James 1:19-27
1. We began by talking about the content of v. 19-21.
Q: James begins these verses with, “Know this, my beloved brothers…”. Why does knowing that what is being said is rooted in love & care matter?
Q: Then we see the encouragement from James to be quick to listen to the Word of God, the truth of God. How has hearing God’s Word propelled you towards holiness?
Q: In v. 20 we see that anger prevents us from pursuing righteousness. Anger has real effects. Why do anger and righteousness oppose one another?
Q: We then talked about sin & the need to repent. Pastor Nate challenged us to not just be remorseful over sin, but to repent of it. Why is remorse not enough when dealing with sin?
Q: In v. 21, it talks about receiving the Word with meekness. We are to sit under the Scriptures’ teachings. Pastor Nate mentioned reading Job 38-42:6 to give him perspective as he prepares to read God’s Word. What has helped you to submit yourself to God’s Word?
2. We then looked at v. 22-25 & the need to be doers of the Word.
Q: Holiness isn’t in listening alone, but in responding accordingly. The trap to be “hearers only” was very real when James wrote & is still there today. What are examples of being a “hearer only” today?
Q: In v. 25 we read that the one who hears & does is blessed. How has obedience to God led to blessing/satisfaction in your life?
Q: James says that God’s Word provides freedom. John agrees (1 John 5:3). If you believe this to be true, how does that change the way you treat the Bible?
Q: The doer of the Word perseveres in the Scriptures (consistent intake), remembers the Scriptures (memorizes) & applies the Scriptures. Which of these is the most challenging for you?
3. Finally, we ended with the 3 fold test of v. 26-27.
Q: We are to examine our speech in v. 26. How does speech reveal our values & beliefs?
Q: We are also to consider our compassion towards the powerless in v. 27. What are tangible ways that you can be involved & show compassion to those around you & around the world?
Q: Finally, we are to consider our purity. What are ways that you could take it seriously to “keep oneself unstained from the world”?