Pakistan)
1. As is common in many of the New Testament epistles, we find various commands and exhortations as we draw near to the end of the epistle of James
2. In James 5:13-18, we find a call to pray and sing praises, with guidance as to what to do and when
Body
I. IN TIMES OF SUFFERING, LET US “PRAY” – James 5:13
A. WHAT KIND OF SUFFERING DOES JAMES REFER TO?
1. The word used refers to suffering of any kind
2. Such as sickness, bereavement, disappointment, persecutions, loss of health or property
3. Later, James will deal specifically with sickness
B. FOR WHAT SHOULD WE PRAY?
1. For the REMOVAL of the suffering, if it be the Lord’s will – 2 Corinthians 12:8-10
2. For STRENGTH to endure suffering, if it be the Lord’s will that we bear it – 1 Corinthians 10:13
a. God may not always remove the source of our suffering, for it may be for our ultimate good – Psalms 119:67, 71
b. But He promises to help us endure it!
C. FOR WHOM SHOULD WE PRAY?
1. Certainly for ourselves, as implied above
2. But also for those who may be the source of our suffering
a. As Jesus taught in Luke 6:28
b. Doing this can help greatly to endure the suffering
II. IN TIMES OF CHEER, LET US “SING PRAISES” – James 5:13
A. THE WORD “CHEERFUL”
1. Denotes pleasantness, agreeableness
2. It suggests a state of mind free from trouble, the opposite of affliction, happy!
B. IN SUCH A STATE OF HAPPINESS, ONE SHOULD SING PRAISES!
1. For singing praises is what God’s people have always done
a. Consider the attitude of David, the sweet singer of Israel – Psalms 92:1-2; 96:1-2; 101:1; 111:1; 113:1-3; 146:1-2; 147:1; 149:1
b. David was a man after God’s own heart, shouldn’t we be also?
2. For singing praises has the power to make a good situation even better – Ephesians 5:18-19; Colossians 3:16
C. WHY DON’T SOME CHRISTIANS SING PRAISES MORE OFTEN, MORE FERVENTLY?
1. Are they that “afflicted”?
2. Hasn’t God done enough in our lives to prompt us to praise Him fervently in song?
3. What excuse can we possibly give for refusing to praise God for His glory and goodness?
a. We cannot use the excuse that we cannot sing
b. God “commands” all to sing, and unless we are “mute” the command applies to us
c. Fortunately, God is not concerned with how it sounds, but that it is coming from the heart, therefore all who can speak can and should sing!
4. Heaven is described by John in the Book of Revelation as a place where singing praises to God and Christ is an on-going activity – Revelation 15:3
a. If we don’t sing praises to God on earth, though able:
b. Can we really expect to be allowed to praise God in heaven?
III. IN TIMES OF SICKNESS, LET US “PRAY” – James 5:14-18
A. ADMITTEDLY, THIS PASSAGE IS DIFFICULT
1. Questions abound concerning it
a. Is the sickness physical or spiritual?
b. Is the anointing with oil medicinal or symbolic?
c. Is the healing through providential means or miraculous?
d. Is the healing spiritual or physical?
2. First, I believe the sickness and healing in this passage is physical, though spiritual needs are taken into consideration
a. This is in view of the phrase “and IF he has committed sins, he will be forgiven”
b. This implies the sickness is physical, though it MAY be accompanied with spiritual sickness as well
c. But the conditional “IF” makes it clear that the illness may not be accompanied by sin, which if true, would mean the illness is not spiritual, but physical
3. With the assumption that physical illness is being discussed, then there are two feasible alternatives
a. This passage refers to MIRACULOUS HEALING
1) The elders were called because they possessed the gift of healing
2) The anointing with oil was symbolic, representing the influences of the Holy Spirit – Mark 6:13
b. This passage refers to PROVIDENTIAL HEALING
1) The elders were called because they were likely the most righteous in a congregation – James 5:16
2) The anointing with oil was medicinal, as was commonly practiced in those days – Luke 10:34
4. I lean toward the latter explanation
a. The first explanation must assume that the elders in every church possessed the gift of healing, which is not likely for two reasons:
1) We have no record of such in the New Testament
2) The qualifications for elders did not require this gift -1Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9
b. In illustrating the efficacy of prayer, James uses an example of God providentially answering prayer – 1 Kings 18:41-45
1) God was indeed answering Elijah’s prayer
2) But God did so, providentially, working through natural means
B. WITH THIS UNDERSTANDING, LETS MAKE THE APPLICATION
1. In times of physical sickness, call for the elders of the church
a. You want the prayers of the “righteous” working in your behalf, don’t you?
b. Notice: You are to call for them, not wait for them to call on you!
c. Have the elders pray with you
1) In faith (Trusting in the Lord’s power to heal, if it be His will)
2) Fervently (“the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”)
2. Elders should not only pray, but see that appropriate medical aids are provided
a. In a century where hospitals were non-existent, and physicians were rare, anointing with oil was a common treatment – Luke 10:34
b. In our present century, this would involve the elders making sure that the sick receive the treatment needed
3. The sick should also confess their sins, if they have any
a. Verse 15 makes it clear that sickness is not always the consequence of sin
b. But verse 16 and others (Like 1 Corinthians 11:29-32) suggests that illnesses may be God’s loving chastisement for sin, in an effort to direct us back to Him
c. In any case, sins need to be confessed and forgiveness sought if we hope to have God hear our prayers
Conclusion
1. However one interprets James 5:14-16, there is no dispute over the main thrust in this passage
a. Prayer and praise are very special privileges for the Christian
b. There is not a time in our life when we shouldn’t be doing one or the other
c. We must be careful not to underestimate:
1) The importance of praise
2) The power of prayer
2. But to truly benefit from these two spiritual exercises, we need to be in a right relationship with God
a. Which involves being open to God’s Word, “One who turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination” – Proverbs 28:9
b. And being a doer of God’s will, “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven” – Matthew 7:21
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 05:07-12 Handling Oppression – audio
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Text: James 5:7-12
Introduction
1. Do you feel like someone is out to get you? That they are trying to take advantage of you? That you are being oppressed?
2. What should you do when you are oppressed? What should you NOT do?
3. In James 5, we find James giving instructions to those who are being oppressed
a The rich had been holding back their wages – James 5:4
b. The rich had been oppressing the righteous – James 5:6
c. What were the oppressed Christians to do?
4. In James 5:7-12 (And surrounding verses), we find principles and instructions which help us to see what Christians should do when they are oppressed
Body
I. DON’T RESIST
A. SUCH WAS THE BEHAVIOR OF THOSE BEING OPPRESSED IN JAMES’ DAY
1. Notice James 5:4-6
2. Though treated unjustly, they did not resist
B. NOT RESISTING IS CONSISTENT WITH THE TEACHING OF CHRIST AND HIS APOSTLES
1. Consider Luke 6:27-30
2. Also Romans 12:19-21
3. And 1 Peter 2:18-23
C. ADMITTEDLY, NOT RESISTING IS CONTRARY TO HUMAN NATURE AND WISDOM
1. Human nature moves one to react in “justifiable anger”
2. Human wisdom calls for “standing up for one’s rights”
D. BUT NOT RESISTING IS BASED UPON TWO THINGS
1. AN AWARENESS that the Lord is coming to judge – James 5:8-9
a. But it may also refer to the Lord’s final coming on the Day of Judgment which has yet to occur
b. Likewise, we can look for the coming of the Lord in judgment at our death
2. A WILLINGNESS to let Him be our avenger – Luke 18:7-8
II. BE PATIENT
A. THE WORD FOUND HERE IS SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT THAN THAT FOUND EARLIER IN THIS EPISTLE
1. In James 1:3, the word is “hupomone“
a. Which means to bear up under trials
b. Which normally means to be patient in reference to THINGS or CIRCUMSTANCES
2. In James 5:7-8, 10, the word is “makrothumia“
a. Which means to suffer long
b. Which normally means to be patient in reference to PEOPLE
B. THREE EXAMPLES ARE GIVEN TO ENCOURAGE US TO BE PATIENT
1. The FARMER – James 5:7
2. The PROPHETS – James 5:10
3. JOB – James 5:11
C. EACH OF THESE EXAMPLES TEACHES US:
1. To place our trust in the Lord, that He will eventually reward us for our trust in Him
2. To be steadfast, in the meantime, in our service to Him
III. ESTABLISH YOUR HEARTS
A. THE WORD “ESTABLISH”
1. Means “to fix, make fast, to set” – James 5:8
2. Is translated “strengthen” in other places
3. To establish one’s heart, then
a. Involves strengthening our heart in a certain way
b. Here, it means to strengthen our heart so as to be patient and not resist the evil being done
B. THE “KEY” TO ESTABLISHING OUR HEARTS
1. Is the Word of God – 2 Peter 1:12
2. Through constant and careful study of God’s Word
a. Our faith in God and His eventual justice is made stronger
b. Patience and strength to not resist is developed – Romans 15:4
IV. DON’T GRUMBLE
A. ESPECIALLY AGAINST ONE ANOTHER (9)
1. When others oppress us, we are likely to vent our frustrations as those closest and dearest to us
2. For example, a man after a bad day at work often takes it out on his wife and family
3. So brethren are likely to direct their frustration towards each other when being oppressed from outside
B. WE HAVE GOOD REASON NOT TO GRUMBLE
1. “lest you be condemned”
2. The sin of grumbling is a serious one – 1 Corinthians 10:5-11
3. The same Lord who will judge those who oppress others will judge those who murmer and grumble!
V. DON’T SWEAR
A. THIS IS SOMETHING ELSE ONE IS LIKELY TO DO WHEN IN TROUBLE
1. In other words, make rash promises
2. Promises which God will hold you to, even if not serious – Ecclesiastes 5:1-7
B. THIS PROHIBITION APPLIES ESPECIALLY TO “FLIPPANT OATHS”
1. In Jesus’ day, many Jews were prone to swear in this fashion
2. Where they made a distinction between oaths using God’s name and other oaths (Those using His name were considered binding, while the others were not)
3. Both Jesus and James condemn this distinction between different kinds of oaths – Matthew 5:33-37; 23:16-22
VI. PRAY
A. THIS IS THE KEY THING TO DO WHEN OPPRESSED
1. As we learn from James 5:13
2. This is what the Christians of James’ day were doing – James 5:4
B. WHEN WE PRAY, GOD HEARS!
1. As seen in James 5:4
2. As promised by both Jesus and James, the Lord will avenge His righteous ones – Luke 18:7-8; James 5:7-8
3. It may not come when we want it, and the Lord may “bear long with us” – Revelation 6:9-11
4. But when the time is ripe, the oppressed will be avenged!
Conclusion
1. Therefore, when we are being oppressed
a. Don’t resist
b. Be patient
c. Establish your hearts
d. Don’t grumble
e. Don’t swear
f. PRAY!
