"Saving Faith: How Actions Reflect Our Beliefs"

James 2:14–26 KJV 1900

What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way? For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

I. Intro

At Christmastime, sometimes you see empty boxes wrapped as Christmas gifts used as decorations. Sometimes you see these under a Christmas tree or outside their homes with their other decorations. These empty boxes appear to be authentic Christmas gifts, but they are frauds. The good thing about them, is you don’t have to worry if a theif comes and steals them from outside your home. They are empty on the inside. A lot of Christians are well wrapped but there is nothing going on in the inside. Unfortunately, many people don’t want to be truly blessed; they just want to be well wrapped. True, authentic Christian living starts on the inside and the evidence of that life works its way to the outside.

In the epistle of James, we encounter a profound and compelling discourse on the inseparable bond between faith and works. In the heart of this letter, the apostle James pens a passage that reverberates through the ages, challenging us to examine the authenticity of our faith and its transformative power in our lives. James 2:14-26 presents a thought-provoking message that compels us to move beyond mere intellectual assent and verbal professions of belief, delving into the very essence of a faith that is alive and fruitful. Throughout this portion of scripture, James navigates the delicate balance between faith and works, unearthing a foundational truth that has been debated and misunderstood within Christian circles for generations. With penetrating clarity, he addresses the critical question: Can faith exist in isolation, detached from tangible expressions of love, compassion, and service to others? By illustrating a poignant dialogue between an imaginary objector and himself, James drives his point home with unwavering conviction. In these verses, James confronts the peril of a lifeless, ineffectual faith that merely recites empty creeds without a corresponding commitment to action. He paints a vivid picture of a person who claims faith yet remains apathetic towards the needs of those around them, emphasizing that faith devoid of deeds is no faith at all. This passage becomes a timeless mirror that reflects the true nature of our beliefs and challenges us to evaluate whether our faith has produced the life-transforming fruits that genuinely align with our profession. Drawing on powerful examples from the lives of Abraham and Rahab, James unveils the dynamics of a living faith, wherein belief and action are intricately woven together like two sides of the same coin. Abraham's unwavering obedience to God's command to offer Isaac as a sacrifice and Rahab's courageous protection of the Israelite spies exemplify how faith becomes tangible when tested by real-life circumstances.

II. The Problem of Dead Faith

What is dead faith?

Dead faith refers to a type of belief or professed faith that lacks the power to produce any meaningful or transformative impact in a person's life. It is a faith that remains stagnant, inactive, and devoid of genuine expression through deeds, actions, and a changed lifestyle. In other words, it is a faith that exists only on the surface, without any evidence of its vitality in a person's character or behavior.

James goes on to explain that if someone sees a brother or sister in need and merely offers them empty words of encouragement without providing any practical help, their faith is essentially dead and useless. He emphasizes that true faith, when alive, naturally results in compassionate deeds and genuine concern for others.

Emphasizing the ineffectiveness of empty faith in meeting the needs of others.

Empty faith, characterized by mere words and lacking corresponding actions, is inherently ineffective in meeting the needs of others. While words can be comforting and encouraging, they are often insufficient in bringing about tangible help and support to those who are in distress or facing challenging circumstances. In times of hardship, people need more than just empty assurances or well-wishes. They require practical assistance, empathy, and a genuine display of compassion. A faith that remains confined to verbal expressions without being translated into action fails to provide the essential aid and care that those in need desperately seek.

Throughout the Bible, we find numerous examples of how Jesus exemplified active compassion and practical assistance towards those in need. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, comforted the grieving, and demonstrated that genuine faith leads to acts of kindness and mercy. As followers of Christ, we are called to follow His example and put our faith into action. By doing so, we can bring comfort, hope, and tangible support to those who are struggling. James 2:17 reminds us, "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."

III. The Evidence of Genuine Faith

Delving deeper into the example of Rahab as a woman of faith

Delving deeper into the example of Rahab as a woman of faith provides us with profound insights into the transformative power of genuine belief, even in the most unexpected circumstances. Rahab's story is found in the book of Joshua, chapter 2, and her faith journey offers valuable lessons that continue to inspire believers throughout the ages.

A Sinner Saved by Faith: Rahab was not a person one might expect to be celebrated as a woman of faith. Before the Israelite spies arrived in Jericho, she was a Canaanite prostitute living in a city that stood opposed to God's people. However, when the spies sought refuge in her home, Rahab demonstrated an unwavering faith in the God of Israel. Despite her past and the cultural context in which she lived, her heart turned towards the one true God.

