How to be Real in Human Relationships

Being Real in an Automated World  •  Sermon  •  Submitted
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Being Real an Automated World
How to be Real in Human Relationships
How to be Real in Human Relationships
How to be Real in Human Relationships
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1 My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?
1 My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?
2 For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes.
2 For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes.
1 My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?
3 If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—well,
3 If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—well,
2 For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes.
4 doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?
4 doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?
5 Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him?
5 Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him?
3 If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—well,
6 But you dishonor the poor! Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court?
6 But you dishonor the poor! Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court?
7 Aren’t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you bear?
7 Aren’t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you bear?
4 doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?
8 Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
8 Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
5 Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him?
9 But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You are guilty of breaking the law.
9 But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You are guilty of breaking the law.
10 For the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a person who has broken all of God’s laws.
10 For the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a person who has broken all of God’s laws.
6 But you dishonor the poor! Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court?
11 For the same God who said, “You must not commit adultery,” also said, “You must not murder.” So if you murder someone but do not commit adultery, you have still broken the law.
11 For the same God who said, “You must not commit adultery,” also said, “You must not murder.” So if you murder someone but do not commit adultery, you have still broken the law.
12 So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be judged by the law that sets you free.
12 So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be judged by the law that sets you free.
7 Aren’t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you bear?
13 There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.
13 There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.
8 Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone?
14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone?
15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing,
15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing,
9 But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You are guilty of breaking the law.
16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?
16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
10 For the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a person who has broken all of God’s laws.
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”
11 For the same God who said, “You must not commit adultery,” also said, “You must not murder.” So if you murder someone but do not commit adultery, you have still broken the law.
19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror.
19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror.
20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?
20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?
12 So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be judged by the law that sets you free.
21 Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?
21 Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?
22 You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith complete.
22 You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith complete.
13 There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.
23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” He was even called the friend of God.
23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” He was even called the friend of God.
14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone?
24 So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do, not by faith alone.
24 So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do, not by faith alone.
25 Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and sent them safely away by a different road.
25 Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and sent them safely away by a different road.
15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing,
26 Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.
26 Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.
Introduction:
Introduction:
16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?
A- The reality of our faith can be tested.
A- The reality of our faith can be tested.
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
1- At the end of James chapter 1, the writer established acid tests that are
1- At the end of James chapter 1, the writer established acid tests that are designed to expose the genuineness of a believer’s faith.
designed to expose the genuineness of a believer’s faith.
designed to expose the genuineness of a believer’s faith.
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”
a- The test of obedience ()
a- The test of obedience ()
b- The test of true religion ()
b- The test of true religion ()
19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror.
B- In chapter two, James instructs us about being real in human relationships.
B- In chapter two, James instructs us about being real in human
20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?
relationships.
relationships.
1- The principles that he lays out and the searchlight of God’s word
1- The principles that he lays out and the searchlight of God’s word directly into our interaction with other people.
21 Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?
directly into our interaction with other people.
directly into our interaction with other people.
a- It is impossible to be properly related to God if we are improperly
a- It is impossible to be properly related to God if we are improperly related to other people.
22 You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith complete.
related to other people.
related to other people.
b- When we are improperly related to other people, we give the world
b- When we are improperly related to other people, we give the world opportunity to criticize our Lord and ridicule Christianity.
23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” He was even called the friend of God.
opportunity to criticize our Lord and ridicule Christianity.
opportunity to criticize our Lord and ridicule Christianity.
24 So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do, not by faith alone.
2- It is imperative that we exercise genuine, biblical Christianity in
2- It is imperative that we exercise genuine, biblical Christianity in our human relationships in order to be able to proclaim the good news of Christ effectively.
our human relationships in order to be able to proclaim the good
our human relationships in order to be able to proclaim the good
25 Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and sent them safely away by a different road.
​
news of Christ effectively.
news of Christ effectively.
We must be real in our attitudes toward others (). I.A.Real Faith in Christ is incompatible with real discipleship

I- We must be real in our attitudes toward others ().

