Matt Nelson - August 13, 2023
Evidence of Obedience
BOOK OF JAMES Evidence of Obedience 8.13.23 Romans 4:1-3 What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, discovered in this matter? 2 If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about—but not before God. 3 What does Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” James 2:21-24 21 Was not our father Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. 23 And the scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called God’s friend. 24 You see that a person is considered righteous by what they do and not by faith alone. The teachings of Jesus are filled with God’s overwhelming, amazing grace and a radical call to obedience and discipleship. James’ Call to Obedience: The Motivation for Obedience James 1:25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do. 2. The Freedom of Obedience According to scripture, freedom is not the absence of constraint, but rather, the right constraints that enable us to flourish as God designed. 3. The Evidence of Obedience A life of obedience always moves God’s people toward the margins of society. Our works should move us toward the defenseless, vulnerable, and powerless. James 2:14-17 14 What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? 15 Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.