You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder. James 2:19
At one point or another, we have run into someone that says….”yeah, I’m a Christian…I believe in God!” and for most….that is where it ends. I have so much pity for people like this because there is so much more! If pressed….a lot of them will also say…”yes, I even believe in Jesus”….Great! But to historically believe that a man named Jesus walked the earth, was a Jewish carpenter’s son, and did some miracles and died on a cross…still doesn’t constitute salvation, or being a Christ Follower.
“Oh, but I have been baptized” Awesome!
I just want to say…..But you don’t love people, you don’t hurt at injustice, you aren’t moved at the things that hurt God. You flirt with women, you cuss like a sailor, you slander, steal from your work, you don’t care for your family and you drink way to much.
As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead. James 2:26
But we also know that;
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. Ephesians 2:8-9
Absolutely…..not by works (or deeds) are we saved….but works and deeds ARE a demonstration of the faith that saves us.
Guys…this is a tricky verse…because I don’t believe that we are here to challenge and condemn every person who believes they are saved but are not, some maybe. But we can’t be throwing this verse around at them unless you have a platform and the tact to do it. While sharing truth, it is to be done in love….and not condemnation. We may feel the pressure to convert….or to “save” one of our friends, but only God can do that….he may choose to use us, so be ready.
I believe we are to love, instruct, pray for and show true faith, including works.
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2 comments:
but that verse does rightly point out that works are necessary for salvation!!
The idea that works saves us, in and of itself cheapens the death of Christ on the Cross.
Works are a byproduct, a fruit, an obedience issue. I believe James points out that faith, without the product of faith, is no faith at all. (Saving Faith requires God-honoring action). It goes along with action. James goes on to talk about Abraham's faith. He had faith, but his willingness to sacrifice his son on the altar was faith in action. God desires that from us.
He also says "You have faith; I have deeds" clearly setting up that these two are at odds apart from each other.
"Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds." (Fruit)
I hope that we are merely talking semantics and you aren't relying on your works FOR salvation.
There is no other name under heaven by which men are saved....but Jesus.
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