James 2:14-26

• James 2:14 – This is a rhetorical question.
• James 2:18 – If I truly have faith, it changes how I live.
• James 2:19 – Compare Luke 4:33; Acts 19:15. The demons believe in God also!
• James 2:21-24 – Exhibit A: Abraham
  • Galatians 3:7
  • Abraham was declared righteous because of his works.
  • Titus 3:7; Romans 5:9; I Corinthians 6:11
  • Genesis 22:1-3, 10-12, 15-18
  • Hebrews 11:17 “by faith” vs James 2:21 “by works.” Two ways of describing the same event.
• James 2:25 – Exhibit B: Rahab
  • Hebrews 11:31
  • Joshua 2:1-6 – Rahab was commended for welcoming the spies in peace – not for lying.
  • Joshua 2:8-11

But what about Romans 4?

• Romans 4:1-8
• Romans is using the word “works” in a different way than James 2.
• Romans 4: Works = actions which allow one to “boast” about what he is “due.”
  • Romans 3:23
  • None of us are saved from being perfect!
• James 2: Works = obedient actions which make faith come alive.

Develop a faith that works!

• Hebrews 11:7-9, 23-25, 30
• Joshua 6:1-5, 20 – They did these things by faith.
• Ephesians 2:8 ➡ I Peter 3:21