True Religion Comes from God’s Word

Rev. Bryan Wolfmueller, pastor at St. Paul Lutheran Church and Jesus Deaf Lutheran Church in Austin, TX, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study James 1:19-27.

The Word of God that begets Christians has ongoing effects. This Word is not heard only once. Instead, Christians are quick to listen to God. His Word produces a similar effect toward our neighbor; we are quick to listen and slow to speak so that we do not fall into anger, which would seek to justify sin instead of rejoice in God’s free righteousness. The implanted Word that saves our souls rids us of filthiness and wickedness. This Word is so powerful that it produces deeds when it is heard. One who does not act on the Word has forgotten what the Word has said about himself and about Christ. The Christian rejoices in the freedom God has shown him and the blessings that are given as he does lives according to the powerful Word. True religion is not found in the empty words of a man, but in the efficacious Word of God that directs our attention to those for whom God cares and away from the deceit of the world.

“Wisdom from Above” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Epistle of St. James. Contrary to what some might claim, this short epistle does not contradict St. Paul. Instead, St. James makes different, yet complementary, points concerning the Christian life. Written in a style similar to the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, this insightful epistle comforts, confronts, and strengthens Christians to live a life of good works that flow from God’s gift of faith, even in the midst of trials.