James 2:14-26 What does it profit, my brothers, though a man say he has faith, and have not works? can faith save him?… I. THE DISPOSITION AND CONDUCT OF GOD TOWARDS ABRAHAM. He distinguished him as His friend by — 1. His large munificence. 2. His intimate communion with Abraham. 3. His affectionate confidence in Abraham. 4. His sacred fidelity to Abraham. II. ABRAHAM'S DISPOSITION AND CONDUCT TOWARDS GOD. 1. Abraham's steady faith in God. 2. Abraham's holy fellowship with God. 3. Abraham's cheerful obedience to God. III. IMPROVEMENT. 1. Learn from the subject, the true dignity of man. It is not worldly distinction, not earthly possession, not alliance with the gay and the great; but it is to be "blessed with faithful Abraham" — it is to have fellowship with heaven, and friendship with God. But do all sustain this true dignity? Are all the friends of God? Certainly not. If men were His friends, it would be evinced in their disposition and conduct; but no such evidence is universally given. The fact is too plain, that many are living the very opposite of a life of faith, of prayer, and of obedience. 2. Be thankful for the grace which you have found. Praise Him, oh, praise Him, for all His inestimable benefits. 3. Confide more implicitly and affectionately in Him who hath done so much for you. 4. Enjoy your comforts with grateful satisfaction. 5. Learn to endure trials with calm submission. 6. Beware not to offend your Friend. (T. Kidd.) Parallel Verses KJV: What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?WEB: What good is it, my brothers, if a man says he has faith, but has no works? Can faith save him? |
    |