James 2:14-26
There is an old, often repeated, story that is told about fishermen. The fishermen in this certain town would gather together regularly and talk about fishing. They would pray for days when they could go fishing. Then they would tell each other about all the great tools that they had for fishing. Some would even write books on fish and fishing, and those who wrote the books would often hold large conferences and talk about how to fish. One day a young man decided to go out to the river and fish. He only had a simple pole and line with a simple hook and bait. After a number of attempts he finally landed a fish. As he brought the fish home everyone was asking him how he caught the fish. His reply was simple and to the point. He said, “I just got tired of talking about fishing and decided to give it a try.” In the closing verses of James 2 we see James, the author, illustrate what the activity of real faith looks like. He begins by asking a question about someone who claims to have faith but does not back it up with action (14). He then follows that key question with four examples of faith in action. First, faith displays its reality by serving the needs of others (15-17). Next, James points out that faith serves God because even the demons believe but do not submit and serve Him (18-19). Third, through the example of Abraham we see that faith serves God by not questioning His direction or provision (20-24). Finally, the life of Rahab reminds us that faith in God is displayed by serving others who follow God regardless of the potential personal cost (25-26). Remember a dry line never catches fish. People like fish are only attracted to the lure of our faith that is displayed right in front of them.
For more see JAMES
There is an old, often repeated, story that is told about fishermen. The fishermen in this certain town would gather together regularly and talk about fishing. They would pray for days when they could go fishing. Then they would tell each other about all the great tools that they had for fishing. Some would even write books on fish and fishing, and those who wrote the books would often hold large conferences and talk about how to fish. One day a young man decided to go out to the river and fish. He only had a simple pole and line with a simple hook and bait. After a number of attempts he finally landed a fish. As he brought the fish home everyone was asking him how he caught the fish. His reply was simple and to the point. He said, “I just got tired of talking about fishing and decided to give it a try.” In the closing verses of James 2 we see James, the author, illustrate what the activity of real faith looks like. He begins by asking a question about someone who claims to have faith but does not back it up with action (14). He then follows that key question with four examples of faith in action. First, faith displays its reality by serving the needs of others (15-17). Next, James points out that faith serves God because even the demons believe but do not submit and serve Him (18-19). Third, through the example of Abraham we see that faith serves God by not questioning His direction or provision (20-24). Finally, the life of Rahab reminds us that faith in God is displayed by serving others who follow God regardless of the potential personal cost (25-26). Remember a dry line never catches fish. People like fish are only attracted to the lure of our faith that is displayed right in front of them.
For more see JAMES
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