Chad Coley
Series In James/ Faith That Works
Respond To The Word
James 1:22-25
3 May 2020
James has been challenging us to live out the faith that we claim to have. In the last few verses, James has exhorted us to receive the Word. Today, in the text before us, he exhorts us to respond to the Word. There is a response required of us, to continually strive to be doers of the Word (v. 21 - 22a). There must be an active obedience to what we hear, else our growth in sanctification is hindered.
The danger to be avoided is that of being a hearer only (v. 22b - 24). The risk is that we think that the Word doesn't apply to us, or that we do not obey what it says. But let us instead grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ by living out His Word. When we see our sins, let us not forget that we need God's help.
There is a blessing to be gained for those who hear and do the Word of God (v. 25). God's Word is sufficient for our lives, and obeying it brings us freedom from sin. The mature Christian is someone who abides by the truth. Obedience brings assurance and joy.