Faith Without Deeds is Dead

James 2:1-26

Key Verse 26

“As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead.”

1. Look at v.1-7. Describe the “favoritism” happening in James’ scenario. What is favoritism’s relationship to judging; why is it sinful? Why were the “poor” especially mistreated by this favoritism of the “rich” (5,6)?

2. Look at v.8-11. What fundamental law was this “favoritism” breaking (8,9)? Why does James call it the “royal law found in Scripture”? Why was it such a big deal to show favoritism? (9-11)

3. Look at v.12-13. What standards will Christian’s be judged by (12)? What is the way to overcome this coming judgement (13)?

4. Look at v.14-17. Describe the scenario James puts forth in these verses. Why does faith need to be accompanied by action (17)? How does the law to “Love your neighbor as yourself” apply to this scenario?

5. Look at v.18-19. What does James imply some people want to do with the relationship between “faith” and “deeds”? Is it possible to “show” faith apart from showing deeds? Why does James mention the belief of demons?

6. Look at v.20-24. Describe James’ reference to the life of Abraham. What does James mean that Abraham’s faith and his actions were working together? How can James say that a person is “righteous by what they do and not by faith alone”?

7. Look at v.25-26. James references the life of Rahab the prostitute. What was Rahab’s original faith (Joshua 2:8-11)? How did Rahab make her faith into a living faith that was considered “righteous”? Describe in your own words the meaning of v.26.

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