Because Christ is the cornerstone, Christians must build in Christ.

1. Christians must fix their faith upon Christ.

2. Christians must own their identity in Christ.

3. Christians must keep their conduct for the glory of Christ.

Twin Oaks Presbyterian Church

Since Christ’s return is sure, we must set our hope fully on His grace.

1. How do we set our hope fully on Christ’s grace? (vs. 13-14)

Prepare your minds for action. (vs. 13a)

Be sober minded (vs. 13b)

Do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance (vs. 14)

2. Why do we set our hope fully on Christ’s grace? (vs. 15-19)

Because we are children of the judge (vs. 17)

Because there is a judgement (vs. 17)

Because God is holy (vs. 15-16)

Because grace was costly to God (vs. 18-19)

Since the Spirit prophesied through men, we must embrace His testimony.

1. The Spirit prophesied about the Christ

2. The Spirit prophesied for the Church

Because of the eternal saving work of the triune God...we must rejoice in our hope and we must rejoice in our trials.

What does a powerful pulpit require?

1. It Requires Biblical Preaching

a. The Preacher must Herald the Gospel

b. The Preacher must Obligate the Conscience

2. It Requires Biblical Listening

a. The Listener must Believe the Gospel

b. The Listener must Obey the Conscience

Why did our graphic designer use a ketchup bottle image for this title slide? It makes perfect sense when you hear it illustrated

in this sermon on "Fearless Love". Here's the outline:

1. Faith: The Grace to Remember (v. 15, 16)

2. Hope: The Memory of our Future (v. 17, 18)

3. Love: The Fruit of our Hope (v. 18-21)

These final verses from the book of James encapsulate the entire letter. What does genuine Christian brotherhood require? It requires walking together in the way of truth and responsibility. We are simply to "be" the Church - in truth and in life.

James 5:13-18 focuses on prayer and what God's people must know. There are "seasons, subjects, and strength" in prayer and lead pastor Russ St. John expands on this outline in this message on this focus in the Christian's life.

Pastor Russ St. John's message from only one verse (James 5:12) can be summarized by Exodus 20:16 and Heidelberg Catechism Question & Answer 112. Russ uses many other passages and illustrations to point out the serious use of our speech to either build up or tear down others. Only reliance on the Holy Spirit of Christ can cure our ill-speaking tongue.

"You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor."

What is the aim of the ninth commandment?

That I never give false testimony against anyone, twist no one’s words, not gossip or slander, nor join in condemning anyone rashly or without a hearing. Rather, in court and everywhere else, I should avoid lying and deceit of every kind; these are the very devices the devil uses, and they would call down on me God’s intense wrath. I should love the truth, speak it candidly, and openly acknowledge it. And I should do what I can to guard and advance my neighbor’s good name.