March 5, 2017

What does a saving faith look like? - James 2:14-26

Preacher: Heath Haynes Series: James Scripture: James 2:14–26

As we study the book of James, we will see how faith and works are inseparable in our living out the life in Jesus Christ.

Sermon Text : James 2:14-26

Broader Context - James 1:26-2:26

Link to James Study Resources HERE
Link to Personal Study Guide HERE

Questions

  • As you read this passage, make sure to notice 2:14, 17, 20, 24, & 26
  • What is your first response to these verses?
  • Read Ephesians 2:8-9 - Do you feel like James and Paul are contradicting each other?
  • If we hold to the understanding that the Bible does not contradict itself but yet feel that it does, that must drive us to dig deeper seeing that our understanding is incomplete.
  • Now read Ephesians 2:10
  • How does verse 10 help reconcile the two perspectives?
  • A key question to our understanding: What is the point of our faith?
  • Is it salvation from hell only/reconciliation to God only?
  • Why is the word, "that" so important here?
  • Notice in verse 18 that James is not negating the saving work of faith - "I will show you my faith by my works." - James has faith.
  • How would you define faith?
  • Could we agree that a good definition could be "Faith is supernatural trust?"
  • Reflect and record on the chain of events that would have to take place in a person's life from before salvation in order for this reality of faith with works to be expressed as a joyful offering of life/a non-legalistic way?
  • Have you experienced that?
  • What does this text reveal about God?
  • What does this text reveal about mankind/you?
  • How does this passage teach the Gospel/point to Jesus?
  • Who do you need to share what you have learned from this text with this week?

other sermons in this series

May 21

2017

Where did they go? James 5:19-20

Preacher: Heath Haynes Scripture: James 5:19–20 Series: James

May 14

2017

Let Us Pray- James 5:13-18

Preacher: Heath Haynes Scripture: James 5:13–18 Series: James

May 7

2017

The Force of Truth- James 5:12

Preacher: Heath Haynes Scripture: James 5:12 Series: James