The Courage to Take a Stand: Rahab's faith was not just a passive belief; it led her to take bold actions. When the king of Jericho demanded she hand over the Israelite spies, she risked her life to protect them. She hid them on her rooftop and deceived the authorities, proving that her allegiance had shifted from the city's rulers to the God of Israel.

Faith in Action: Rahab's faith was not merely a private belief confined to her heart; it was put into action. She asked for the spies' protection for herself and her family when the Israelites attacked Jericho. In response to her faith and actions, the spies assured her that she and her family would be spared when the city fell.

Joshua 2:12-14 “Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the Lord, since I have shewed you kindness, that ye will also shew kindness unto my father’s house, and give me a true token: And that ye will save alive my father, and my mother, and my brethren, and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death. And the men answered her, Our life for yours, if ye utter not this our business. And it shall be, when the Lord hath given us the land, that we will deal kindly and truly with thee.”

Inclusion in the Lineage of Christ: Rahab's extraordinary display of faith earned her a place of honor in the genealogy of Jesus Christ. She is listed as one of the ancestors of King David and, subsequently, of Jesus. Matthew 1:5 “And Salmon begat Booz of Rachab; and Booz begat Obed of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse;” This inclusion emphasizes that faith transcends cultural backgrounds and societal status, and God welcomes all who believe in Him.

Relating her faith to our present-day Christian lives

Rahab's faith serves as an inspiring and relevant model for present-day Christians, offering several valuable lessons and applications for our lives:

The Universality of God's Grace: Rahab's story reminds us that God's grace is not limited by our past mistakes or social standing. No matter where we come from or what we have done, God's love and forgiveness are available to all who turn to Him in faith. Rahab's life demonstrates that God can redeem anyone and use them for His purposes, no matter their background.

Active Faith in Action: Rahab's faith was not a passive belief but one that drove her to take courageous action. In our lives today, genuine faith should lead us to actively demonstrate God's love and compassion to others. It challenges us to step out of our comfort zones and make a positive impact on the lives of those around us.

Courage to Stand Apart: Rahab's faith compelled her to stand apart from her culture and make a bold choice to side with God and His people. In our present-day context, being a Christian often requires us to stand apart from the prevailing culture and values. Like Rahab, we must have the courage to live according to God's principles, even when it's unpopular or difficult.

The Power of a Changed Life: Rahab's transformation from a sinful lifestyle to a woman of faith showcases the power of God to change lives. It reminds us that our faith should result in a transformed life, marked by love, compassion, and righteousness. Our actions should align with our beliefs, reflecting the character of Christ to the world.

IV. Application and Implications

1. Encouraging self-reflection: Is our faith alive and active?

i. Is our faith evident in our actions and attitudes? Genuine faith naturally produces fruit in the form of love, kindness, humility, and forgiveness. Consider whether your actions and interactions with others reflect the character of Christ.

ii. Do we trust God in all circumstances? An active faith relies on God's wisdom, goodness, and sovereignty, even in challenging situations. Examine whether you are leaning on Him or relying on your own strength.

iii. Are we stepping out in obedience to God's leading? Faith often involves taking steps of obedience, even when it requires stepping into the unknown. Reflect on whether you are willing to follow God's guidance, even when it's uncomfortable or requires sacrifice.

V. Conclusion

Throughout this powerful epistle, the apostle James passionately emphasizes the inseparable nature of true faith and deeds, challenging us to move beyond mere intellectual assent and empty professions of belief. Instead, he calls us to embrace a living faith that bears fruit in acts of love, compassion, and service to others. Through the lives of Abraham and Rahab, we discover that faith and works are not in opposition but rather intrinsically connected. True faith is not merely an abstract belief system but a living, transformative force that compels us to love and serve others selflessly. It leads us to step out in obedience, even when faced with uncertainty, and to be compassionate to those in need, regardless of their backgrounds or circumstances. As we contemplate these profound truths, we are faced with the question: Is our faith alive and active? The words of James echo in our hearts, urging us to evaluate the authenticity of our beliefs. Are we living out our faith daily, seeking God's will through prayer and His Word? Does our faith manifest itself in actions that demonstrate love and compassion to those around us? Are we courageous enough to stand apart from the world's values, trusting in God's sovereignty and stepping out in obedience? Let us not be content with a lifeless faith, for true Christianity requires a vibrant and transformative relationship with our Creator. Like Rahab, may our lives reflect the grace and redemptive power of God, as we become living testimonies of His love and compassion to a broken world. Through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, may we be agents of positive change, extending mercy and grace to those in need.