Series: James
For the next four months we’ll consider the New Testament book of James’ central theme of living out our faith — being doers of the word and not just hearers. May our hearts and lives be truly changed!
Effective Prayer
by Mike Bergen | October 30, 2022We need God for every aspect of life, and he wants us to pray. Today we look at how we can pray effectively.
In All Seasons, Pray
by Blaine Freidline | October 23, 2022In times of suffering and in times of flourishing — whatever your state — trust in and draw near to God, especially through prayer, personally and with others.
The Problem with Patience
by David Cato | October 16, 2022"Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand."
“Come Now, You Rich!”
by Daniel Vanderhorst | October 9, 2022The ruthless rich James the prophet Prophetic judgment: 3 purposes Accomplishing God’s purpose Comforting God’s people Giving opportunity for self-examination The charges against the rich Hoarding (in the last days) Exploiting workers Luxury and self-indulgence Condemning the righteous to death
You Don’t Know What a Day May Bring
by Johnny Vanderhorst | October 2, 2022In light of our frailty and God’s rule, happy, humble dependence is the only way to live.
The Root Problem
by Mike Bergen | September 25, 2022James 4:1-12 describes the problem of fighting and quarreling among Christians and then points us to our only hope — submission to God.
Real Wisdom
by Johnny Vanderhorst | September 18, 2022"Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace." -- James 3:13-18
No Man Can Tame
by Blaine Freidline | September 4, 2022Your heart is revealed by your tongue; your tongue directs the “course of life” — yours and those around you. It is unbridled and you cannot tame it! Only from above can it be gentled.
Faith Without Works is Useless
by Mike Bergen | August 28, 2022James puts a strong emphasis on the lifestyle of a Christian. In today’s section, he says the actions of a Christian should be consistent with their faith. How true is this in your life?
No Partiality, No Compromise
by Johnny Vanderhorst | August 21, 2022James shows the evil of favoritism, and the seriousness of full submission to King Jesus.
The Deceitfulness of Disobedience
by Mike Bergen | August 14, 2022Obedience is central to the Christian life, but your focus on Jesus determines your heart for obedience. Where is your heart?
Slow to Anger
by John Vanderhorst | August 7, 2022"Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls."
Reward, Temptation, and Reality
by Johnny Vanderhorst | July 31, 2022These are priceless truths in our battle against temptation, and in pursuit of true joy.
The Danger of Wealth
by Mike Bergen | July 24, 2022Let the person who is poor boast in his high position, and let the rich person boast in his low place of humiliation. (Paraphrase of James 1:9-10)
A Whole-Hearted Faith
by Daniel Vanderhorst | July 17, 2022Sense your lack of wisdom? Good news — God gladly gives all that’s needed for a life that pleases him, to those who seek Him with wholehearted faith.
Count it all Joy
by Johnny Vanderhorst | July 10, 2022James sets out aiming to give us an orientation on life that will enable us to face any hardship with poise, and continue on through any struggle with hope.