2. When we react this way to oppression
a. We follow the example of Christ and the early disciples
b. Who committed themselves to God who judges righteously
1) Christ – 1 Peter 2:23
2) The disciples – 1 Peter 4:19
3. With such a righteous God on our side, it should be a lot easier to endure those who oppress us!
4. Is the righteous God on your side? Or rather, are you on His side?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 05:01-06 Why Does God Get Angry at the Rich? audio
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Text: James 5:1-6
Introduction
1. Compared to many people in the world, we are indeed blessed; in fact, in comparison with most people who live now and who have lived in the past, we are VERY RICH!
2. Now, it is important to stress that God does not condemn the rich for being rich
a. Some of the godliest people in the Bible were rich
b. For example, Job, Abraham, Joseph, David, Solomon, Barnabas, Philemon, Lydia
3. However, Christ does speak of the difficulty of the rich being saved – Matthew 19:23-26
4. And there are times when God is very angry at the rich, as in our text:
5. As we consider this passage more carefully, we shall do so by trying to answer four questions:
a. Who is James addressing in this passage?
b. What is in store for these rich people?
c. Why is God so angry at them?
d. What applications can we draw from this passage?
Body
I. WHO IS JAMES ADDRESSING IN THIS PASSAGE?
A. ARE THEY CHRISTIANS?
1. Are these rich Christians who had been guilty of oppressing their brethren?
2. Possibly, but unlikely for several reasons
a. They are not addressed as “brethren” as is often done in this epistle – James 1:2, 19; 2:1, 14; 3:1, 10; 4:11
b. There is no call to repentance in this passage
1) As there is throughout this epistle in those passages in which it is clear brethren are being addressed
2) Here there is only condemnation!
c. The brethren are not addressed until James 5:7, in which THEY are told to be patient in light of what has just been said
B. MORE LIKELY, THOSE ADDRESSED ARE RICH UNBELIEVERS
1. Who had been oppressing the Christians – James 2:6
2. This tirade of judgment upon them appears to serve the purpose of comforting the brethren who were being oppressed by them – James 5:7
a. The Lord has heard their cries – James 5:4b
b. Judgment is coming upon these rich oppressors
c. Therefore the Christians are told to be patient
II. WHAT IS IN STORE FOR THESE RICH OPPRESSORS?
A. MISERIES THAT WILL CAUSE THEM TO “WEEP AND HOWL”! – James 5:3a
1. So certain are these miseries to come, that James speaks of them already occuring!
a. Riches are corrupted
b. Garments are moth-eaten
c. Gold and silver are corroded
2. When this “corrosion” of their riches occurs
a. It will serve as a witness against them
b. It will eat their flesh like fire
1) The anguish and misery of poverty usually affects the hardest those who were once rich!
2) Thus, when poverty strikes, it will make them “weep and howl” as though they were on fire!
B. THE MISERIES SPOKEN HERE MAY HAVE REFERENCE TO WHAT LATER OCCURRED IN THE DESTRUCTION OF JERUSALEM IN 70 A.D.
1. Not long after this epistle was written Jerusalem was destroyed by the Romans
2. Many of the rich Jews who had oppressed their Christian brethren literally “weeped and howled”
3. What they had failed to realize was that they had heaped up treasure “in the last days” – James 5:3b
a. Like the man in the parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16-21), they thought they were laying up riches for their latter days
b. When in fact, it was the “last days” of the Jewish economy when they were so busy storing up wealth!
c. Like some today, who store up for retirement and then die before they retire!
III. WHY IS GOD SO ANGRY AT THESE RICH PEOPLE?
A. BECAUSE OF HOW THEY USED THEIR WEALTH
1. They hoarded their wealth – James 5:3b
2. They spent it on themselves with pleasures and luxury – James 5:5
3. They used the power that comes with wealth to oppress “the just” – James 5:6
a. Possibly a reference to Christ
b. Or the Christian whom they also oppressed
B. BECAUSE OF HOW THEY GOT THEIR WEALTH
1. It was through wicked means – James 5:4
2. Specifically, by withholding wages from those who had worked for them
3. Just as some people today get rich through dishonest schemes or unjust labor practices!
IV. WHAT APPLICATIONS CAN WE DRAW?
A. WE NEED TO BE CAREFUL HOW WE USE OUR WEALTH
1. To spend it on luxurious living when others are suffering
a. Is exactly what James has described in this passage
b. Is an indication of the lack of the love of God – 1 John 3:17
2. According to the New Testament, the purpose of working is not to obtain wealth for our own gratification, but to help those less fortunate!
a. As commanded by Paul – Ephesians 4:28; 1 Timothy 6:17-19
b. As exemplified by Paul – Acts 20:34-35
B. WE NEED TO BE CAREFUL HOW WE OBTAIN OUR WEALTH
1. To do so at the expense of others will bring God’s wrath upon us! – Deuteronomy 24:14-15
2. It is wrong to think that success can only come by stepping on others
3. This might be an appropriate place to add what we learn from Paul in 1 Timothy 6:9-10
a. It is not riches that are wrong, but the DESIRE TO BE RICH that is wrought with many dangers!
b. Riches are not wrong if they are the BY-PRODUCT of our endeavors, not the GOAL of those endeavors!
1) For example, one may desire to be a doctor to help the sick, or a plumber because of one’s skill or interest in such matters, and receive riches as a by-product because of the value society might place on such services
2) But to enter such professions solely because one’s goal is to get rich thereby, then we are ensnared by the love of money!
4. So how do we obtain our wealth?
a. If we do it honestly and in compensation for a job well done, then God is pleased
b. But if we do it by hurting others and by making wealth our primary object, then we are in danger of God’s wrath!
Conclusion
1. Living in the country and society in which we do, we have much for which to be thankful
2. But we also have much of which we need to beware:
a. We live in a society where it is quite possible to become wealthy
b. We live in a society where covetousness or the desire to be rich are not considered sins
c. We live in a society where heaping up treasures for our own gratification is considered an inalienable right!
d. It is easy to be influenced by these values!
3. Perhaps we need to ask ourselves constantly: Are we laying up treasure in heaven, or on earth?
a. Those who lay up treasure in heaven are those who use their wealth to do good and help the poor and less fortunate – Matthew 19:21; 1 Timothy 6:18-19
b. Those who lay up treasure on earth are actually storing up for themselves miseries and wrath!
1) Miseries…when their wealth fails them in their time of true need
2) Wrath…from God in the Day of wrath that is yet to come
4. These are sobering thoughts worthy of our careful consideration…Have you even begun to lay up treasure in heaven by obeying the gospel of Christ?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 04:13-17 How Do You Make Plans? – audio
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Text: James 4:13-17
Introduction
1. In the text for this study, James discusses the subject of making plans:
2. This subject is very relevant for us today, for we all make plans of one sort or another
a. Plans for college, jobs
b. Plans for marriage, family
c. Plans for vacation, retirement
3. Making a plan, in and of itself, is not wrong
a. Paul often made plans in regard to his travels – Acts 18:20-21; 1 Corinthians 16:5-9
b. In fact, making plans (Or setting goals) is a key to success in any venture we may undertake in life
4. But there is a right way to plan, and a wrong way; and James discusses both!
Body
I. WE CAN SUBMIT TO GOD’S WILL
A. IN OTHER WORDS SUBMIT OUR PLANS TO THE WILL OF GOD
1. We can make our plans, but we should make them contingent to God’s approval – James 4:15
2. This is what Paul did
a. God willing – Acts 18:21
b. if the Lord permits – 1 Corinthians 16:7
3. Saying if the Lord wills assumes our faith in two things:
a. That God does have a will for us (Even in mundane matters)
b. That God can intervene (Via providence) to carry out His will
4. The wisdom of making our plans contingent upon the will of God will become evident later, when we consider the wrong way to plan
B. FOR OUR PLANS TO SUCCEED, SEEK FIRST TO DISCERN GOD’S WILL, AND PLAN ACCORDINGLY
1. To a great degree, this is possible, for God wants us to:
a. Understand His Will – Ephesians 5:17
b. Be filled with the knowledge of His Will – Colossians 1:9
2. Of course, this relates especially to His revealed will
a. Which pertains to matters right and wrong
b. Which is found in the pages of the Bible
c. When we know God’s revealed will, then we can act or plan accordingly
d. Until then, the right way to plan is to show our submission to God by leaving our plans subject to His will
3. There is also God’s permissive will
a. Which pertains to matters not right or wrong, but good and better
b. Even so, we should still show our trust and dependence upon God in such matters by committing our plans to His Will
II. WE CAN IGNORE GOD’S WILL
A. TO PLAN THIS WAY IS FOLLY – James 4:13-15
1. Because life is COMPLEX – James 4:13
a. There are the complexities of TIME (Today, tomorrow, when?)
b. There are the complexities of ACTIVITIES (Buy, sell?)
c. So many decisions to make, so many mistakes might be made
d. If it’s possible to know God’s will on any matter, that would increase the likelihood that our decisions and plans will be correct
2. Because life is UNCERTAIN – James 4:14a
a. No one has a guarantee of tomorrow
1) Whether there will even be one
2) Or what will happen
b. Only God can bring about what He wills for the future without fail
c. Since this is true, we should certainly desire to make plans that are in keeping with His plans!
