They will know we are Christians by our love

There is a popular children's song that says "they will know we are Christians by our love". How true this song is, and it just goes to show how profound children's songs can be in there simplicity. But others really will know that we are Christians by our love, not only by our love will we be known but also by our actions and deeds.

Many Christians believe and ascribe to a solely Pauline doctrine that we are saved by grace through faith and that grace is sufficient. I would argue that Paul would agree with James in saying that while we are saved by grace, and not our own merit; because we have faith and are saved we should respond to God's precious grace through working to build up God's kingdom on earth.

Since this week we are looking at models of healthy discipleship, today I ask the question how do others know that you are a Christian? Do they know because you say that you attend church regularly? Do they know because of the bible on the cocktail table? Do they know by your conversation or speech, the places you go, the things you watch, or how you carry yourself/ How do others know that you are different, that you are a follower of Christ.

Today's text should be read and digested as food for thought. Friends take times out and reflect on how through your actions and works you invite others to Christ. Remember always that being a disciple is a life style, not just something that happens when one first comes to Christ and is "discipled".



James 2:18-26 18 But someone will say, ‘You have faith and I have works.’ Show me your faith without works, and I by my works will show you my faith. 19You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder. 20Do you want to be shown, you senseless person, that faith without works is barren? 21Was not our ancestor Abraham justified by works when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? 22You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was brought to completion by the works. 23Thus the scripture was fulfilled that says, ‘Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness’, and he was called the friend of God. 24You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. 25Likewise, was not Rahab the prostitute also justified by works when she welcomed the messengers and sent them out by another road? 26For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is also dead.

Friends until next time. Be Well
Pastor J