The Bible has a particular theme; it is a story of redemption through Jesus Christ. The themes of the Bible may seem varied and scattered at times, but – in reality – they all follow a consistent method of pointing the way to salvation for mankind. A consistent method is often described as a modus operandi (M.O.). In our passage today, we will find the elements of this M.O. become apparent.

Today we get back to our study of the NT book of James. The focus of chapter 3 is all about our tongues and how that what we say can have tremendous outcomes in our relationships with others and with God.

When we visit the doctor, part of the exam is to look into our mouths and, using a tongue depressor, the doctor will see if there is anything to be concerned about there. In a way this chapter is going to look into our mouths and exam us for any cautions we need to be aware of that may be found there. So, open wide our spiritual mouths and Say Ahh!

We first learned that heaven will be a city that comes down to a New Earth. We then learned that some of the works of our hands will be there too. But what will we do all day in this New Heaven and Earth? This morning, we look at three truths about what will keep us busy in the New Heaven and Earth. Is it playing harps on clouds? I hope by now you know the answer to that.

So, if last week we saw that heaven is a place we go, is here now, and is coming to earth, what will that new heaven and earth be like? Let’s look today at three truths about this new garden city that will descend to a new heaven and earth. You might just be surprised by what you find there?

We come to the most well-known and widely discussed portion of James’ letter. James wants to make sure we know that genuine saving faith will always results in organic good works of obedience. He does this, not by contradicting Paul’s message of justification by faith alone, but by making sure we know that real saving faith never remains alone. Even the demons have faith.

James is very blunt in his warning to not show partiality and favoritism in the church based on external markers. In fact, he calls it evil, law-breaking, and antithetical to the gospel of God and the mercy shown to us in Jesus. Let’s look today at the problem of partiality and Gospel solution of mercy.

James wants us to live spiritually whole lives. He provokes this by asking us, are you just a hearer of the Word, or are you also a doer of the Word? This morning, we examine the importance of God’s Word, Our Growth, and Generous Giving.

Persevering through trials brings great blessing, but trials also bring the temptation to respond in sinful ways. We need fresh reminders that temptation always comes from within, even if trials come from without, and that God is always good, giving, and gracious. He does not tempt us with evil.

While no one likes trials, James calls believers to view suffering and trials as a gift that leads us toward maturity in Christ. Rather than resenting trials we are called to turn towards God in the midst of trials, seeking his wisdom and recognizing that we are not striving for success in this world. Instead poverty, humility and even suffering can be gifts, if they send us running to the feet of Jesus.

Where is Jonah’s compassion after the repentance of the Ninevites? It’s what God wants to know. God shows that he is both merciful and just in the object lessons to Jonah, and asks us the same question – where is our compassion?