3. Because life is FRAIL – James 4:14b
a. It is like a vapor – Psalms 39:5-6, 11
b. How substantial is a vapor or shadow?
c. How quickly we can succumb to sickness or an accident illustrates how frail we really are
d. It is foolish, then, to think we have the strength within ourselves to make our plans happen – James 1:10-11
4. Because life is BRIEF – James 4:14c
a. appears for a little time
b. This is something Job observed – Job 9:25-26; 14:1
c. Since life is so short, it is important that we do God’s will and not our own – 1 John 2:17
B. TO PLAN THIS WAY IS BOASTFUL ARROGANCE – James 4:16a
1. To plan without taking into consideration God’s will is to set ourselves up above God Himself!
2. How could one be more arrogant than that?
C. TO PLAN THIS WAY IS SIN – James 4:16-17
1. It is sin because it involves arrogance and boasting which is evil – James 4:16
2. It is sin because we who are Christians know better – James 4:17
a. We know what is good: to plan with God’s will in mind
b. To do otherwise is sin!
Conclusion
1. How do we make our plans?
a. If we plan without considering the will of God, then we are foolish, arrogant, and sinful!
b. If we make our plans subject to the approval of God, then we are wise, submissive, and righteous in God’s sight!
c. If we endeavor to plan as much as we can within the framework of God’s revealed will, then we increase the likelihood of success!
2. What about your plans for eternity?
a. There is no doubt what the Lord’s will is on this subject – Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38; Romans 10:9-10; 2 Peter 1:5-11; Revelation 2:10
b. We can be certain of success if we submit to God’s will in the matters of faith, repentance, confession, baptism, and living a faithful Christian life
c. But to ignore it is folly in view of life’s UNCERTAINTY, FRAILTY, and BREVITY!
3. Have you done as the Lord wills?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 04:01-12 How to End Wars – audio
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Text: James 4:1-12
Introduction
1. Have you ever heard of:
b. The War of the Oaken Bucket?
d. These were actual wars fought between nations, and you can read about them in many history books
2. War is too often a fact of life in spite of treaties, world peace organizations, and even the threat of nuclear weapons
a. Not only wars between nations
b. But there are wars of one kind or another on almost every level of life – even gas wars between gas stations!
3. In our text, we find James discussing this important theme of War
a. He describes three types of wars going on in the world
b. He also tells how these wars can be stopped
Body
I. WAR WITH EACH OTHER – James 4:1, 11-12
A. EVEN AMONG CHRISTIANS! – James 4:1
1. Surely brethren ought to live together in love and harmony – Psalms 133:1
2. Yet often they do not
a. Lot quarreled with Abraham
b. Absalom created a war with his father David
c. The disciples of Jesus argued over who would be greatest
d. Paul and Barnabas had great contention over John Mark
3. Even churches in the New Testament often had problems
a. At Corinth
1) Brethren were suing each other
2) They were competing in the public assemblies
b. In Galatia – brethren were biting and devouring one another
c. Even at Philippi – two women were having trouble getting along with each other
B. IN HIS EPISTLE, JAMES IMPLIES SEVERAL DIFFERENT KINDS OF POTENTIAL CONFLICTS AMONG BRETHREN:
1. Class wars – James 2:1-9
2. Economic wars – James 5:1-6
3. Church fights – James 1:19-20; 3:13-18
4. Personal wars
a. Notice James 4:11-12
b. Where we are admonished not to speak evil of one another, nor to judge one another
II. WAR WITHIN OURSELVES – James 4:1-3
A. THIS IS THE REASON WE WAR WITH ONE ANOTHER! – James 4:1
1. It is the war in the heart that causes the wars in the church and elsewhere!
2. Our desire for things to satisfy our pleasures (Like power, possessions, etc.) is what makes us fight with others
3. Putting it simply, the key problem is SELFISHNESS
B. SUCH SELFISH DESIRES LEAD TO:
1. Wrong Actions – James 4:2
a. you murder and covet…you fight and war
b. Perhaps not literally, but certainly so in God’s sight – 1John 3:15
2. Wrong Praying -James 4:3
a. The kind of praying that goes unanswered
b. Because the prayers are for selfish motives
III. WAR WITH GOD – James 4:4-10
A. HERE IS THE ROOT CAUSE OF EVERY WAR, INTERNAL OR EXTERNAL
1. Rebellion against God!
2. In some way:
a. …those at war with others…
b. …are also at war within themselves…
c. …because they are first at war with God!
B. HOW DOES A BELIEVER DECLARE WAR AGAINST GOD?
1. By being friendly with God’s enemies!
2. James mentions three enemies we must not be friends with if we want to be at peace with God:
a. The World – James 4:4
1) That is, human society that is contrary to God
a) Any conduct, belief, thought…
b) …which is anti-God, anti-Christ
2) To be a friend of such…
a) Makes one an enemy of God!
b) Makes one a spiritual adulterer or adulteress!
b. The Flesh – James 4:1,5
1) The unlawful desires that would lead us away from God
2) These desires wage war within us, but we must not give in to them – 1Peter 2:11
3) Such desires are in direct conflict to what the Spirit of God would have us to be and do – James 4:5; Galatians 5:16-26
4) To submit to these unlawful desires (Works) of the flesh sets one contrary to God and His Spirit!
c. The Devil – James 4:6-7
1) Pride is Satan’s greatest temptation
2) When we give into pride, we become friends of the devil and enemies of God – James 4:6
C. HOW TO ENJOY PEACE WITH GOD
1. Submit To God – James 4:7
a. Literally, get into your proper rank
b. When a buck private acts like the general, there is going to be trouble!
c. Unconditional surrender to God is the only way to victory!
d. Submission is saying: Not my will, but Thine be done
2. Resist The Devil – James 4:7
a. He is behind every war that we have
b. But if we just resist, then he will flee!
3. Draw Near To God – James 4:8
a. And He will draw near to us!
b. How do we do this?
1) Cleanse your hands – Get your sins forgiven!
2) Purify your hearts – Be single-minded in your devotion to God! (Not double-minded, like a spiritual adulterer)
4. Humble Yourselves In The Sight Of God – James 4:9-10
a. It’s possible to submit outwardly and not be humble inwardly
b. True mourning for our sins is how we can humble ourselves before God – James 4:9
c. The end result of such humility? God will lift you up – James 4:10
Conclusion
1. If we obey these four instructions, then God will draw near to us, cleanse us, and forgive us!
2. ONLY THEN WILL THE WARS CEASE!
a. For we will not be at war with God
b. So we will not be at war within ourselves
c. And we will not be at war with others!
3. As Solomon wrote in the Book of Proverbs: When a man’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. – Proverbs 16:7
4. Are we making sure our ways are pleasing to the Lord?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 03:13-18 Wisdom: Heavenly vs. Earthly – audio
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Text: James 3:13-18
Introduction
1. In the book of Proverbs, we are encouraged to seek after wisdom – Proverbs 3:13-18; 4:7-9
2. Likewise, in the New Testament we are exhorted to walk with wisdom – Ephesians 5:15-17
3. But in James 3:13-18, we learn that there is more than just one kind of wisdom
4. In this lesson, we will take a look at what James describes as two different kinds of wisdom: heavenly wisdom vs. earthly wisdom
Body
I. A CONTRAST IN THEIR ORIGIN
A. EARTHLY WISDOM IS NOT FROM ABOVE
1. It is EARTHLY
a. It is worldly
b. Wisdom that is according to the world’s standards
c. But this wisdom is foolishness to God – 1 Corinthians 1:20
2. It is SENSUAL
a. Appealing to the senses, the emotions, the passions
b. Wisdom according to what FEELS right (But that doesn’t make it right)
3. It is DEMONIC
a. The kind of wisdom possessed by the devil and his angels
b. A wisdom that often finds its origin in the influences of Satan!
