Works alone are no litmus test for salvation. Anyone can do good deeds, just as anyone can say they believe. But only those whose works are a genuine product of their faith in Christ can avoid the fate of those Jesus mentions in Matthew 7.

Yesterday, we began looking at the issue of faith and works. James tells us that faith apart from works isn't really faith at all. Today, James uses Abraham to help us understand his point.

James clarifies what faith is and what it is not.

Today, we'll look at God's way and why James is making such a big deal out of treating people equally.

Today, we'll being looking at chapter two and what being a "doer" of the Word means.

We demonstrate true faith through our acts of compassion concerning those who are unable to fully take care of themselves.

In verse 25, James gives us the picture of someone with true faith.

Instead of merely being a hearer of the word, be a doer.

James finishes his thought about being slow to anger by telling us that human anger does not grow our faith or lead us toward God’s righteousness.

Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.