For many, James is the most troubling book in the New Testament. It confounds them because they think James says that works is an integral part of salvation. And it does. But not like they think. James argues that works are a product of saving faith, not the cause of it.
We know (at least I do) many who think that if they are “good enough” or “religious enough”, God will allow them into heaven. How many times have you heard, “I think God will balance my good works against my bad works, and if I did enough good works, God will let me into heaven”? But it doesn’t work that way. The Scriptures are clear, salvation is by faith alone in Jesus’ shed blood and substitutionary sacrifice on the cross. Ephesians 2:8,9 clearly tell us that we have been saved by grace alone (For by grace you have been saved through faith. And it is not from yourselves – it is the gift of God. It is not based on deeds, so that no one may boast. TLV).
So what is James talking about in James 2:14-18? What does he mean, “Can faith alone save him”?
In the context of James’ discussion, he is talking about the sufficiency of faith alone to show others the work of Christ in us. What does he say? “What good does it do..?” What good indeed. Jesus instructs us to emulate him. How are we to do this? By faith. What does this faith manifest? If it doesn’t manifest anything, James says it’s worthless. Faith moves. Faith acts. Faith isn’t just a mental exercise.
Jesus tells us, “This is my commandment, that you love one another just as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this: that he lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you”.
Do you see the connection? James is asking how can we call ourselves followers of Jesus if we neglect the basic necessities of our own brothers (in modern thinking that would be members of our own church)? So, what is our answer?
Do we pass by those who are in a lower economic station than us? (Guilty)
Do we cringe when we see “that guy” that always seems to have a need of some type? (Guilty)
How about the sick? (Guilty)
How about the widows and orphans? (Guilty) (My inclusion of widows and orphans may seem out of the blue, but re-read your bible, both parts, and see how often God talks about taking care of them. You’ll be surprised.)
My inclusion of widows and orphans may seem out of the blue, but re-read your bible, both parts, and see how often God talks about taking care of them. You’ll be surprised.
James calls us to show the love of Jesus, and our very salvation, by our works. In chapter 2, I believe “works” is defined as taking care of our fellow believers. I’ll be the first to admit that I have done a lousy job. I’m so glad that God permits repentance and a chance to do things I’ve left undone. And I think, that too, is a part of what James is telling us. If we can’t right a wrong, why mention it? Just to make us feel bad? No, it is to give us a chance to correct an error.
Lastly, don’t fall into the trap of thinking that there must be a church ministry for <insert need here>, there doesn’t. Ministry is ALL of our responsibility.
Do you know of someone in the hospital? Go see them.
Do you know someone who is having.., say, car problems? You help them out.
Someone that can’t cover their bills? Step up, brother.
Someone one just going through a hard time? Be a shoulder to lean on. (In most cases, they don’t want advice, they want a compassionate ear, do you have one?)
If you are willing to be available, God will show you the need. And when you step up to help meet that need, the joy you receive will make you wonder why you hadn’t done it earlier.
Lets get busy!
Maranatha!
Yavoh!
Scott's Ramblings 