My preparation for teaching this upcoming Sunday 25AUG on James 5:12-20 continues and this morning my focus today is a commentary-assisted review of the text, leaning on DesiringGod.com's Look at the Book videos (Part 1 and Part 2) for James 5:19-20.
Excerpts from Part 1:
- use of my brothers uses quite frequently - emphasizing family of God
- use of you means we should not assume that a wanderer is not a believer; not following doctrine (obedience - see also Galatians 2:14) or not believing doctrine (see Romans 10:9 how belief in doctrine is key)
- v20 let whoever is doing the rescuing or being rescued that there is benefit - encouragement, inspiration, etc. for the former, and salvation, compassion, mercy, etc. for the latter.
- be reminded that while we are referred to largely as saints, we are also sinners (1 Timothy 1:15)!
Excerpts from Part 2:
- focus on doctrine of eternal security; human agency is critical in community
- human agents used by God save (and cover) sinners from wandering and death
- five truths about eternal security: (1) we are justified by grace alone, through faith alone apart from works (see Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 3:28); (2) those who are justified will be certainly be glorified (Romans 8:30), (3) but no one will be glorified/finally saved who does not continue in faith (1 Corinthians 15:1-2, Colossians 1:21-23, Matthew 10:22); (4) God Himself will keep His children from finally falling away (dynamic process) (Philippians 1:6, 1 Corinthians 1:8-9); (5) God keeps His children by means of His children (Hebrews 3:13-14).
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome incredible God who has given me incredible, supportive and Christ-like community in my family and in my church-thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of how You saved me and give me such a community. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
