James: Week 5

Write you own definition of faith.

How is keeping the law different from faith-based works of righteousness?

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What are some statements we say that sound Christian without thinking or without acting on them?

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“Intellectual assent to correct doctrine isn’t salvation.”

What does this statement mean?

What’s your reaction to James’s statement that even demons believe in God (v. 19)?

What do you think it means for demons to shudder?

How does it affect

How does this reality convict us about the nature of saving faith and works?

How do the examples of Abraham and Rahab, who seemed to be polar opposites in every earthly way, encourage you in your faith?

Part 1: Faith

Examine

List the names of the individuals who acted in faith?

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How do these verses illustrate the link between faith and works?

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How do these verses indicate about the life of a Christian?

Paul said we aren’t saved by works, but we’re saved for works. Works Matter.

James said even demons know the truth about God. They could give all the right Sunday School answers. But they don’t faithfully live for Him as Savior and Lord. They don’t submit to His authority in their lives. Theirs is empty, dead faith. It’s mere belief. Head knowledge doesn’t save you. It doesn’t make you a Christian. Real faith is demonstrated in real action. “Faith works.”

Look back at the definition of faith you wrote at the beginning of today’s personal study. Would you change anything?

Part 2: Works

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What did each person in this parable do? Priest, Levite, Samaritan.

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What surprising, sobering connection did Jesus make between the way we treat other people and our relationship with Him?

How do you know that Jesus wasn’t teaching works-based salvation?

Use the following chart to reflect on the ways our faith influences our actions.

I Believe- Identify commands or truth from Scripture about God or the Christian Life.

So I will- Identify ways you can express faith through your actions.

And I won’t- Identify the opposite action or nonaction.

I believe so I will and I won’t