Why James Matters in This Cultural Moment
By Rachel White, Pastor of Next Steps
If you’ve ever found yourself thinking “faith in Jesus should change the way we live and the world around us” James is the book for you and I’m excited that tomorrow we start our sermon series in James: Faith That Works.
I grew up in a Christian home, but Jesus became real to me when faith actually worked–it made a difference, had an impact. As a teenager I was convicted of how my words and my behavior were not very Christlike despite me calling myself a Christian. While I knew about Jesus, he wasn’t Lord over my tongue-I was gossiping and speaking badly of others. Confessing that sin and acknowledging Jesus as Lord over all was a step towards him changing me from the inside out. My faith at this point went from head to heart, and from disconnected belief to a holistic faith that impacted every part of me. I’m still on that journey to this day, daily asking him what parts and perspectives don’t line up with his will, and what it might look like to be more dependent on him, and more like him.
We all have some parts of life that are more easily surrendered to the Lord than others. It’s far easier to act religious than it is to be truly devoted to Jesus first, and yet Jesus challenges us to be whole-hearted in our commitment to him. I’m sure many of could say we need to grow in certain parts of our walk. For me, in the aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s death, the Lord has been speaking to me about trusting him more, seeking his wisdom above worldly wisdom, and continuing to ask for greater boldness to both declare and display faith to others who might not share the same perspective.
Many of our congregation have been deeply impacted by Charlie Kirk’s death. This event has left many feeling shaken. Whether because of anger against evil, grief of losing a leader of personal significance or fear over what this moment might mean for the safety of others with similar views. Many are grieving the state of our country displayed by the division and violence of this moment and the reaction since.
I believe it is not by accident we are studying James in this cultural moment. The Word of God always has something to say to us, right where we are at. This book will remind us of where our hope lies–firmly in the goodness of God. It will help us to find comfort in God’s ability to overcome evil. It will challenge us to live out our faith in practical, demonstrable ways that edify our witness to the world–to tame our tongues, to be peacemakers and pursue unity. Through the book of James, the Lord will soften our hearts towards the often overlooked, and strengthen our souls to persevere through hard times. James will point us to prayer, and unity, and faith in action.
Sound relevant to our moment? That’s what I’m seeing. Thank you Jesus for your Word and your ability to cut through the noise and speak to us. So wherever you are at in your processing and grief, can I encourage you to make room to fix your eyes on him and worship tomorrow. This study promises to deepen our faith and dependence on him.
I’m thrilled that as we launch our sermon series we will also have a purpose-created devotional guide to be used individually and in LifeGroups.
If you pre-ordered your book, it will be available for pick up tomorrow morning in the lobby, and again next Sunday morning, September 28. If you are unable to make it, feel free to send someone on your behalf! If you haven’t ordered one yet, you will be able to get one tomorrow, paying using either this link or exact cash ($10).
We have many LifeGroups planning to use the James devotional in their groups this Fall. If you don’t yet have a LifeGroup, you can let us know what you are looking for here, or check out some of our available options here. Groups studying James have that listed under their profile. We’d love to support your connection to community here at Chapel Hill!
Pastor Rachel