Focus: In James 2:14-26, James addresses the words that send shivers down our spines—“faith without works is dead.” These words, although tough, help realign our focus and develop a Christ-like faith that is made evident through Christ-like deeds.

Sermon Outline
A Living Faith: James 2:14-26

Martin Luther and The Book of James

James and the Rest of Scripture
James 1:18 ~ John 3:3
James 1:21 ~ Romans 10:9
Greek term logos, or “word,” also means __________ (Jesus and His teaching/James and his teachings).
James 2:8-11 ~ Galatians 5:13-15; Galatians 6:2
Similar to James, Paul and Jesus say our faith must produce __________ (“fruits”/“veggies”).

James 2:14-17
Christ-like Character
In Luke 10, the person who truly demonstrates faith is the one who __________ (loves himself/loves God and his neighbor).

James 2:18-19
A simple awareness of Christ without Christ-like works __________ (does/does not) distinguish us from creation.

James 2:20-26
Both Abraham and Rahab showcase their faith in God because of their __________ (acts of faith/sense of humor).
James says our body is analogous to __________ (faith/works) and our spirit is analogous to __________(faith/works), meaning faith without works is as lifeless as a body without a spirit.
James 2:17, 26 ~ Galatians 5:6

Conclusion:
Dietrich Bonhoeffer and “Grace”
The difference between our faith/works and the faith/works of the Pharisees is __________ (Christ-like character/our work ethic).