Christianity the Show-Me Religion “But someone will say, ‘You have faith, and I have works.’ Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” (James 2:18) Graphic is bottom portion of a license plate from the state of Missouri James challenges US to back up our claims in religion up with deeds. Context: A discussion of the necessity of obedience to be justified in the sight of God One can’t prove himself worthy, without works! In effect, James says to those who make claims about their faith -"show me". Based on a Sermon outline borrowed from Edward O. Bragwell, Sr.

If you claim to be Religious By Controlling your Tongue (1:19,26) By Doing the Word of God (1:21-25) By Practicing Pure Religion (1:27) The Claim: (James 1:26), “If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one's religion is useless.” By controlling your tongue. (I: 19,26). By doing the word (of God). (1:21-25). By practicing pure religion (positively and negatively) 1. Doing good "Visit orphans and widows“ (Many other commands as well) 2. Not doing evil “Keep oneself unspotted from world." (Many prohibited sins)

If you claim to have Faith Not like the person who says, “…be warmed and filled” (2:14-17), or like the demons (2:19) But like Abraham & Rahab (2:21-26) The Claim: (James 2:18-20), “But someone will say, ‘You have faith, and I have works.’ Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! 20 But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?” NOT LIKE 1. The person who says, "Be warmed and filled" (2:14-17) 2. The demons (2:19) LIKE 1. Abraham (2:21-24) 2. Rahab (2:25-26) 3. The list in Hebrews 11

If you claim Wisdom & Understanding By Showing the meekness of wisdom (3:13) By showing wisdom from above rather than beneath (3:14-18) The Claim: (James 3:13), “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.” By showing the meekness of wisdom (3:13) 1. Not overly ambitious to be teachers (3: 1-12) 2. Not using knowledge for self promotion and boasting (3:14) By showing the wisdom from above rather than beneath. (3:14-18). Characteristics of wisdom from above, Pure, Peaceable, Gentle, Merciful, Forbearing, Firm (but never brash or boastful) Easily entreated (rather than rigid and unbending), unyielding to error, but easily entreated (willing to yield) when possible without compromising truth

Conclusion We should always back our claims of faithfulness with obedience Let us properly show that we are really religious, faithful and wise! One final application: Our quarterly singing coming up. The last singing in November was not well attended by the members here. There were as many visitors in the congregation as members. (And not because there were SO MANY visitors) Do you think that the work of this congregation is important? Do you value the times we have to worship and Praise God in song? Then this is an opportunity to SHOW ME, and your BRETHREN that you do!