James 1:19-27

Bringing the sermon home:

Having introduced the concept of our conversion (a.k.a. the new birth) in verse 18, the rest of the letter presses the point that this supernatural work of God in our lives is not merely about forgiveness – it’s about newness. True conversion always brings transformation as our hearts are progressively aligned with the heart of God.

Where would you begin your description of the new life produced by the new birth? James begins with our words, showing that our words are the clearest indication of the state of our hearts. As Jesus said, “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Mt 12:34). What are your words revealing about you?

James then proceeds to show us that the supernatural work of God in our hearts does not end at our conversion, but continues over time, and thus we are to deliberately and diligently cultivate the gospel seed that has taken root in our hearts. Like a gardener tending a cherished plant, we are to tend the budding spiritual life within us by nourishing it with God’s Word.

However, mere exposure to the words of the Bible in and of itself will not benefit us in any way: we must do what it says. This is why James says that we must receive the Word “with meekness” – we must come to it expecting to be challenged and changed by it.

Having considered the power of the Word to change us for the better, James then notes the power of the world to change us for the worse, calling to us to keep ourselves “unstained from the world.” What’s influencing you more: the Word or the world? The only way to combat the staining influence of the world is to regularly seek God in His Word.

Sermon Outline:

1. Conversion brings transformation to the character of God. (vv. 19-21a)
2. Cultivate the gospel seed that has taken root in your heart. (vv. 21b-25)
3. Consider what’s influencing you more: the Word or the world. (vv. 26-27)