Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
This coming Lord’s Day we will be resuming our study of The Epistle of James, and our text will be James 1:27 and 4:4-10. These passages are very much related as they both deal with the third of three tests of pure religion, or authentic faith in Christ, which James introduces in 1:26-27. As we have already observed, the first test is that of a controlled tongue. The second test is that of a compassionate heart. Now James identifies the third indicator of a vibrant faith in Christ as the determination to “keep oneself unstained by the world” (1:27). We might refer to this as the test of a pure life.
As with the first two tests, James further explains this exhortation later in the Epistle. The words of 4:4-10 are meant to clarify and apply what it means to refuse to be polluted and stained by the “world.” And let me warn you. What you will read in chapter 4 is frightening. For example, he says that, “friendship with the world is enmity with God . . . . Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God” (v. 4). However, there is also the triumphant note of great hope and assurance found here as well—“But he gives more grace” (v. 6).
As always, let me encourage you to spend some time in these passages between now and Sunday. Pray through these inspired words as you read them, and ask the Lord to grant us the illuminating power of His Spirit as we seek to do His will.
Thank you for your faithful prayers for the preaching of God’s Word, and I can’t wait to see you on Sunday morning!
I love you all,
Mike
PS: I am so greatful for our dear brother Rev. Jim Daughtry who preached in my absence last Lord’s Day. Thank you Jim for your ministry to our people and for faithfully delivering the Word!