26 Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.
().
().

A. Real Faith in Christ is incompatible with favoritism ().

Introduction:
1 My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?
1 My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?
2 For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes.
2 For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes.
A- The reality of our faith can be tested.
3 If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—
3 If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—
well, 4 doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?
well, 4 doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?
1- At the end of James chapter 1, the writer established acid tests that are
A question that needs answering: () The question that James asks assumes a negative answer. A practical illustration of the problem: () The example James gives illustrates a practical problem.
1- A question that needs answering: ()
a- The question that James asks assumes a negative answer.
2- A practical illustration of the problem: ()
designed to expose the genuineness of a believer’s faith.
a- The example James gives illustrates a practical problem.
3. A Pointed Indictment: ().
3- A Pointed Indictment: ().
Prejudicial treatment of others is born from evil motives.
a- Prejudicial treatment of others is born from evil motives.
a- The test of obedience ()
B. Real faith in Christ is exercised when we make an honest

B. Real faith in Christ is exercised when we make an honest assessment of people based upon biblical principles ().

assessment of people based upon biblical principles ().
assessment of people based upon biblical principles ().
b- The test of true religion ()
5 Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in
5 Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him?
B- In chapter two, James instructs us about being real in human
this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the
this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the
Kingdom he promised to those who love him?
Kingdom he promised to those who love him?
relationships.
6 But you dishonor the poor! Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag
6 But you dishonor the poor! Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court?
you into court?
you into court?
1- The principles that he lays out and the searchlight of God’s word
7 Aren’t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you bear?
7 Aren’t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you
directly into our interaction with other people.
bear?
bear?
1. Worldly possessions do not constitute eternal reality ().
1. Worldly possessions do not constitute eternal reality ().
a- It is impossible to be properly related to God if we are improperly
2. The Stark Reality: we sometimes tend to allow our loyalties to become
2. The Stark Reality: we sometimes tend to allow our loyalties to become confused ().
confused ().
confused ().
related to other people.
C. Real faith in Christ calls us to live by a higher standard

C. Real faith in Christ calls us to live by a higher standard ().

b- When we are improperly related to other people, we give the world

().

().
8 Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
8 Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the
opportunity to criticize our Lord and ridicule Christianity.
Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
9 But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You
9 But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You are guilty of breaking the law.
2- It is imperative that we exercise genuine, biblical Christianity in
are guilty of breaking the law.
are guilty of breaking the law.
our human relationships in order to be able to proclaim the good
10 For the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a
10 For the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a person who has broken all of God’s laws.
person who has broken all of God’s laws.
person who has broken all of God’s laws.
news of Christ effectively.
11 For the same God who said, “You must not commit adultery,” also
11 For the same God who said, “You must not commit adultery,” also said, “You must not murder.” So if you murder someone but do not commit adultery, you have still broken the law.
said, “You must not murder.” So if you murder someone but do not
said, “You must not murder.” So if you murder someone but do not
I. We must be real in our attitudes toward others ().
commit adultery, you have still broken the law.
commit adultery, you have still broken the law.
12 So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be
12 So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be judged by the law that sets you free.
A. I.A.Real Faith in Christ is incompatible with real discipleship
judged by the law that sets you free.
judged by the law that sets you free.
().
13 There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.
13 There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others.
But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.
But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.
1 My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?
1. The higher standard: the royal law of love ().
1. The higher standard: the royal law of love ().
2. There is a higher accountability for God’s people ()
2. There is a higher accountability for God’s people ()
2 For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes.
​
II. we must be real in our actions toward others

II. We must be real in our actions toward others () .

3 If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—
() .
() .

A- Real faith in Christ is unbelievable without practical demonstration (, ).