B. HEAVENLY WISDOM IS FROM ABOVE
1. It Comes from GOD – James 3:17
2. It Comes via PRAYER – James 1:5-8
II. A CONTRAST IN THEIR NATURE
A. EARTHLY WISDOM
1. Full of BITTER ENVY
2. Possessing SELF-SEEKING IN THE HEART
3. This wisdom extols as virtues such qualities as:
a. Power
b. Position
c. Privilege
d. Prestige
4. It was this kind of wisdom
a. That prompted Satan and his angels to rebel against God
b. That prompted the disciples to argue over who would be the greatest in the kingdom
B. HEAVENLY WISDOM
1. It is first PURE – James 3:17
a. Above all else, it is true to God’s Will
b. Not one to compromise truth for the sake of peace
2. Then it is PEACEABLE
a. Holding firm to the truth, it makes every effort to be at peace – Romans 12:18
b. For example, speaking the truth in an attitude of love – Ephesians 4:15
3. GENTLE
a. That is, kind in one’s dealings with others
b. Not harsh, even when right and dealing with those who differ – 2 Timothy 2:24-25
4. WILLING TO YIELD
a. Not in matters of truth
b. But in matters of opinion – Romans 14:1
c. In matters of liberty – Romans 14:19-21
5. FULL OF MERCY
a. Quick to forgive the offenses of others
b. Wisely understanding one’s own need of mercy – James 2:13
6. Producing GOOD FRUITS
a. Notice James 3:13, where it says we are to show by our conduct our true wisdom and understanding
b. This wisdom takes one beyond being a HEARER to being a DOER – James 1:22
c. Understanding that faith without works is dead – James 2:26
7. WITHOUT PARTIALITY
a. Showing no respect of persons – James 2:1-13
b. Rather, treating all fairly, on the same basis
8. WITHOUT HYPOCRISY
a. Indicating that all of the above is not an act, a show
b. But that it comes from a heart desiring to please God, not man
III. A CONTRAST IN THEIR FRUITS
A. EARTHLY WISDOM
1. Causes CONFUSION
2. And EVERY EVIL THING
3. Makes you wonder what kind of wisdom
a. Is behind denominationalism
b. Is often manifested in politics
B. HEAVENLY WISDOM – James 3:18
1. Produces PEACE, instead of confusion
2. Bears the fruit of RIGHTEOUSNESS, instead of every evil thing
Conclusion
1. Certainly when we compare their ORIGIN, NATURE and FRUITS, the wisdom to be preferred is HEAVENLY WISDOM
2. What kind of wisdom do we have?
a. Those who have EARTHLY WISDOM boast of theirs
b. While those who have HEAVENLY WISDOM show theirs by their good conduct done in meekness
3. What kind of wisdom do we want?
a. If EARTHLY, then no effort is necessary
1) Just do what the world tells you
2) Just do what feels right
b. But if HEAVENLY, then we must be diligent
1) To seek such wisdom from God
2) To demonstrate such wisdom by our conduct
4. What kind of wisdom do you have in regards to the gospel of Christ?
a. EARTHLY WISDOM makes no response to the gospel, or if any, only that which is convenient
b. HEAVENLY WISDOM receives the commands of the gospel joyfully and obediently – Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38
5. Have you demonstrated HEAVENLY WISDOM?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 01:12-15 Endure Temptation to Obtain a Crown of Life
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Text: James 1:12-15
Introduction
- A temptation is a trial or test which may involve a struggle, hardships, and difficulties with a beneficial purpose and effect – Hebrews 11:17-19. If we endure through the many temptations that will come to them that love God, we will receive a great reward of God – James 1:12.
- The mark of a true servant of God is when God has enough confidence in you, to ask the devil to consider you to try/tempt, to see how much you really love God. The mature Christian will be able to endure and come out of the fire of temptation as pure gold – Job 1:1,8.
- Satan will present many trials, test, and temptations to the Christian trying to break down his faith and loyalty to God, so that he will lose his eternal reward of heaven. Christian friend don’t let anything separate from God – Romans 8:35-39. You must be watchful because the devil will come through the front door, back door, the window, friends, family, relationships, or at any of your weakness – 1 Peter 5:6-9.
To Endure Temptation You Must Learn to Trust God
- It is a joy for Christians to have the opportunity to suffer reproach by our adversary – James 1:2-4. Temptations will help us grow stronger in God’s love, so that we might be able to lay hold of that beautiful eternal home God has promised us. Did not Peter grow from his adversity of denying Christ 3 times (Matthew 26:31-35, 69-75). Let fight the fight, and finish the race God has set before ud that we might obtain the crown of righteousness – 2 Timothy 4:7-8.
- It is imperative to learn to trust and rely on God’s Word for your guidance and direction in life because following your flesh and your own desires will lead you to your own destruction – Proverbs 3:5-8.
- To endure temptations you must be rooted and grounded in the Word of God. It will be more difficult for Satan to overcome you, if you always reply with “What Thus Saith The Lord?” – James 4:7. Any situation that you find yourself in, you should be able to apply and implement what God has said in your life – Colossians 3:16. Unfortunately the problem with many is that they’re not rooted and grounded in the truth of God – Colossians 2:6-8.
Don’t Allow Your Own Lusts to Draw You Away from God
- The Word of God teaches that you’re tempted, when you’re drawn away from what God says in His Holy Word, to fulfill what your own lusts and fleshly desires want. When your own fleshly desires [entice or allure] override or dominate what God says, you will commit sin which will lead to death – James 1:14-15.
- To overcome and endure trails, we need to be aware of our own lusts and weaknesses, and be willing to do something about it. This means we need to get rid of sins that will destroy us – Hebrews 12:1-2. It’s time you turn off the sources of your enticement to sin – Mark 9:43-48.
- If your working towards becoming mature in Christ, why not make the decision this evening to devote your life to Jesus – Revelation 2:10.
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
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James 03:01-18 Is Your Tongue Under Control?
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Text: James 3:1-18
Introduction
- The tongue can be used to destroy the mind. But when used wisely it can encourage, uplift, and motivate a soul to obey the gospel of Christ.
- The Word teaches in many things we offend by words, therefore, it’s important to learn how to bridle, tame, or control the tongue – James 3:2-5. The speech that comes from ours mouths will either justify you or condemn you – Matthew 12:36-37; Matthew 15:16-20.
- Some lose control of their tongue by using deception & dishonesty to their advantage, but God clearly forbids us to lie or bear false witness – Proverbs 6:16-19; Proverbs 19:5, 9; Revelation 21:8.
Make Sure Your Tongue Is Not Destructive
- An uncontrolled tongue is like a fire out of control, it destroys everything in sight. It’s like a flame thrower that burns everything in sight. Is your tongue like this? In James 3:6-8, the Bible teaches the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity that defiles the whole body. The untamed tongue is full of deadly poison, so let us learn to refrain ourselves from evil words – 1 Peter 3:10-11.
- Is it not unnatural for a fruit tree to produce ripe and rotten fruits at the same time? This is hypocritical behavior, and is not consistent with keeping God’s commandments – James 3:9-13.
- If there is bitterness, envying, in your speech & life don’t deceive yourselves into believing everything is alright, while there is confusion & evil working in your life Recognize God’s pure wisdom & receive peace – James 3:14-18.
Your Controlled Tongue Can Edify and Encourage
- The Bible teaches us to use our speech and communication to express truthfulness and righteousness instead of evil – Matthew 5:37; Colossians 4:6. Our conversations and interactions should convey the love of God, and the truth of His Son Jesus Christ – Ephesians 4:15, 25, 29
- The Bible teaches that it is wise to have a quiet spirit and work with your own hands that you might have a good report of them that are without – 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12
- When your tongue is under control, your speech and behavior can communicate the good news that Jesus Christ has tasted death for every man through His sacrifice & resurrection – Titus 2:6-8; James 1:26-27
Salvation: Hear - Believe - Repent - Confess - Be Baptized - Live Faithfully
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James 03:01-12 Let Not Many Become Teachers – audio
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Text: James 3:1-12
Introduction
1. In our study of “The Epistle Of James”, we now come to the third chapter
2. In James 3:1-12, we find:
a. A WARNING against too many becoming teachers – James 3:1-2
b. A DISCUSION of the untamable tongue – James 3:3-12
3. In a time where “verbal abuse” is often epidemic, and where “self- proclaimed teachers” engage in all sorts of heated religious discussions, there is much we can learn from this passage
Body
I. THE “WARNING” (James 3:1-2)
A. “LET NOT MANY OF YOU BECOME TEACHERS”
1. Note carefully:
a. James does not say, “Let not many of you BE teachers”
b. But rather, “Let not many of you BECOME teachers”
2. This passage is not just a rebuke of those who try to BE teachers before they are ready, but a warning that many should not ever BECOME teachers in the future!
3. It is a mistake to believe that EVERYONE should become a teacher at some point in their service to Christ!
a. Paul illustrated time and again that the body of Christ has many members, and not all members do not have the same function!
1) To the saints at Rome – Romans 12:3-8
2) To the church at Corinth – 1 Corinthians 12:12-31 (Note esp. verse 29, where Paul with a rhetorical question implies that not all are to be teachers)
b. Peter likewise taught that God’s grace toward is “manifold” and that we should exercise our respective abilities accordingly – 1 Peter 4:10-11
4. In view of what Paul, Peter, and James wrote, we should be careful before we apply Hebrews 5:12-14 to mean that EVERYONE should one day be teachers (The author of Hebrews may have been writing to a select audience, whom he knew ought to have been teachers)
B. WHY MANY SHOULD NOT BECOME TEACHERS
1. Teachers shall receive “a stricter judgment”
a. There is a grave responsibility involved in teaching others
b. We can lead people to TRUTH – but we just as easily lead them to ERROR!
c. Just as with elders (Hebrews 13:17), those who teach will be held accountable if they mislead others!
2. Because we all “stumble in many things” – James 3:2
a. Everyone has faults, and with many people the improper use of the tongue is a major one
b. But it takes spiritual maturity (“a perfect man”) not to stumble in word!
II. THE “DISCOURSE” ON THE UNTAMABLE TONGUE (James 3:3-12)
A. THE ILLUSTRATIONS OF THE BIT AND RUDDER (James 3:3-4)
1. Both illustrations are used to demonstrate that a small member (Like the tongue) can control the body
a. A bit controls a horse – James 3:3
b. A rudder controls the ship – James 3:4
2. So our tongue controls the body
a. If you speak a lie, it won’t be long before you find yourself living a lie
b. If you speak suggestively in an immoral manner, it won’t be long before you begin acting immorally!
3. The power of the tongue to direct is easily applied to the dangers of teaching
a. The teacher’s speech can easily set the mood of the class or congregation
b. He can easily direct the congregation in an uplifting way, or just as easily direct the congregation in a discouraging way
4. Should not this power to direct via the tongue humble those who teach, and caution the spiritually immature?
B. THE ILLUSTRATION OF A LITTLE FIRE (James 3:5-6)
1. A small fire can easily cause great destruction (Remember the Great Chicago Fire?)
2. So it is with the tongue!
a. A loose tongue can ruin one’s reputation
b. It can also destroy churches, families, friendships
3. In describing an uncontrolled tongue, James uses very vivid terms to make his point: The tongue is:
a. A fire
b. A world of iniquity
c. So set among our bodies that it defiles the whole body
d. That which sets on fire the course of nature
e. That which is itself set on fire by hell!
