James 4:17 - 5:6 on T.A.P.
FriMay222009
TEXT: James 4:17 - 5:6
Theology
- In James 4:17, James is telling us that if we sit under teaching and we hear the truth then do not do it we are in sin.
- James 5:1 tells us that we need to pay attention to our lives and what judgment is coming in our lives. We need to realize what we are doing that abuses the grace of God. Once we realize it we need to return and repent from sin This is the second time James is exhorting us to weep over sin [James 4:9]
- James moves on to tell us that our works/lives on earth are storing up judgment for us on the day of judgment. He tells us that our works, if not for God, will be destroyed and that our works that are not for God will have become an idol to us. [James 5:3]
- In James 5:4, he gives us a practical example of what this looks like. If you are doing everything in your life, ignoring the Grace of God for your earthly possessions/desires; this will ultimately be destroyed and then God is going to be very angry with you because you have withheld what is owed to God.
- All because you want this life of luxury and selfish desires to “have it all” and “take advantage” of everything apart from God’s will. So you have turned against those who want to lead you to Jesus and true joy.
Application
- We have all been enriched by the Grace of God (believers and unbelievers) and have abused the Grace God has given us. How have you abused the grace God has given you?
- And as we do this we are going to be just adding up the judgment that will come to us on judgment day. Unless we realize, repent, return and regenerate our hearts for the Love of God through the Son Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit. What are some areas in your life you need to realize you need to repent of?
- For the purpose of putting God first, destroying our idols and love one another. What idols in your life are you putting before God?
- Look at your life this week. Check out what people do for you (i.e. Boss, Pastor, Parents etc) and give back to them this week
Prayer
- Praise God for the life you have to lead, praise Him for His mercy and grace.
- Confess to God those areas in your life that you have put before Him and agree with Him that you need to change.
- Thank God for repentance and his Grace
- Ask God to grant you a heart’s desire for Him.