Real faith in Christ is unbelievable without practical demonstration (, ).
well, 4 doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?
14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have
14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have
faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save
faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save
1. A question that needs answering: ()
anyone?
anyone?
• The question that James asks assumes a negative answer.
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good
deeds, it is dead and useless.
deeds, it is dead and useless.
2. A practical illustration of the problem: ()
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have
good deeds.”
good deeds.”
• The example James gives illustrates a practical problem.
1- Faith that produces no action is of no practical worth ().
Faith that produces no action is of no practical worth (). Real faith is only validated by practical action (). real faith in Christ is made believable when it motivates action ().
2- Real faith is only validated by practical action ().

B- Real faith in Christ is made believable when it motivates action ().

3. A Pointed Indictment: ().
15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing,
15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing,
16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat
16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?
• Prejudicial treatment of others is born from evil motives.
well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing.
well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing.
What good does that do?
What good does that do?
B. Real faith in Christ is exercised when we make an honest
1. the practical test:
1. The practical test:
assessment of people based upon biblical principles ().
a- How do we respond when confronted with practical need?
How do we respond when confronted with practical need?Empty platitudes?empty Platitudes wishing for a better futureEmpty platitudes without empathy or sympathyEmpty promises?Promises of prayer support without follow-throughPromises of help that never materialize
Empty platitudes?
empty Platitudes wishing for a better future
Empty platitudes without empathy or sympathy
Empty promises?
Promises of prayer support without follow-through
Promises of help that never materialize

C. Real faith in Christ Must move beyond mere profession ().

C. Real faith in Christ Must move beyond mere profession
5 Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in
().

().

