From James 2:14-26
There is only one requirement for eternal salvation, belief in Jesus Christ the Son of God, in His death, and in His resurrection. We do nothing to earn our salvation, we don’t have to be good enough, we don’t have to do enough good deeds, there isn’t some moral quota we have to fill – we are saved by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ alone.
That isn’t to say that our actions don’t look different as a result.
It’s critically important that we don’t fall into the trap of thinking we have to be good enough to earn our salvation, but James also reminds us that our genuine faith will play out in the real world. If we believe in God the Father almighty, we believe that He loves us so deeply that He sent Jesus to die for us, and we believe that His Word is true and good – the natural response is obedience. The examples that James uses are example of people who had faith and who’s faith was evidenced by their actions. For some more mundane examples we can think about it this way.
If you genuinely believe that something is going to explode, then you’re going to make sure you’re clear of the blast zone.
If you genuinely believe that Josh Allen is the best quarterback in the NFL, then you’re going to draft him early for your fantasy team.
If you genuinely believe that a certain food is good for you, then you’re going to eat it. If you genuinely believe that a certain food is bad for you, then you’re going to avoid it.
If you genuinely believe that Jesus is Lord, then you’re going to be obedient to His Word.
Focus on God
We are reminded in these verses that God graciously forgives us based on grace and faith alone.
Function in Our Lives
We are encouraged to live out our faith through our thoughts, words, and actions.
Topics to Pray About
- Thank Jesus for His unconditional love for us.
- Confess to God the times where you don’t let your faith impact your daily life.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to conform you to Christ.
In His Service,
J. LeBorious