It occurs to me in studying James, chapters 1 and 2, that his
argument for justification by works (James 2:24) has everything to do
with benevolent ministries. We can conclude from the reading of
James that "pure and undefiled
religion" is something other than evangelism. It is not enough to
preach to the lost in the Congo or on the streets of North
Hollywood. If our ministry in the Word does not include a ministry
that goes to the physical needs of those within our sphere of
influence, we are involved in a perverted gospel. That is what James
is talking about when he speaks of works.
He does not conflict with Paul when Paul is heard preaching a justification by faith APART from
works (obedience) to the Law. Not at all. for when James speaks of
works, he has in mind benevolent activity. Seeing needs, looking for
needs and fulfilling them.
It was Christ who said "love your neighbor ...." A wicked
perversion of that imperative is the notion that we can fulfill that
admonition apart from being involved in lives of those in need.
Nearly all of Christ's miracles were in fulfillment of this very issue
-- the care and keeping of those within His realm of influence.
Paul agrees in Eph 2:10
when he teaches us that we were
CREATED in Christ Jesus for good works. In I Pet 2:12, that apostle
teaches us that the strongest point of our Godly manifestation to the
world is our good works. When they despise
us for what we say, they will see our good works and glorify God.
Does anyone know where it says "out do one another in good
works" or something to that effect?
JD
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