As we continue our series on Obedience, today, we will look into how to obey in the Word.
James 1:19-25
19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry,20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. 22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.
Obedience in the Last Days
Recap:
1. The Nature of Obedience: Our Existence
2. The Motive for Obedience: Our Love for Christ
3. The Measure of Obedience: His Word
Obedience to the Word
1. Our obedience to God's Word begins with active hearing (vv. 19-21)
19 My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry,20 because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.
2. Our obedience to God’s word requires ongoing action (vv.22-24)
22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.
3. Our obedience to God’s word results in a promised blessing (v.25).
25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.
Conclusion