Chad Coley
Series In James/ Faith That Works
Receiving The Word
James 1:19-21
26 April 2020
James now transitions from admonition and exhortation to the Word of God as a subject for consideration. He transitions to the Word of Truth so that we can live our lives in response. James says that the Word of God plays a key role in our spiritual growth. And he refers to 3 attitudes we must have towards the Word.
We must receive the Word in submission (v. 19). James wants us to know that God's Word is the way to our fellowship with God, and our sanctification. He wants us to be eager to receive the Word, careful to restrain our reactions, and humble to receive correction.
We must receive the Word in repentance (v. 20). Following our own desires cannot produce godliness.
We must receive the Word in humility (v. 21). The main point James is making is that we need to put away sin so we can grow. This is willing repentance and change of affections to conform with the Word of God. We can gladly welcome the Word of God, through which Christ saves us.
The word is vital to who we are. It saves us and sanctifies us. May we have the right attitudes towards the word.