Intentional Faith: A "How To" Guide - How to Prove You Have Faith

Harvest Bible Chapel Pittsburgh North Sermons - Harvest Bible Chapel Pittsburgh North

Introduction:

Matthew 7:21 - Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.

Romans 2:6-8 - He will render to each one according to his works: to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life; but for those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, there will be wrath and fury.

How to Prove You Have Faith (James 2:14-26)

1. A faith that doesn't Move you to Serve = dead faith. (Jas 2:15-17)
2. A faith that is just about Agreeing to Doctrine = dead faith. (Jas 2:18-19)

   John 3:2 - This man (Nicodemus) came to Jesus by night and said to him, "Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him."

3. A faith that Makes your Choices = living faith. (Jas 1:20-26)

Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANK
Hint: Highlight blanks above for answers!

Small Group Discussion
Read James 2:14-26

1. What was your big take-away from this passage / message?

2. What exactly is James talking about when he speaks of “works”? Give specific examples of the kinds of works that flow from authentic faith.

3. Suppose you see a church member who doesn’t seem to show any works resulting from saving faith. How do you know if they are just an immature believer or not really a believer at all?

4. How would you approach such a person (from question 2) if they were in your Small Group?

5. James says Abraham was justified by works (James 2:21), but Paul says in Romans 4:2 “For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God.” Do James and Paul contradict each other? How would you explain this?

Breakout
Pray for one another!