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A Family of believers making disciples who influence the world by becoming daily followers of Christ.
Episodes
Wednesday Nov 07, 2018
Wednesday Nov 07, 2018
Walk This Way
“How You Treat People Matters”
(James 2:1-13)
“My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism” (James 2:1).
In a world full of trials and temptations, James teaches believers that how we treat each other matters. Our faith in Jesus leads us to treat others like He treated us: with great love and mercy! How well are you treating other people? Is what you believe about Jesus visible in how you serve others?
- Get the point up front: how you treat people matters (2:1-4)!
- Notice, James frames the issue of favoritism in relationship to who Jesus is and what he has done for us.
- James commands believers to cross social/cultural lines.
- James offers a vivid illustration and explanation of his point.
- Be rich in faith, not favoritism (2:5-7)...
- Check how you treat poor people. Refuse to dishonor/exploit the poor.
- Rich people may trust their resources (wealth, power, access).
- Does God play favorites between the poor and rich?
- “Chosen...poor in world’s eyes...to be rich in faith...inherit the kingdom”
- Which way is it better to be rich: in faith or otherwise?
- Learn to love well (2:8-11; Lev.19:18/Mt.22:39)...
- Do right! Love your neighbor as yourself (echos Jesus & Moses).
- We are all rebellious lawbreakers changed by God’s love and grace.
- Learning to love people beyond your group is spiritual growth- it is
- God’s work in our lives! Learning to love well is gospel work.
- Mercy triumphs (2:12-13)!
- Believers answer for how we treat people.
- Show no mercy, get no mercy.
- Remember what Jesus taught: “Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy” (Mt.5:7).
- Critical decision: Ask God for mercy and He gives it. So, give people the mercy you received freely & undeservedly!
Wednesday Nov 07, 2018
Wednesday Nov 07, 2018
Walk This Way
“Desire a Life of Integrity”
(James 1:19-26)
James teaches us how to live by faith in Jesus through the trials and temptations of life. He challenges us to desire a life of integrity. Our new life in Christ is best seen when we: listen well, manage strong emotions, obey the Word, and serve others in need.
- Respectful listening (1:19a)-
- Builds relationships.
- Seeks to understand.
- Creates space and pace.
- Dealing well with strong emotions (1:19b-21a)-
- Choosing to have a sloooow fuse...
- Choosing to discard (“rid”) unhelpful behaviors/attitudes.
- Putting the Word into practice (1:21b-25)-
- Humbly accept the Word (listen w/ a bias to obey)...
- The Word rescues/saves us.
- The Word frees us.
- The Word guides us.
- Serving others in need (1:26-27)-
- Closely guard your words (they reflect your heart).
- Changed lives help others.
- We serve the most vulnerable.
- This way of life best reflects Jesus’ Way.
Tuesday Nov 06, 2018
Tuesday Nov 06, 2018
Tuesday Nov 06, 2018
Tuesday Nov 06, 2018
Tuesday Nov 06, 2018
Tuesday Nov 06, 2018