Today’s scripture: James 2:14-17
The next couple of days are going to cover some rather controversial verses.
James makes quite an argument about faith vs. works, and some say he
contradicts other passages that speak to our being saved by faith in Jesus
Christ (see Romans 3:21-28; 5:1-3; Eph. 2:8-9). Salvation does come through
faith in Jesus Christ and the belief and acceptance of His death, burial, and
resurrection.
But James adds a dimension: The person who has true faith in Jesus, who has
committed himself to Him, demonstrates that faith through service. Just as
Jesus Himself served.
This means taking action against those who exploit others. I have friends who
are active in the fight against sex trafficking. They are the hands and feet of
Jesus as they go into the bowels of some cities to serve those forced into
prostitution.
This also means serving the “least of these” (Matt. 25:34-46). Helping out at a
soup kitchen. Volunteering at a local prison. Giving to organizations that
provide food and shelter for the disenfranchised.
I believe a person is saved through faith. Forgiveness of sins and promise of
eternal life comes through faith in Jesus Christ. But if she stops there, her
faith doesn’t grow. If she’s not demonstrating her faith through service, her
faith can become stagnant.
Don’t let your faith “die.” Go out and do something. Let the world see Jesus
Christ through what you do to serve others.
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