James 3: 1-12: Summary:

"So also faith apart from works is dead," James declares. He then proceeds with a warning. We live in a world rich with opportunities to show our good works. We can help orphans and widows. We can do good to one another, sharing with those in need. All good things. A picture may be worth a thousand words, but it only takes one lying word to ruin a reputation. One harsh word to wreck a friendship. One careless word to call the bluff on our claims of "faith". Painting picture after picture, heaping up images, stringing together examples, James warns us that what we say speaks volumes about about the validity of our faith.

Sermon Outline:

Put faith to work...through diligent pursuit (3:1-2)

Put faith to work...by staying alert (3:3-8)

Put faith to work...by purifying the source (3:9-12)