4. Should not this power to destroy and defile both ourselves and others caution us in becoming teachers?
C. THE DIFFICULTY OF TAMING THE TONGUE (James 3:7-12)
1. Despite being able to tame wild animals, man is unable to tame the tongue!
a. It is an unruly evil!
b. It is full of deadly poison!
2. I understand James to be somewhat hyperbolic here for the sake of emphasis
a. It is true that no MAN (By himself) can tame the tongue
b. But with GOD’S help, we can tame it (As David prayed in Psalm 141:3)
c. And with GOD’S help, we MUST tame it – Ephesians 4:29-30; Colossians 4:6
3. As a further example of how difficult it is to tame the tongue, James uses a very common (And relevant) problem
a. Blessing God and cursing men – James 3:9
b. Something we are very likely to do, especially on Sundays
1) We spend time in worship, blessing God
2) But in driving home, we might curse men (Other drivers who pull out in front of us)
c. Racists and bigots are often guilty of “blessing God and cursing men”!
4. But with the illustrations of a spring, a fig tree and a grapevine, James shows the inconsistency of this!
a. What comes forth is a true indication of what is inside
b. Just as Jesus taught in Mark 7:20-23
c. Despite all the praises we offer God, it is the curses against man that reveals the true person inside!
Conclusion
1. Again, these examples of the misuse of the tongue should humble and caution all those who would become teachers
2. But they should also serve as a warning for us all, whether we teach or not, that we need to seek God’s help in controlling the tongue!
3. May David’s prayer be our own: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer – Psalms 19:14
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 03:07-10 Adult Language – audio
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Text: James 3:7-10
Introduction
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Recently, purely by coincidence, we have heard several sermons on the uses of the tongue.
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We’ve talked about:
- Gossip.
- Confession.
- And blasphemy.
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We need to be exceedingly careful with how and what we say.
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One way that we can permanently damage our influence on others is to speak in a way not befitting Christ.
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Today, let’s study together about the topic of profanity.
Body
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A DEFINITION.
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Profanity – Blasphemous or obscene language.
- Blasphemous – hurtful speech.
- Obscene – offensive or disgusting by accepted standards of morality and decency.
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Profane – A person or behavior that is irreverent. To treat with irreverence or disrespect.
- Irreverent – Showing a lack of respect for people or things that are generally taken seriously.
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Profanity proceeds from a profane person.
- As Christians we are to be reverent (Show proper respect) to God and His word.
- A Christian who continually uses profanity (Which is in contradiction to God’s word), is thus showing a lack of respect for things which God takes seriously.
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PROFANITY AND THE BIBLE.
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Why doesn’t the Bible give us a list of bad words?
- Some feel that the only type of language that is forbidden is language that profanes God’s name.
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The Bible does not give a detailed list of words that are considered profanity. Why?
- Words come and go. Some words are curse words today which were not curse words many years ago. There are some words in the KJV that are considered profanity today.
- This hypothetical list would need to be updated about every decade.
- To give a list of words, the Bible would have to give the list in every spoken language in the world.
- If we are honest, we know which words are curse words.
- Even though the Bible doesn’t give us a precise list, it does give us definite principles to use.
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Filthy language.
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Ephesians 5:4. Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.
- “Filthiness” – obscenity. Filthy talking.
- This is talking about language that is offensive, disgusting, and irreverent.
- Colossians 3:8. But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth.
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Lewd language. 2 Peter 2:18. For when they speak great swelling words of emptiness, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through lewdness, the ones who have actually escaped from those who live in error.
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Corrupt language. Ephesians 4:29. Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.
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An important note:
- One need not use “cuss words” in order for their language to be classified as filthy.
- It is completely possible for our language to be profane without using one single word that we consider to be a “cuss word.”
- We must be careful about the content of what we say as well as the word choice. Both are important.
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PROFANING GOD’S NAME.
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Another type of profanity (Blasphemous language) is profaning the name of God.
- Remember, to profane something is to treat it with irreverence or disrespect.
- It is to take that which is holy and use it in a worldly way.
- The phrase, “Oh my God!” / “God!” / “Jesus Christ!” is using God’s name in such a way.
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God has always demanded respect for His name.
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Exodus 20:7. You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain, for the LORD will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain.
- Vain – when used as an adverb (Which it is here), it means false.
- Therefore, this is referring to using God’s name in a falsehood. “Swearing to God.”
- Using God’s name in this way is irreverent.
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Leviticus 18:21. And you shall not let any of your descendants pass through the fire to Molech, nor shall you profane the name of your God: I am the LORD.
- By associating God’s name with pagan worship, one was profaning His name.
- To use God’s name in any irreverent way is to profane it.
- Jews so respected the name of God that would not write it with a freshly dipped pen, lest it might smear.
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EUPHEMISMS AND ABBREVIATION.
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Euphemism – A mild or indirect word or expression substituted for one considered to be too harsh.
- Sometimes, we want to curse but rather than use the actual word, we use a substitute instead.
- These words mean the same thing as the curse word.
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Examples:
- Darn – means to mend. Also a euphemism for a curse word.
- Shoot – cause a gun to fire. Also a euphemism.
- Gosh – euphemism for “God.”
- Freaking – a person might say, “This is freaking me out!” to point out that something is making them uncomfortable. However, when you use this word as an adjective, it is a euphemism.
- There are many other words we could add to the list.
- Brethren, we need to be careful about what we say.
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Abbreviations.
- In our world of texting, abbreviations (Letters substituted for phrases) have become popular.
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Many are harmless.
- LOL. Laugh out loud.
- ROFL. Rolls on floor laughing.
- However, some abbreviations are abbreviations for curse words or phrases.
- OMG. Means “Oh my God!” As we have discussed, this is using God’s name in an irreverent way. Even though you have not said or written God’s name, you have used it in an irreverent way.
- There are many abbreviations that are used that stand for profane words or ideas.
- Typing an abbreviation is just as bad as saying it out loud or typing out the entire word.
- Brethren, we need to be careful about what we type! Typing is communicating!
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Conclusion
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The title of this sermon is “Adult Language.”
- This is a phrase we often see when we are looking at movie or T.V. show ratings.
- It means that profanity is spoken in the show.
- Let me suggest to you that profanity is not “Adult” language.
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Adult language is described in:
- Colossians 4:6. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.
- Ephesians 4:29. Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.
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James 3:7-10.
For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so.
Content by Ralph Price
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James 02:14-26 Three Kinds of Faith – audio
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Text: James 2:14-26
Introduction
1. Faith is certainly an essential element in the Christian life:
a. Without faith, it is impossible to please God – Hebrews 11:6
b. The Christian is saved by faith – Ephesians 2:8
c. The Christian is to walk (Live) by faith – 2 Corinthians 5:7
d. Whatever we do apart from faith is described as sin – Romans 14:23
2. It is important to realize, however, that there are different kinds of faith, but only one that is truly “saving faith”
3. In James 2:14-26, we find James discussing the different kinds of faith, with an emphasis upon that faith which works to the saving of the soul
Body
I. DEAD FAITH (James 2:14-17)
A. THIS KIND OF FAITH
1. Substitutes words for deeds (Consider James’ example)
a. People with this kind of faith:
1) Know the correct vocabulary for prayer and sound doctrine
2) Can even quote the right verses from the Bible
b. But their “walk” does not measure up to their “talk”!
2. Is only an INTELLECTUAL faith
a. In one’s mind, he or she knows the doctrine of salvation
b. But they have never really submitted themselves to God and trusted in Jesus for salvation
c. They know the right “words”, but they do not back up their words with their “works”!
B. CAN THIS KIND OF FAITH SAVE?
1. NO! Three times in this passage, James emphasizes that “faith without works is dead” – James 2:17, 20, 26
2. Any declaration of faith that does not result in a changed life and good works is a false declaration: A DEAD FAITH!
3. Dead faith is counterfeit faith and lulls the person into a false confidence of eternal life
C. DO WE HAVE THIS KIND OF FAITH?
1. We do, if our WALK does not measure up to our TALK!
2. We do, if our WORKS do not measure up to our WORDS!
II. DEMONIC FAITH (James 2:18-19)
A. PERHAPS TO SHOCK ANY COMPLACENT READERS, JAMES REMINDS US THAT EVEN DEMONS HAVE A KIND OF FAITH!
1. They believe in God (No atheists or agnostics here!)
2. They even believe in the deity of Christ – Mark 3:11-12
3. They also believe in the existence of a place of condemnation – Luke 8:31
4. And they believe Jesus will be the Judge! – Matthew 8:28-29
B. WHAT KIND OF FAITH DO “DEMONS” HAVE?
1. We saw that the man with “dead faith” was “touched only in his intellect”
2. The demons are “touched also in their emotions” (Note that they “believe and tremble”)
3. This is one step above a “dead faith” – it involves both INTELLECT and EMOTIONS
C. CAN THIS KIND OF FAITH SAVE?
1. NO! A person can be enlightened in his mind and even stirred in his heart and still be lost forever!
2. True saving faith involves something more, something that can be seen and recognized: a changed life! – James 2:18
3. Being a Christian involves trusting Christ and living for Christ!
a. You first RECEIVE the life
b. Then you REVEAL the life!
D. DO WE HAVE THIS KIND OF FAITH?
1. We do, if we just BELIEVE the right things and FEEL the right things
2. We do, if our service to God does not go beyond
a. Intellectually adhering to the right doctrines
b. Emotional experiences while attending services
III. DYNAMIC FAITH (James 2:20-26)
A. WHAT KIND OF FAITH IS THIS?
1. We know from other passages that such faith is based upon the Word of God – Romans 10:17
2. Dynamic faith involves the WHOLE MAN
a. DEAD faith touches only the intellect
b. DEMONIC faith involves both the mind and the emotions
c. DYNAMIC faith involves the intellect, the emotions, AND the WILL!