19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God.
19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God.
this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the
Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in
Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in
Kingdom he promised to those who love him?
terror.
terror.
20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is
20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is
6 But you dishonor the poor! Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag
useless?
useless?
21 Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to
21 Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?
you into court?
be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on
be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on
7 Aren’t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you
the altar?
the altar?
22 You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions
22 You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions
bear?
made his faith complete.
made his faith complete.
23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham
23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham
1. Worldly possessions do not constitute eternal reality ().
believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his
believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his
faith.” He was even called the friend of God.
faith.” He was even called the friend of God.
2. The Stark Reality: we sometimes tend to allow our loyalties to become
24 So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do,
24 So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do,
confused ().
not by faith alone.
not by faith alone.
25 Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be
25 Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and sent them safely away by a different road.
C. Real faith in Christ calls us to live by a higher standard
right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and
right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and
sent them safely away by a different road.
sent them safely away by a different road.
().
26 Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead
26 Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead
8 Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the
without good works.
without good works.
mental assent without obedience is uselessFaith + obedience = real (complete) faith Example of Abraham () ()Example of Rahab () () Body - breath (spirit) = deadFaith - obedience = dead (useless) faith
1. Mental assent without obedience is useless
Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
2. Faith + obedience = real (complete) faith
Example of Abraham () ()
Example of Rahab () ()
3. Body - breath (spirit) = dead
4. Faith - obedience = dead (useless) faith
​
Conclusion:
Conclusion:
Being real in an automated world requires that we understand that real faith requires us to be real in our human relationships. We must live out the faith that we claim to have on the inside. James is given us two practical ways to demonstrate the reality of our faith:
Being real in an automated world requires that we understand that real faith requires us to be real in our human relationships. We must live out the faith that we claim to have on the inside. James is given us two practical ways to demonstrate the reality of our faith:
9 But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You
1. We must be real in our attitudes toward others.
are guilty of breaking the law.
Series Title: Being Real an Automated World
2. we must be real in our actions toward others.
2. we must be real in our actions toward others.
God, through James, has given us these basic principles to guide our actions toward fellow believers, and other people in general. He has also established these two principles as tests by which other people can assess our faith. The world does not need automated believers, who live fake faith. As followers of Christ, we need to remember the words of James and the words of the poet who wrote,
God, through James, has given us these basic principles to guide our actions toward fellow believers, and other people in general. He has also established these two principles as tests by which other people can assess our faith. The world does not need automated believers, who live fake faith. As followers of Christ, we need to remember the words of James and the words of the poet who wrote,
How to be Real in Human Relationships
10 For the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a
“You are writing a gospel,
​
“You are writing a gospel,
a chapter each day.
1 My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?
a chapter each day.
person who has broken all of God’s laws.
by the deeds that you do
by the deeds that you do
2 For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes.
11 For the same God who said, “You must not commit adultery,” also
and the words that you say.
3 If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—well,
and the words that you say.
men read what you write,
4 doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?
men read what you write,
said, “You must not murder.” So if you murder someone but do not
whether faithful or true.
whether faithful or true.
5 Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him?
Say, what is the gospel,
Say, what is the gospel,
6 But you dishonor the poor! Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court?
commit adultery, you have still broken the law.
7 Aren’t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you bear?
according to you?”
according to you?”
12 So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be
The writer could have added another line about the attitudes we express toward others in our daily lives. The question we must answer is this:
8 Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
The writer could have added another line about the attitudes we express toward others in our daily lives. The question we must answer is this:
“Do our attitudes and actions demonstrate that our faith is real?”
9 But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You are guilty of breaking the law.
“Do our attitudes and actions demonstrate that our faith is real?”
judged by the law that sets you free.
It is time that we were painfully honest with ourselves. If there are issues with our attitudes or actions toward others, it is time for us to do business with our Lord. Repentance is not only for unbelievers. Because we are all sinners saved by grace, we are quite often candidates for repentance ourselves. How will you respond to the Holy Spirit of God as he is pointing out issues in your own life? Will you not repent and recommit your life to Christ? Will you not decide to be real in an automated world?
10 For the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a person who has broken all of God’s laws.
