Recorded 7/12/2026

James 2: 14-26 “Seeking Wisdom in Works, Faith, and Justification."

1. Seeking Wisdom in Faith and Works:
2. Seeking Wisdom in Justification:

By the power of God’s Spirit, you and I can cast away all sin of partiality and favoritism and look at all people the way God sees them, in need of a savior. Every mission trip you will ever go on is premised on this point. How do we balance faith and works?

James is saying that a person who says he has faith but shows no works “keeps on not showing works.” People who are indwelt by the Holy Spirit are compelled to good works by God’s Spirit. Does our proclamation of faith in Jesus match our actions?

It is not works or faith, it is works and faith,and James is not saying that works brings about salvation. It is the proof of real faith, live faith versus dead faith, which isn’t really faith at all. James is not here discussing “works” (ceremonial works) as a means of salvation as Paul in Gal 3; Rom 4, but works as proof of faith.

It is not “be made righteous” but “shown to be righteous.” James is discussing the proof of faith, not the initial act of being set right with

God (Paul’s idea in Rom 4:1-10).

How can we demonstrate faith and works?

1. Actively display a commitment to serving others.
2. Keep praying and stay obedient
3. Share the Gospel Boldly
4. Collaborate with Faithful Ministry Partners.

Ecclesiastes 4:9 reminds us, “Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor.” Working alongside others not only strengthens your faith but also spreads God’s love to even more people.