Sermon Summary: James 2:14-26 – Faith and Works
Title: Do We Have Righteous Works?
Introduction:
James presents a challenge to believers, asking if their faith is genuine. He emphasizes that faith without deeds is dead and provides examples from Scripture to illustrate this truth. This sermon explores the relationship between faith and works and how our actions reflect the depth of our belief in Christ.
Key Points:
1. Faith Without Works Is Dead (James 2:14-17)
- James asks, “What good is it if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them?”
- If a believer encounters someone in need but offers only words without action, their faith is meaningless.
- True faith expresses itself in action.
- Jesus taught in Matthew 5:16, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
- Faith is not just believing but producing fruit that proves its existence.
2. The Relationship Between Faith and Deeds (James 2:18-19)
- James anticipates an argument: “You have faith; I have deeds.” But he counters, saying faith is demonstrated through action.
- Even demons believe in God—and they shudder. But their belief does not lead to salvation because it lacks obedience.
- Paul in Ephesians 2:8-10 affirms that salvation is by grace through faith—but that we are also “created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
- True faith results in obedience to God’s commands.
3. Biblical Examples of Faith in Action (James 2:20-25)
A. Abraham’s Faith Demonstrated Through Works
- Abraham was called righteous when he offered Isaac on the altar.
- His faith and his deeds worked together; his faith was made complete by what he did.
- Because of his obedience, Abraham became known as God’s friend and received God’s promises.
B. Rahab’s Faith Demonstrated Through Works
- Rahab, a prostitute, hid Israelite spies, risking her life because she believed in the God of Israel.
- Her faith led her to action, and she was rewarded with salvation.
- She became part of Jesus’ lineage (Matthew 1:5-6), demonstrating that faith can transform lives, regardless of past circumstances.
4. Conclusion: Faith Without Works Is Dead (James 2:26)
- Just as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is lifeless.
- Jesus warned in Matthew 7:21-23 that many will claim faith but will be turned away because they did not live in obedience to God.
- Paul urges believers in 2 Corinthians 13:5 to examine themselves to see if their faith is genuine.
- A real, saving faith will manifest in good works, not as a requirement for salvation but as evidence of it.
Final Reflection:
- Is your faith alive? Do your actions reflect a real, obedient faith in Christ?
- We are not saved by works, but true salvation always results in works that glorify God.
- Let’s be doers of the Word, not just hearers (James 1:22), and live out a faith that is active and transformative.
Closing Prayer:
Lord, help us to live out our faith in ways that glorify You. Give us a heart that listens to Your Spirit and a willingness to act in obedience. May our faith be real, producing good works that reflect Your love. In Jesus’ name, Amen.