James chapter 2 is one of those sections in scripture that hits right to the core of what it means to follow Jesus. I could drop a pin on any verse and hear the Holy Spirit's voice and conviction. Yesterday's lesson was a challenge and a gracious restoration.
James continues his letter to the early church by addressing the Royal Law, YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF. Leviticus 19:18 Mark 12:31 James 2:8 This is the Royal Law because it is from the King of the Kingdom, Jesus. Just reading these words, it sounds simple enough, love everyone. However, James gives us examples on how to do it. When he does, I am convicted and have to examine myself. Do I love my neighbor the same way I love myself? The simple answer is, No.
Starting back in James 1:27 -Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. Real faith. A genuine walk with the LORD means I care for those around me that are without support. They may be alone. They need financial support. They may need encouraging. If my faith in Jesus is real, I will notice them and will help them.
He continues by addressing another way we can demonstrate our love for Him and loving others. We will not be prejudice. Or the way James says it, show an attitude of personal favoritism. James 2:1 Prejudice can come in many forms. Outward appearance is just one of them. We can judge someone by where they live, their education, their hobbies, their family, or their political views, the list is endless. But, it can get really dangerous when we judge them by their sin, lifestyle, or choices. Dangerous because pride makes us justified by judging them. And we certainly shouldn't love them. Regardless of any of that, I am commanded love everyone. Love meaning that I am kind, I pray for them, I help them if I can. I do not judge, spew hate, ignore them, or belittle them. Loving them is what I will do if my faith is real!
James goes even farther to say that real faith without works is dead. Just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead. Tying all this together, James is driving home the point that we demonstrate our faith by following the Royal Law. By loving one another, our obedience to Jesus will be evident in our works and by the fruit that it bears. We are not justified by our works but by faith; but our works are the result of our faith. Jesus says that the greatest command is to love HIM and love one another. And by this all people will know that we are His disciples: if you have love for one another.”
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