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This is the second sermon in our term 3 series on the book of James. This sermon is “Real Faith: is Steadfast”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: James 1:9-18
This is the second sermon in our term 3 series on the book of James. This sermon is “Real Faith: is Steadfast”. Preacher: The Rev’d Michael Calder. Bible Reading: James 1:9-18
DOWNLOAD the Small Group Questions, Going Deeper, and Sermon Transcript (PDF).
Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. But the rich should take pride in their humiliation – since they will pass away like a wild flower. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business.
Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
When tempted, no one should say, ‘God is tempting me.’ For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.
CONNECT: What is one area of challenge that you need to seek Godʼs wisdom?
WARM-UP
If you were to ask people on your frontlines the question, “what is wrong with the world?” How do you think they would respond?
Read James 1:9-12
What sort of humble circumstances is James referring to here? Where might we see this?
What ʻhigh positionʼ can these people delight and take pride in? How can we have assurance that no matter our circumstances, we too share in this?
How can earthly riches be dangerous to our spiritual life? What sort of ʻhumiliationʼ should the rich person take pride in? In what ways is this counter-cultural?
Which group do you identify with at the moment? What practical things can help you remember all the riches that you have in Christ that are hidden at the moment?
When the world sees someone under trial, how might this shape their thoughts about God? Are these inline with Godʼs character and actions or not?
What practises or people have helped you persevere through trials? What is the ʻcrown of lifeʼ that is promised? While we wait for this, what comfort can we experience in this life now?
Read James 1:13-18
Where does temptation come from? Why doesnʼt God have anything to do with evil? How is this of great assurance to us?
In your personal life, is there a pattern that leads to sin? What is the danger if a lifestyle of sin goes unchecked? What is the certain hope for the sinner when they repent?
What type of things does God give? What things can deceive us from this?
Why is it good news for us that God does not change? What does it mean for us to be a ʻfirstfruitʼ?
How does seeing all the riches that we have in Christ change the way we face possessions, trials, and temptations?
APPLY: What habits or patterns can help you keep your mind on all that we have in Christ?
Gracious God, we thank you that you have saved us from death to life with you. Help us in trials and temptations to look to you for help, to ask you for wisdom, and grow in you. In Jesusʼ Name, Amen.
On Your Frontline This Week: Have you ever asked a friend or colleague - do you think Jesus is a game changer? Maybe try it this week and invite them to the Public Lecture.
Listen, Watch, and Read:
SERIES Resources:
Series Overview: Booklet (and Audiobook)
Commentary: James: The Wisdom of the Brother of Jesus (by John Dickson)
Course: Introduction to James
Each week St Bart’s Kids and CHARGE Youth provides resources for you to use at home. Join the livestream and then spend 30 minutes to work through these together.
Families: Read, Chat, Do, and Pray
High School: CHARGE Discussion Questions
Kids’ Talk: Watch the Kids’ Talk
eBook: Watch the eBook
Listen to the latest sermons and talks from St Bart's Anglican Church located in Toowoomba, Australia. Visit www.stbarts.com.au for the latest news and information.