Faith Without Works 

Scripture Reading: James 2:14-20.

Memory Verse: "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).

Introduction: In the Bible Friend magazine appeared the story of an old Scotsman who operated a little rowboat for transporting passengers. One day a passenger noticed that the good old man had carved on one oar the word "Faith," and on the other oar the word "Works." Curiosity led him to ask the meaning of this. The old man, being a well-balanced Christian and glad of the opportunity for testimony, said, "I will show you."
  So saying, he dropped one oar and plied the other called Works, and they just went around in circles. Then he dropped that oar and began to ply the oar called Faith, and the little boat just went around in circles again--this time the other way around, but still in a circle.
  After this demonstration the old man picked up Faith and Works, and plying both oars together, sped swiftly over the water, explaining to his inquiring passenger, "You see, that is the way it is in the Christian life. Dead works without faith are useless, and 'faith without works is dead' also, getting you nowhere. But faith and works pulling together make for safety, progress, and blessing."

Lesson Questions:

1. Discuss the uselessness of faith that is inoperative. James 2:14; Proverbs 26:23; Mark 7:6; Titus 1:16.

2. What good is there in blessing those in need with words only? James 2:15,16; 1 John 3:18; Matthew 25:41-46; Ecclesiastes 5:13.

3. Read the parable of the "good Samaritan" in Luke 10:29-37. Which man showed living faith in his ministry of mercy?

4. How does James describe faith without works? James 2:17; Psalm 24:14; 37:3; Luke 6:35; Hebrews 13:16.

5. What challenge does James issue to those whose faith is not proved by good works? James 2:18; Ephesians 2:8-10; John 5:36; 1 Peter 2:12.

6. If we believe there is one God, is this alone enough to save us? James 2:19,20; Acts 19:15; Jeremiah 17:10; Ezekiel 18:30; 2 Corinthians 5:10;
1 Peter 1:17.

7. What action must a man take to be saved from sin? Isaiah 53:7; Ezekiel 18:21; Acts 2:38; 3:19; 17:30; Psalm 34:18.
Note: Repentance from dead works is the action we take to "turn around" from doing evil, and then begin to live righteously. Initial repentance is followed by daily repentance for as we grow in holiness, more and more of "self" must be forsaken.

8. After our initial repentance, to what should our works be dedicated? Romans 6:13-22; 1 Peter 2:16; Hebrews 9:14.