10/20/2024 Midtown Church Elk Grove
The Book of James: Words to Live By
“Walk it like you Talk it”
Pastor Tyronne Gross Jr.
Main Text: James 2:12-13
Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, 13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
Biblical Background of the Book of James
- He urged believers to live out their faith, despite local persecution.
- James, Jesus’ half-brother, became a leader after witnessing the resurrection.
- James emphasizes living a life that aligns with our faith, highlighting the inseparable link between faith and works.
1. No VIPs Here (James 2:1-7)
My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. 2 Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. 3 If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” 4 have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?
5 Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? 6 But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? 7 Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong?
2. Love, It’s the Law (James 2:8-10-,12-13)
8 If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. 9 But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers. 10 For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.
12 Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, 13 because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
True obedience to God means living out our faith fully, in every area of our lives.
3. Talk is Cheap – Back It Up (James 2:14)
What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?
Paul vs James or Paul/James:
Paul is focusing on the root of our salvation—faith in Christ alone.
James is focusing on the fruit of our salvation.