It is time that we were painfully honest with ourselves. If there are issues with our attitudes or actions toward others, it is time for us to do business with our Lord. Repentance is not only for unbelievers. Because we are all sinners saved by grace, we are quite often candidates for repentance ourselves. How will you respond to the Holy Spirit of God as he is pointing out issues in your own life? Will you not repent and recommit your life to Christ? Will you not decide to be real in an automated world?
11 For the same God who said, “You must not commit adultery,” also said, “You must not murder.” So if you murder someone but do not commit adultery, you have still broken the law.
13 There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others.
12 So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be judged by the law that sets you free.
But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.
13 There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.
14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone?
1. The higher standard: the royal law of love ().
15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing,
16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?
2. There is a higher accountability for God’s people ()
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
II. we must be real in our actions toward others
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”
19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror.
() .
20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?
21 Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?
A. Real faith in Christ is unbelievable without practical demonstration (, ).
22 You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith complete.
23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” He was even called the friend of God.
14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have
24 So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do, not by faith alone.
faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save
25 Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and sent them safely away by a different road.
26 Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.
anyone?
Introduction:
A- The reality of our faith can be tested.
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good
1- At the end of James chapter 1, the writer established acid tests that are
deeds, it is dead and useless.
designed to expose the genuineness of a believer’s faith.
a- The test of obedience ()
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have
b- The test of true religion ()
B- In chapter two, James instructs us about being real in human
good deeds.”
relationships.
1. Faith that produces no action is of no practical worth ().
1- The principles that he lays out and the searchlight of God’s word
directly into our interaction with other people.
2. Real faith is only validated by practical action ().
a- It is impossible to be properly related to God if we are improperly
related to other people.
2. real faith in Christ is made believable when it motivates action ().
b- When we are improperly related to other people, we give the world
15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing,
opportunity to criticize our Lord and ridicule Christianity.
2- It is imperative that we exercise genuine, biblical Christianity in
16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat
our human relationships in order to be able to proclaim the good
news of Christ effectively.
well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing.
We must be real in our attitudes toward others (). I.A.Real Faith in Christ is incompatible with real discipleship
What good does that do?
().
1 My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?
1. the practical test:
2 For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes.
3 If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—
• How do we respond when confronted with practical need?
well, 4 doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?
• Empty platitudes?
A question that needs answering: () The question that James asks assumes a negative answer. A practical illustration of the problem: () The example James gives illustrates a practical problem.
3. A Pointed Indictment: ().
• empty Platitudes wishing for a better future
Prejudicial treatment of others is born from evil motives.
B. Real faith in Christ is exercised when we make an honest
• Empty platitudes without empathy or sympathy
assessment of people based upon biblical principles ().
• Empty promises?
5 Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in
this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the
• Promises of prayer support without follow-through
Kingdom he promised to those who love him?
6 But you dishonor the poor! Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag
• Promises of help that never materialize
you into court?
7 Aren’t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you
C. Real faith in Christ Must move beyond mere profession
bear?
().
1. Worldly possessions do not constitute eternal reality ().
2. The Stark Reality: we sometimes tend to allow our loyalties to become
19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God.
confused ().
C. Real faith in Christ calls us to live by a higher standard
Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in
().
terror.
8 Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the
Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is
9 But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You
are guilty of breaking the law.
useless?
10 For the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a
21 Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to
person who has broken all of God’s laws.
11 For the same God who said, “You must not commit adultery,” also
be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on
said, “You must not murder.” So if you murder someone but do not
commit adultery, you have still broken the law.
the altar?
12 So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be
22 You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions
judged by the law that sets you free.
13 There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others.
made his faith complete.
But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.
1. The higher standard: the royal law of love ().
23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham
2. There is a higher accountability for God’s people ()
believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his
II. we must be real in our actions toward others
() .
faith.” He was even called the friend of God.
Real faith in Christ is unbelievable without practical demonstration (, ).
14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have
24 So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do,
faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save
not by faith alone.
anyo
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good
25 Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be
deeds, it is dead and useless.
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have
right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and
good deeds.”
sent them safely away by a different road.
Faith that produces no action is of no practical worth (). Real faith is only validated by practical action (). real faith in Christ is made believable when it motivates action ().