1) The MIND understands the truth
2) The HEART desires and rejoices in the truth
3) The WILL acts upon the truth
3. True, saving faith, then, LEADS TO ACTION
a. It is not intellectual contemplation
b. It is not emotionalism
c. It is that which leads to obedience in doing good works
B. TO ILLUSTRATE, JAMES REFERS TO TWO WELL-KNOW PERSONS IN THE BIBLE: ABRAHAM AND RAHAB
1. You could not find two more different persons!
a. Abraham was the father of the Jews; Rahab was a Gentile!
b. Abraham was a godly man; Rahab had been a sinful woman, a harlot!
c. Abraham was the friend of God; Rahab had belonged to the enemies of God!
2. What did they have in common? Both exercised saving faith in God!
a. Abraham demonstrated his saving faith by his works – James 2:20-24
b. Rahab demonstrated her saving faith by her works – James 2:25-26
3. We learn from this passage that:
a. Faith without works is a DEAD faith – James 2:20, 26
b. That “faith only” (The only time this phrase is found in the Scriptures) cannot justify one – James 2:24
c. That PERFECT faith necessitates works – James 2:22
Conclusion
1. It is important that each professing Christian examine his or her own heart and life, and make sure that they possess true saving faith, which is a dynamic faith
2. Satan is the great deceiver; one of his devices is imitation
a. If he can convince a person that counterfeit faith is true faith
b. …then he has that person in his power!
3. Here are some questions we can ask ourselves as we examine our faith:
- Was there a time when I honestly realized I was a sinner?
– Have I admitted this to myself?
– Have I admitted this to God? - Was there a time when my heart stirred me to flee from the wrath to come?
– Have I ever been seriously worked up over my sins? - Do I truly understand the gospel, that Christ died for MY sins and then rose again?
– Do I understand and confess that I cannot save myself? - Did I sincerely repent of my sins, making the decision to turn from them?
– Do I now hate sin and fear God?
– Or do I secretly love sin and want to enjoy it? - Have I trusted Christ and Him alone for my salvation by responding to the commands He has given?
– Have I confessed my faith in Christ and then been baptized for the remission of my sins as He and His apostles commanded? - Has there been a change in my life?
– Do I maintain good works, or are my good works occasional and weak?
– Do I seek to grow in the things of the Lord?
– Can others tell that I have been with Jesus? - Do I have a desire to share Christ with others? Or am I ashamed of Him?
- Do I enjoy the fellowship of God’s people? Is worship a delight to me?
- Am I ready for the Lord’s return?
– Or will I be ashamed when He comes for me?
4. To be sure, not every Christian has the same degree of faith; those who have had more time to grow should be stronger in faith
5. But for the most part, this spiritual inventory can assist a person in determining his or her true standing before God
6. May our prayer be similar to that of the Psalmist’s: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my anxieties; “And see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” – Psalms 139:23-24
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 04:13-14 This is Your Life – powerpoint
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Text: James 4:13-14
You were born into the world without sin
You became accountable
You have the freedom of your moral choices
- You can deny God or acknowledge Him
- You can deny Christ or confess Him
- You can follow the teachings of men or God
- You can walk after the flesh or after the Spirit
- You can go back into the world or remain faithful
You will give an account of your choices!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 02:01-13 The Sin of Partiality – audio
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Text: James 2:1-13
Introduction
1. In the first century, A.D., polarized conditions governed society; people were either rich or poor, slaves or free, Jew or Gentile, Greek or barbarian
2. However, part of the good news of the gospel was that in Christ Jesus social barriers lost much of their strength
a. As Paul wrote to the Galatians: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.” – Galatians 3:28
b. Again, in writing to the Colossians: “Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond [nor] free: but Christ is all, and in all.” – Colossians 3:11
3. But it took a while for this truth to sink into the hearts of those who were Christians; even the apostle Peter had to be told this truth through a vision and then a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit – Acts 10:34-35
4. From the second chapter of the epistle of James, it is apparent that showing partiality was still being practiced and its sinfulness needed to be pointed out
5. Because the sin of partiality is still prevalent in some forms today, let’s examine James 2:1-13 and consider what James has to say on this subject
Body
I. THE SIN OF PARTIALITY
A. AS MANIFESTED IN JAMES’ DAY
1. We know from other scriptures that Jewish Christians often showed partiality in regards to the Gentiles
2. But in this epistle, the problem was one of showing partiality between the rich and poor – James 2:2-4
B. TODAY, WE CAN ALSO BE GUILTY OF PARTIALITY
1. By showing partiality between rich and poor
a. For example, giving preferential treatment to visitors at our assemblies based upon their apparel
b. Or showing hospitality towards our rich friends, while ignoring those who are poor sometimes, it is the poor who despise the rich
2. By showing partiality between people of different races again, this can easily go both ways
3. Even by showing partiality between friends and visitors to our services
II. WHY CHRISTIANS CAN’T SHOW PARTIALITY
A. JESUS CHRIST IS A “GLORIOUS” LORD! (James 2:1)
1. It is possible that this point was being implied by James in using this description of Jesus to introduce the subject
2. What does OUR partiality have- to do with the LORD OF GLORY?
a. As Christians, we profess to be Christ’s disciples, or followers, whose goal is to imitate Him – Luke 6:40
b. As such, our actions are likely to be considered by others as a reflection of what Christ teaches
c. If we show partiality as Christians, we leave the impression that Jesus Himself is partial (prejudiced, biased, racist)
3. Therefore, if we are not careful, the glory of the Lord can be tainted by OUR partiality!
B. WE BECOME JUDGES WITH EVIL THOUGHTS (James 2:4)
1. God has always hated unjust judges
2. Jesus Himself warned about:
a. The dangers of judging – Matthew 7:1
b. The need to make righteous judgment – John 7:24
3. If we judge against the poor due to our prejudice against them, we will find ourselves fighting against God! – Psalm 109:31
C. WE DESPISE THOSE GOD HAS HONORED (James 2:5)
1. Both then and today God has chosen to honor the poor
a. The gospel was proclaimed to the poor – Luke 7:22
b. The majority of those who responded were from among the poor – 1 Corinthians 1:26-29
2. Both then and today God has chosen to honor ALL men – Acts 10:34-35
a. Therefore, when we show partiality because of a person’s race
b. Or because they are a stranger we do not know then we despise those whom God has honored by His offering to them salvation through the gospel!
3. Do we want to face God on the Day of Judgment guilty of such a crime?
D. WE HONOR THOSE MOST CAPABLE AND LIKELY OF OPPRESSING US (James 2:6-7)
1. The rich were doing this to the Christians in James’ day
2. Who are the ones most likely to oppress Christians today if it ever came down to “push and shove”?
a. Those who have the resources to do so
b. And most likely that would be the “majority” and the “affluent”
E. WE BREAK “THE ROYAL LAW” (James 2:8-11)
1. Which is “You shall love your neighbor as yourself”
2. This is one of the most fundamental laws that God has ever given!
a. As proclaimed by Christ – Matthew 22:36-40
b. As taught by Paul – Romans 13:8-10
3. And, as emphasized by James, by breaking one law, we become guilty of ALL the Law!
a. To show partiality is to make one as guilty as if they committed adultery or murder!
b. This illustrates just how terrible any sin is!
F. WE WILL ONE DAY BE JUDGED BY “THE LAW OF LIBERTY” (James 2:12-13)
1. This refers to the law of Christ, or the gospel
a. A law that has set us free from the bondage of sin through the mercy shown in Christ John 8:31-36
b. And a law that sets us free from man-made restrictions – Colossians 2:20-22
2. But if we:
a. Apply man-made restrictions upon others (like showing partiality)
b. Do not show mercy toward others then NO MERCY will be shown toward us! – Matthew 6:14-15
Conclusion
1. In view of all these things, we can understand why James would say: “My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.” – James 2:1
2. We can also better understand Peter’s reasoning why he had to accept the Gentiles: “Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as [he did] unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?” – Acts 11:17
3. And we are more likely to heed the prayer and admonition of Paul: Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: That ye may with one mind [and] one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God. – Romans 15:5-7
4. Brethren, we serve A GLORIOUS LORD, we serve to do things to His glory; may we NEVER allow the sin of partiality, bias, prejudice, or racism to taint that wonderful glory in any way!
5. If you are not a Christian:
1) Notice that in our text James speaks of:
a) The terribleness of even one sin – James 2:10
b) The fact of judgment – James 2:12
2) Won’t you accept the mercy God offers to you in the gospel of His Son Jesus Christ?
a) Remember, God is not a partial judge – cf. Romans 2:4-11
b) Why should He show mercy to you when you despise His mercy just as much as the vilest sinner?
3) Accept His mercy in obedience to the gospel today!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 01:26-27 Religion, Pure and Undefiled – audio
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Text: James 1:26-27
Introduction
1. What kind of religion do we have? Is it like a:
a. SPARE TIRE (used only in the case of an emergency)?
b. WHEELBARROW (easily upset and must be pushed)?
c. BUS (ridden only when it goes your way)?
