James 2:1-10 14-18 —Showing partiality is a sin, for true faith
issues in good deeds.
This passages in context condemns the showing of
partiality to the rich and the humiliation of the poor (Vv.1-5) because it is a
violation of the law of love, partiality is a sin (Vv.8-10).
Verses 14-18 refer to faith as intellectual assent
only which does not issue in deeds of compassion. True faith expresses itself
in deeds of live. This harmonizes with Paul’s teaching that faith works through
love. Faith and works are inseparable. Since you have faith it will be
demonstrated by works to the neighbor in love.
Let’s face it; we are profit-oriented people. We
ask, “What will we get out of it?” What is there to gain?” James asks, what
good is it to have faith but not works. If a needy person is given only empty
words and not physical help, what good will the words do? The Christian faith
must be of some value, some help to others. Otherwise, it is a useless,
profitless religious experience, shallow and of little use.[2]
Favoritism
is forbidden – faith and deeds are explained. It’s quite easy to say, “I
believe,” “I have faith,” “I trust,” etc. Too often these are empty words and
phrases. James explains that the sign of a genuine faith is shown in deeds. The
key verse is verse 17, “In the same way,
faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
A prayer for guidance in our calling – Lord God, You have called
Your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet
untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage,
not knowing where we go but only that Your hand is leading us and Your love
supporting us; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. [3]– 02 September, 2021
[1] The Crucifixion Schnorr von Carolsfeld woodcut copyright © from WELS used with permission for personal and congregational use
[2] Lectionary Preaching Workbook, John Brokhoff © 1981 CSS Publishing, Lima, OH
[3] Collect for guidance in our calling, Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St. Louis
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