Young Adults' Group

Expressing Genuine Faith

by Pastor Mark
January 18, 2024

Understanding genuine faith

One key thing that the Apostle James sought to lovingly teach his Jewish brethren was understanding genuine faith. We may unwisely assume that we have genuine faith. But in reality, it may not be what we deem it to be. James wrote about what this genuine faith entails.

1. Involves holding on to the faith of the Lord Jesus (James 2:1)
2. In no way showing partiality (James 2:1)
3. Recognising that we are rich in faith (James 2:5)
4. Fulfilling the royal law of love (James 2:8)

But the problem with the brethren was that they were only seeking to claim that they had genuine faith. James sought to highlight the differences between genuine faith and only claiming faith.

The contrast between genuine faith and claiming faith

1. Genuine faith

1. It is profitable
   • Genuine faith is clearly expressed in works such as feeding the poor (James 2:18).
   • It is this faith that will ensure our salvation in Christ.
   • This genuine faith would be of great benefit and worth to us.
2. It is evident
   • James emphasised the fact that he was able to manifest his faith by his works (James 2:18).
   • His life and ministry as a loving leader of the Jerusalem church proved his faith.
3. It is alive
   • A faith that has works and shows love to others is one that is alive.
   • The work manifested makes a difference in the lives of people who need help.
4. It is wise
   • Those who develop genuine faith in life and ministry are truly wise.
   • Let us be challenged to ensure that we have genuine faith.

2. Claiming faith

1. It does not profit
   • There is no benefit for those who claim to have faith but do not have works.
   • It does not have the power to save (James 2:14).
   • There is the danger of mistaken salvation, which highlights the fact that we cannot take our faith for granted.
2. It is not evident
   • James challenged the detractors to prove or evidence their faith without works (James 2:14).
   • This was impossible as there was nothing in their lives to demonstrate their faith.
3. It is dead
   • Such a faith does not give practical help to those in need…making no difference to anyone.
   • James declared twice that faith without works is considered dead (James 2:17,20).
4. It is foolish
   • James also lamented that holding on to a faith without works is foolish, empty and vain.
   • The challenge is for us to be wise and discern what genuine faith is and to pursue it.

Let us be challenged to cultivate genuine faith and express it in our lives and ministries.

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