15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing,
26 Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead
16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat
well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing.
​
What good does that do?
1. the practical test:
1. mental assent without obedience is useless
How do we respond when confronted with practical need?Empty platitudes?empty Platitudes wishing for a better futureEmpty platitudes without empathy or sympathyEmpty promises?Promises of prayer support without follow-throughPromises of help that never materialize
2. Faith + obedience = real (complete) faith
C. Real faith in Christ Must move beyond mere profession
().
• Example of Abraham () ()
19 You
Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in
• Example of Rahab () ()
terror.
3. Body - breath (spirit) = dead
20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is
useless?
4. Faith - obedience = dead (useless) faith
21 Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to
be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on
Conclusion:
the altar?
Being real in an automated world requires that we understand that real faith requires us to be real in our human relationships. We must live out the faith that we claim to have on the inside. James is given us two practical ways to demonstrate the reality of our faith:
22 You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions
made his faith complete.
1. We must be real in our attitudes toward others.
23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham
believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his
2. we must be real in our actions toward others.
faith.” He was even called the friend of God.
God, through James, has given us these basic principles to guide our actions toward fellow believers, and other people in general. He has also established these two principles as tests by which other people can assess our faith. The world does not need
24 So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do,
not by faith alone.
“You are writing a gospel,
25 Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be
right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and
a chapter each day.
sent them safely away by a different road.
by the deeds that you do
26 Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead
without good works.
and the words that you say.
mental assent without obedience is uselessFaith + obedience = real (complete) faith Example of Abraham () ()Example of Rahab () () Body - breath (spirit) = deadFaith - obedie
Conclusion:
men read what you write,
Being real in an automated world requires that we understand that real faith requires us to be real in our human relationships. We must live out the faith that we claim to have on the inside. James is given us two practical ways to demonstrate the reality of our faith:
whether faithful or true.
1. We must be real in our attitudes toward others.
2. we must be real in our actions toward others.
Say, what is the gospel,
God, through James, has given us these basic principles to guide our actions toward fellow believers, and other people in general. He has also established these two principles as tests by which other people can assess our faith. The world does not need automated believers, who live fake faith. As followers of Christ, we need to remember the words of James and the words of the poet who wrote,
“You are writing a gospel,
according to you?”
a chapter each day.
The writer could have added another line about the attitudes we express toward others in our daily lives. The question we must answer is this:
by the deeds that you do
and the words that you say.
​
men read what you write,
whether faithful or true.
It is time that we were painfully honest with ourselves. If there are issues with our attitudes or actions toward others, it is time for us to do business with our Lord. Repentance is not only for unbelievers. Because we are all sinners saved by grace, we are quite often candidates for repentance ourselves. How will you respond to the Holy Spirit of God as he is pointing out issues in your own life? Will you not repent and recommit your life to Christ? Will you not decide to be real in an automated world?
Say, what is the gospel,
Series Title: Being Real an Automated World
The writer could have added another line about the attitudes we express toward others in our daily lives. The question we must answer is this:
How to be Real in Human Relationships
​
“Do our attitudes and actions demonstrate that our faith is real?”
1 My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?
It is time that we were painfully honest with ourselves. If there are issues with our attitudes or actions toward others, it is time for us to do business with our Lord. Repentance is not only for unbelievers. Because we are all sinners saved by grace, we are quite often candidates for repentance ourselves. How will you respond to the Holy Spirit of God as he is pointing out issues in your own life? Will you not repent and recommit your life to Christ? Will you not decide to be real in an automated world?
2 For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes.
3 If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—well,
4 doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?
5 Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him?
6 But you dishonor the poor! Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court?
7 Aren’t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you bear?
8 Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
9 But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You are guilty of breaking the law.
10 For the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a person who has broken all of God’s laws.
11 For the same God who said, “You must not commit adultery,” also said, “You must not murder.” So if you murder someone but do not commit adultery, you have still broken the law.
12 So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be judged by the law that sets you free.
13 There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others. But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.
14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone?
15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing,
16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good deeds, it is dead and useless.
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have good deeds.” But I say, “How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”
19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror.
20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is useless?
21 Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on the altar?
22 You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions made his faith complete.
23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” He was even called the friend of God.
24 So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do, not by faith alone.
25 Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and sent them safely away by a different road.
26 Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works.
