I know today we live in a society that looks at Christianity in the wrong way. Either because we have not shown the love of God how he intended to for us to show it. But, how do the people that live a life so call Christianity. How do we view our own beliefs? Are we paying attention to what God is saying and showing us?

James began chapter 1 explaining how a believer should view trials and temptations. In this section, we learn how a believer should view God’s Word. Verses 19-27 continue the focus on the “word of truth” mentioned in verse 18.


How is the righteousness of God produced in our lives according to vv. 19-20? By being quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger. Patience & listening is key in producing righteousness. What is the significance of the Word in our lives according to verses 21-22? It has the power to save us & direct our actions.

Contrast a “hearer” and “doer” according to verse 22-25: - “Hearer” = A person who is deceived, forgetful, and unchanging. - “Doer” = A person who sees what needs to be done and acts on it. What actions describe genuine religion (vv. 26-27)?

Careful with what one says, visits orphans & widows, and avoids worldliness.
Application
We see in this section a picture of genuine Christianity. Genuine believers do not just hear what God says, they take it to heart and obey.
➢ Be patient and listen – mediate/focus on the Word.
➢ Receive the Word – embrace what it says.
➢ Follow through with action – do what it says.

Growing in our knowledge of God’s Word is very important. However, if your idea of Christianity is simply knowing God’s Word without obeying what it says, then your faith is not giving evidence that it is genuine. Christianity involves assisting the needs of others and demonstrating godliness. When you examine your life, is it clear that your faith is genuine? How can you be a better “doer” of the Word?