2. Whatever kind of religion we have, it is of no value unless it is pleasing to God in heaven
3. We can find what constitutes pure and undefiled religion before God – James 1:26-27
4. To be sure that our own religion is acceptable before God, let’s notice some attributes of pure and undefiled religion
a. Indicated in this verse
b. It’s immediate context
Body
I. A PRACTICING RELIGION
A. IT INVOLVES DOING SOMETHING ON OUR PART
1. This is clearly implied in the phrase to visit, and to bridle our tongue
2. The context prior to this verse also makes it clear that we must be doers and not hearers only – James 1:22-25
3. This echoes the teachings of Jesus Himself – Matthew 7:21; Luke 6:46
B. IF WE ARE NOT DOERS, WE ARE DECEIVING OURSELVES (James 1:22)
1. And usually, it is ONLY ourselves we are deceiving!
2. We are certainly not deceiving God, nor Satan
3. And it unlikely that we fool others, especially our children
II. A PRACTICAL RELIGION
A. GOD DID NOT INTEND FOR OUR RELIGION TO CONSIST SOLELY OF GOING TO CHURCH
1. Extending OUR HEART TO GOD IN WORSHIP is certainly important
2. But so is extending OUR HAND TO MAN IN SERVICE! – James 1:27
B. THROUGHOUT THE N.T., MUCH EMPHASIS IS PLACED UPON DOING GOOD
1. From the writings of Paul – Galatians 6:10; Titus 2:14; 3:8, 14
2. From the author of Hebrews – Hebrews 13:16
3. From the apostle John – 1 John 3:17-18
III. A PERSONAL RELIGION
A. IMPLIED BY THE USE OF SINGULAR PRONOUNS IN THE TEXT
1. anyone – James 1:23
2. he, his – James 1:23
3. himself, he – James 1:24
4. he, this one – James 1:25
5. anyone, he, his, this one’s – James 1:26
6. oneself – James 1:27
B. NOW, THERE IS A PLACE FOR CORPORATE GIVING
1. That is, where we give in conjunction with others to meet a need
2. For example, in helping needy Christians – 1 Corinthians 16:1-2
C. BUT IT WAS NEVER INTENDED TO REPLACE OUR INDIVIDUAL AND PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY!
1. Some might think:
a. That their giving on Sunday fulfills their responsibility to the poor, the widows, and the orphans
b. That it fulfills their obligation to preach the gospel
2. God still expects us to fulfill our personal service to the poor, widows, and orphans as we have the ability and opportunity
3. Just as we find in the Old Testament
a. Though the third year tithe was for the widows and orphans – Deuteronomy 26:12
b. They were to always help them whenever they had the opportunity!
IV. A PURE RELIGION
A. THIS SOUNDS REDUNDANT, BUT IN OUR DAY IT MUST BE EMPHASIZED!
1. Our society has become increasingly immoral and materialistic
2. Such is wreaking havoc upon many in the Lord’s church
3. What we hear and see may only be the tip of the iceberg!
B. OUR RELIGION IS FOR NOTHING, UNLESS IT IS
1. PURE – without blemish
2. UNDEFILED – untainted
3. Capable of keeping us UNSPOTTED from (by) the world
C. BUT IF WE ARE SINNERS (as affirmed in 1 John 1:8), HOW CAN WE EVER BE PURE, UNDEFILED, AND UNSPOTTED?
1. It is possible, only BY THE BLOOD OF CHRIST!
a. Which can cleanse us and make us pure if we walk in the light with God – 1 John 1:7
b. This involves keeping the commandments of God – 1 John 2:3
1) For example, experiencing the INITIAL CLEANSING of the blood when we obey the commands to repent and be baptized for the remission of sins – Acts 2:38
2) And, experiencing the CONTINUOUS CLEANSING of the blood when we confess our sins to God – 1 John 1:9
2. It is possible only BY THE HELP OF GOD!
a. Who not only provides the blood of Christ to cleanse us from sin
b. But also a way of escape in times of temptation – 1 Corinthians 10:13
3. Yes, with Christ’s blood and God’s help, it is possible to be pure, undefiled, and unspotted by the world!
4. And this is what makes the religion of Jesus Christ UNIQUE!
a. Other religions may be practicing, practical and personal
b. But only the true religion of Jesus Christ can present one pure in the sight of God! – John 14:6
Conclusion
1. What kind of religion do YOU have?
a. Is it a PRACTICING religion?
1) Does it go beyond the walls of a building?
2) Does it go beyond the printed pages of the Bible?
3) Does it go beyond a superficial hearing of the Word?
b. Is it a PRACTICAL religion?
1) Does it consist of more than JUST going to church, reading, and praying?
2) Does it reach out and manifest itself in compassion to those in need?
c. Is it a PERSONAL religion?
1) Going beyond what we may do in conjunction with others?
2) Including our personal involvement apart from what others may do?
d. And is it a PURE religion?
1) Involving our initial cleansing from sin by the blood of Christ as we in faith repented and were baptized?
2) Involving our continual cleansing by the blood of Christ as we confess our sins and repent of them?
3) Does it include a putting away of sin with the help of God so that we might be unspotted by the world?
2. If not, then whatever religion we have is USELESS and we are simply DECEIVING OURSELVES!
3. Let’s always encourage one another to be sure and have a pure and undefiled religion before God!
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 01:18-25 God’s Word as a Guide – audio
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Text: James 1:18-25
Introduction
1. We must understand the powerful guidance of God’s Word if we are to use the Bible as a tool to teach others.
A. O Lord, I know the way of man is not in himself; It is not in man who walks to direct his own steps – Jeremiah 10:23
B. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes – Romans 1:16
Body
I. God’s Word is able to guide one to become a new creature
A. James 1:18
B. The Christian is a unique being – 2 Corinthians 5:17
II. God’s Word is able to guide one to the saving of his soul
A. James 1:21
B. Conversion is brought about through the power of God’s Word – James 5:20 “he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a Soul”
III. God’s Word is able to guide us to see ourselves as we really are
A. James 1:24
B. We see the reality of our sin and the desire of God to save us – 1 Timothy 2:3-4 “who desires all men to be saved”
IV. God’s Word blesses the life of the one who is guided by it
A. James 1:25
B. We have security, direction, and purpose – Philippians 1:21 “For to me, to live is Christ…”
Conclusion:
1. To be guided by God’s Word is to be swift to hear – James 1:19
2. To have the Word engrafted – James 1:21
3. To receive the Word – James 1:22
4. To obey the Word – James 1:22-23
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 01:19-20 Slow to Wrath – audio
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Text: James 1:19-20
Introduction
1. We find a threefold injunction in James 1:19-20:
a. Swift to hear
b. Slow to speak
c. Slow to wrath
2. From the context, it appears that these admonitions are given in regards to our reception of the Word of God – James 1:18; James 1:21
a. Therefore, they are qualities needed especially in times of trial when we need most the Word of God
b. In other words, we need to humbly and calmly be receptive to what the Word of God has to say
3. In this lesson, I wish to concentrate our attention on the third admonition: slow to wrath
a. Especially in view of James 1:20 – For the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God
b. And also because wrath (and its close cousin anger) are too often excused as minor sins
Body
I. AN OVERALL LOOK AT ANGER AND WRATH
A. DEFINING ANGER AND WRATH
1. ANGER – (Greek, orge)
a. Indignation which has arisen gradually and become more settled – THAYER
b. ORGE suggests a more settled or abiding condition of mind, frequently with a view to taking revenge – VINE
c. Anger, then, is a lingering, seething emotion
2. WRATH – (Greek, thumos)
a. The sudden outburst of passionate anger
b. The blaze of temper which flares into violent words and deeds, and just as quickly dies
c. Today we would call this blowing off steam
B. THE OLD TESTAMENT BOOKS OF WISDOM SAY MUCH ABOUT ANGER AND WRATH
1. In the Psalms: Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; Do not fret—it only causes harm – Psalms 37:8
2. In the book of Proverbs:
a. A quick-tempered man acts foolishly – Proverbs 14:17
b. He who is slow to wrath has great understanding, But he who is impulsive exalts folly – Proverbs 14:29
c. A wrathful man stirs up strife, But he who is slow to anger allays contention – Proverbs 15:18
d. He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, And he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city – Proverbs 16:32
e. A man of great wrath will suffer punishment; For if you rescue him, you will have to do it again – Proverbs 19:19
f. Better to dwell in the wilderness, than with a contentious and angry woman – Proverbs 21:19
g. Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul – Proverbs 22:24-25
3. In the book of Ecclesiastes: Do not hasten in thy spirit to be angry: for anger rests in the bosom of fools – Ecclesiastes 7:9
C. THE NEW TESTAMENT ALSO SAYS MUCH AGAINST ANGER AND WRATH
1. To the brethren in Rome, Paul wrote: Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY,” says the Lord – Romans 12:19
2. It is included with those things Paul lists as the works of the flesh in Galatians 5:19-21
3. To the Ephesians Paul writes: Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice – Ephesians 4:31
4. In a similar vein to the Colossians: But now you yourselves are to put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language out of your mouth – Colossians 3:8
D. HAVING SAID ALL THAT, WE MUST ALSO NOTE THAT:
1. Paul seems to concede that there is a place for a certain kind of anger: Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath – Ephesians 4:26
2. On several occasions Jesus expressed anger
a. Towards the money changers in the temple – John 2:13-17
b. Towards the hypocritical scribes and Pharisees – Matthew 23:13-36
3. In both testaments, God is presented as a God of anger as well as a God of love
a. In the Old Testament:
1) Psalms 78:49-51
2) Psalms 78:58-61
3) Therefore the anger of the LORD is aroused against His people; He has stretched out His hand against them And stricken them, And the hills trembled. Their carcasses were as refuse in the midst of the streets. For all this His anger is not turned away, but His hand is stretched out still – Isaiah 5:25
b. In the New Testament:
1) For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness – Romans 1:18
2) Romans 2:4-11
4. How do we then reconcile those passages which demand that anger and wrath is folly and something to be put away, with those that speak of anger on the part of God, Christ and even the Christian?