Introduction:
A- The reality of our faith can be tested.
1- At the end of James chapter 1, the writer established acid tests that are
designed to expose the genuineness of a believer’s faith.
a- The test of obedience ()
b- The test of true religion ()
B- In chapter two, James instructs us about being real in human
relationships.
1- The principles that he lays out and the searchlight of God’s word
directly into our interaction with other people.
a- It is impossible to be properly related to God if we are improperly
related to other people.
b- When we are improperly related to other people, we give the world
opportunity to criticize our Lord and ridicule Christianity.
2- It is imperative that we exercise genuine, biblical Christianity in
our human relationships in order to be able to proclaim the good
news of Christ effectively.
I. We must be real in our attitudes toward others ().
A. I.A.Real Faith in Christ is incompatible with real discipleship
().
1 My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?
2 For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes.
3 If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—
well, 4 doesn’t this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?
1. A question that needs answering: ()
• The question that James asks assumes a negative answer.
2. A practical illustration of the problem: ()
• The example James gives illustrates a practical problem.
3. A Pointed Indictment: ().
• Prejudicial treatment of others is born from evil motives.
B. Real faith in Christ is exercised when we make an honest
assessment of people based upon biblical principles ().
5 Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn’t God chosen the poor in
this world to be rich in faith? Aren’t they the ones who will inherit the
Kingdom he promised to those who love him?
6 But you dishonor the poor! Isn’t it the rich who oppress you and drag
you into court?
7 Aren’t they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you
bear?
1. Worldly possessions do not constitute eternal reality ().
2. The Stark Reality: we sometimes tend to allow our loyalties to become
confused ().
C. Real faith in Christ calls us to live by a higher standard
().
8 Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the
Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”
9 But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You
are guilty of breaking the law.
10 For the person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as a
person who has broken all of God’s laws.
11 For the same God who said, “You must not commit adultery,” also
said, “You must not murder.” So if you murder someone but do not
commit adultery, you have still broken the law.
12 So whatever you say or whatever you do, remember that you will be
judged by the law that sets you free.
13 There will be no mercy for those who have not shown mercy to others.
But if you have been merciful, God will be merciful when he judges you.
1. The higher standard: the royal law of love ().
2. There is a higher accountability for God’s people ()
II. we must be real in our actions toward others
() .
A. Real faith in Christ is unbelievable without practical demonstration (, ).
14 What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have
faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save
anyone?
17 So you see, faith by itself isn’t enough. Unless it produces good
deeds, it is dead and useless.
18 Now someone may argue, “Some people have faith; others have
good deeds.”
1. Faith that produces no action is of no practical worth ().
2. Real faith is only validated by practical action ().
2. real faith in Christ is made believable when it motivates action ().
15 Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing,
16 and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat
well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing.
What good does that do?
1. the practical test:
• How do we respond when confronted with practical need?
• Empty platitudes?
• empty Platitudes wishing for a better future
• Empty platitudes without empathy or sympathy
• Empty promises?
• Promises of prayer support without follow-through
• Promises of help that never materialize
C. Real faith in Christ Must move beyond mere profession
().
19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God.
Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in
terror.
20 How foolish! Can’t you see that faith without good deeds is
useless?
21 Don’t you remember that our ancestor Abraham was shown to
be right with God by his actions when he offered his son Isaac on
the altar?
22 You see, his faith and his actions worked together. His actions
made his faith complete.
23 And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: “Abraham
believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his
faith.” He was even called the friend of God.
24 So you see, we are shown to be right with God by what we do,
not by faith alone.
25 Rahab the prostitute is another example. She was shown to be
right with God by her actions when she hid those messengers and
sent them safely away by a different road.
26 Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead
without good works.
1. mental assent without obedience is useless
2. Faith + obedience = real (complete) faith
• Example of Abraham () ()
• Example of Rahab () ()
3. Body - breath (spirit) = dead
4. Faith - obedience = dead (useless) faith
Conclusion:
Being real in an automated world requires that we understand that real faith requires us to be real in our human relationships. We must live out the faith that we claim to have on the inside. James is given us two practical ways to demonstrate the reality of our faith:
1. We must be real in our attitudes toward others.
2. we must be real in our actions toward others.
God, through James, has given us these basic principles to guide our actions toward fellow believers, and other people in general. He has also established these two principles as tests by which other people can assess our faith. The world does not need automated believers, who live fake faith. As followers of Christ, we need to remember the words of James and the words of the poet who wrote,
“You are writing a gospel,
a chapter each day.
by the deeds that you do
and the words that you say.
men read what you write,
whether faithful or true.
Say, what is the gospel,
according to you?”
The writer could have added another line about the attitudes we express toward others in our daily lives. The question we must answer is this:
“Do our attitudes and actions demonstrate that our faith is real?”
It is time that we were painfully honest with ourselves. If there are issues with our attitudes or actions toward others, it is time for us to do business with our Lord. Repentance is not only for unbelievers. Because we are all sinners saved by grace, we are quite often candidates for repentance ourselves. How will you respond to the Holy Spirit of God as he is pointing out issues in your own life? Will you not repent and recommit your life to Christ? Will you not decide to be real in an automated world?
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