II. A CLOSER LOOK AT ANGER AND WRATH
A. CONCERNING THE ANGER OF GOD
1. God’s anger is ALWAYS A JUST REACTION TO EVIL – Romans 1:18-2:11
a. Being Divine, and all-knowing, His wrath is NEVER MISGUIDED
b. He is therefore capable of properly directing anger and wrath
2. Man, with his imperfections, is not so capable!
a. Man’s anger is often misguided (through ignorance, misunderstanding, etc.)
b. Haven’t we all been angry about something, later regretting it when we realize we were in error?
3. Therefore, just because God may display wrath and anger, this does not necessarily justify man doing so!
B. CONCERNING THE ANGER OF CHRIST
1. What has already been said of God could also be said of Christ
a. Especially in light of His ability to read the hearts of men – John 2:24-25
b. With such divine knowledge, He could not mistakenly direct wrath and anger
2. Also, in the examples of His anger
a. There is nothing of self-interest
b. Only HOLY ANGER against unrighteousness which is abhorrent to God
3. He was angry, but only for God’s honor!
a. When personally abused, He said nothing – 1 Peter 2:21-23
b. But when it was against God, He displayed righteous anger
4. Again, man with his imperfections often uses anger improperly
a. For example
1) We remain silent when sin is exalted and GOD is dishonored
2) But then get angry when someone offends US personally!
b. Too often, therefore, what we justify as righteous indignation is really SELF-righteous indignation!
C. CONCERNING THE ANGER IN EPHESIANS 4:26
1. Whatever our understanding, it needs to be in harmony with the context
2. Especially with what Paul writes just a few verses later: Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice – Ephesians 4:31
3. I understand this passage, rather than justifying anger, to be directing us how to deal with it when it arises in our heart:
a. First, DO NOT SIN
1) The emotion must be CONTROLLED
2) Don’t allow it to manifest itself in a sinful way
3) Such as saying or doing something that is wrong
b. Then, DO NOT LET THE SUN GO DOWN ON YOUR WRATH
1) The emotion must be DISPELLED BEFORE NIGHTFALL
2) Otherwise, we may be giving Satan ample opportunity to tempt us to sin – Ephesians 4:27
4. In view of what Paul actually says in Ephesians 4:26 and then later in Ephesians 4:31, it seems highly unlikely that he is justifying anger and wrath
Conclusion
1. Concerning the subject of anger and wrath, we would do well to take James’ admonition to heart and to be slow to wrath
2. For though the wrath of God may on occasions accomplish the righteousness of God, it is clearly stated that the wrath of man does not: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God – James 1:20
3. Following the example of Christ, there may be a place for anger, but if so, ONLY in things pertaining to the honor and will of God!
4. In all other things, we would do well to remember another admonition:
And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all [men], apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And [that] they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will – 2 Timothy 2:24-26
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to Wrath – James 1:19
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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James 01:12-18 The Christian and Temptation – powerpoint
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James-01-12-18-The-Christian-and-Temptations.pdf
James-01-12-18-The-Christian-and-Temptations.pptx
Text: James 1:12-18
Introduction:
1. One of the greatest challenges of living the Christian life is dealing with temptations
a. For it can be frustrating to know that your sins have been forgiven
b. …only to find yourself bombarded by temptations to continue in your sins
2. James 1:12-18: we find helpful words for the Christian in the form of:
a. A PROMISE to those who endure temptations
b. A CAUTION not to wrongfully blame God
c. AN UNDERSTANDING of how sin develops
Body
I. THE PROMISE – James 1:12
A. THE MAN WHO ENDURES TEMPTATION WILL BE BLESSED
1. The Greek word for blessed is makarios
2. Which means happy, blessed
3. The nature of the happiness enjoyed is described as the verse continues
B. FOR AFTER HE HAS BEEN PROVED HE WILL RECEIVE THE CROWN OF LIFE
1. The promise is that of eternal life
2. The promise is given by Him Who cannot lie – Titus 1:2
3. The promise is given to those who demonstrate their love for God by their endurance of the temptations – James 1:3
II. THE CAUTION – James 1:13, James 1:16-18
A. LET NO ONE SAY THEY ARE TEMPTED BY GOD! – James 1:13
1. That is, to blame God for their temptations
2. For God is so HOLY:
a. He cannot be tempted by evil
b. Nor does He tempt anyone to do evil
B. SO DON’T BE DECEIVED INTO SUCH THINKING – James 1:16-18
1. God is the source of GOOD, not evil!
2. Every good and perfect gift comes from Him!
3. As an example, it was of His Own Will that He brought us forth
a. Which He did by the word of truth – 1 Peter 1:22-23
b. So we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures
III. THE UNDERSTANDING – James 1:14-15
A. HOW SIN DEVELOPS
1. The first stage is TEMPTATION – James 1:14
a. This stage involves two things:
1) DESIRES – a strong desire for something
2) ENTICEMENT – an opportunity and encouragement to satisfy the desire
b. Put into a mathematical formula: Temptation = Desire + Opportunity
c. For example: a small boy is TEMPTED to steal some cookies when he WANTS them and has a good chance to get them and not be seen
d. But remember, it is NOT a sin to be TEMPTED – Hebrews 4:15
2. The second stage in the development of sin is SIN ITSELF – James 1:15
a. Temptation leads to sin only when you yield and ACT upon it
b. Sin therefore requires the added step of ACTION
c. Putting it again in mathematical terms: Sin = Desire + Opportunity + Action
3. The final stage is the consequence of unforgiven sin: DEATH – James 1:15
a. This refers to spiritual separation from God, which is the wages of sin – Romans 6:23
b. Ultimately such death involves eternal punishment – Revelation 21:8
c. Putting it once more in the form of an equation: Desire + Opportunity + Action + No Forgiveness = Punishment!
B. HOW TO OVERCOME SIN
1. CHANGE OUR DESIRES
a. Since this is where the process of sin begins, it is the best place for us to begin
b. Bear in mind that it is a part of Christian growth to change our desires – Romans 12:1-2
c. How do we change our desires?
1) Notice that the WORD OF GOD has always been instrumental in helping people overcome sin – Psalm 119:11; Matthew 4:3-10
2) To see how the Word of God can change our desires0
a) As we read of God’s love, longsuffering and mercy, we desire to serve Him – Psalm 116:12-14
b) As we read of sin and its damnable consequences, we come to hate it! – Psalm 119:104
d. So the more we study God’s Word, the less likely we will have the DESIRE to sin, thereby beginning to overcome sin by nipping it in the bud!
e. But changing our desires takes time; while engaged in the process of changing our desires, what else can we do?
2. LIMIT OUR OPPORTUNITIES
a. Remember, we are tempted only when there is BOTH desire and opportunity
b. So while we work on changing our desires, we should limit the opportunities to fulfill wrongful desires
c. This can be done by ASKING FOR GOD’S PROVIDENTIAL HELP, as Jesus taught – Matthew 6:13; Matthew 26:41
d. We can cooperate with God by:
1) Purposely avoiding situations that might excite wrongful desires
a) Following the example of David – Psalm 101:3-4
b) And the example of Job – Job 31:1
2) Avoiding those whose evil behavior encourages us to sin with them
a) Again, David sets a good example – Psalm 101:6-7
b) Paul also adds his warning – 1 Corinthians 15:33
e. But we will unlikely remove EVERY desire and opportunity to sin in this life, what then?
3. EXERCISE SELF-CONTROL
a. Remember, it becomes sin when we yield to ACTION in fulfilling our sinful desires
b. If we can control ourselves so as to not yield, then we can overcome sin!
c. How does the Christian exercise self-control?
1) Self-control is but one aspect of the fruit of the Spirit – Galatians 5:22-23
2) Strengthened by the Spirit, we are able to put to death the deeds of the body – Romans 8:12-13
3) As Paul said: I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. – Philippians 4:13
d. It is through faith in God’s Word that the Christian believes that he has this divine help – Ephesians 3:20
1) It is certainly proper to pray for it, as Paul did in behalf of the Ephesians – Ephesians 3:16
2) But equally important, to act upon it, trusting that you are not alone as you try to do God’s will – Philippians 2:12-13
3) As an exercise commercial once said: JUST DO IT!
e. The Christian, then, has no excuse for yielding to a temptation – 1 Corinthians 10:13
f. But there may be times when we don’t take advantage of the strength God provides through His Spirit, and we sin; what then?
4. OBTAIN FORGIVENESS
a. Remember that sin is victorious when it results in punishment
b. But if we obtain forgiveness through the blood of Christ, we can avoid that punishment and thereby still overcome sin! – 1 John 2:1-2
c. Yes, Christ is truly the propitiation for our sins!
1) By His blood, we were forgiven of past sins when united with Him in BAPTISM – Acts 2:38; Acts 22:16; Revelation 1:5
2) By His blood, we can be forgiven of present sins when we REPENT, PRAY, and CONFESS our sins to God – Acts 8:22; 1 John 1:9
d. At any time the Christian can overcome sins that were committed, by repenting and confessing them to God!
Conclusion
1. Indeed, we can overcome sin by stopping its development at ANY one of the four stages leading to the final punishment!
2. If you noticed carefully, you should have seen that at each of the four points in the development of sin, God is able and willing to help us overcome sin!
a. God helps us to control our desires by providing His WORD to renew our minds
b. God helps us to limit the opportunities through His PROVIDENCE as we pray for such
c. God helps us to exercise self-control over our actions through His SPIRIT strengthening the inner man
d. God helps us to obtain forgiveness through the blood of his son as we repent and pray
3. So how could anyone say that God would tempt us to sin?
a. Certainly He is the giver of every good and perfect gift! – James 1:17
b. Even as Paul wrote, in 2 Thessalonians 3:3; 1 Corinthians 10:13
4. Have you taken advantage of God’s way of escape for the sins you have committed?
5. If not, why not do so by obeying the gospel, the Word of Truth, and become one of the firstfruits of His creatures?
Content by Donald W. Treadway
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