July 13, 2025 | Matthew Ott
Series: James | Sermon Title: Faith In Action - A Transformed Life
Main Scripture: James 2:20-26
OUTLINE
  1. In Jesus, we are transformed – Faith comes alive as it bears fruit through love and obedience
  2. We attempt transformation through works rooted in pride, not faith, producing dead religion.
  3. Jesus accomplished the work we could not.  Through faith in Him, we are made new – true transformation begins.
  4. God’s Word reveals our need and shapes us.  As faith matures, transformation becomes visible through a life surrendered to His will.

DISCUSSION GUIDE
Group Leader: See if your group has reviewed the latest newsletter and briefly skim together if needed. NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE

Principle: In Jesus, we are transformed—faith comes alive as it bears fruit through love and obedience. (See: James 2:22, 24)

1. Why do you think James uses such strong language (“foolish person”) when describing faith without works?
  • Read: James 2:20
  • How does this help us understand what real, living faith should look like?
2. What are some everyday examples (like the Lego illustration) that help us understand how faith and works are meant to be ‘knit together’?
  • Read: James 2:22
Problem: We attempt transformation through works rooted in pride, not faith, producing dead religion. (See: James 2:26; Matthew 7:21–23)

3. Have you ever found yourself trying to earn God’s favor by doing “good” things rather than trusting Him fully? What was the result?
  • Read: Ephesians 2:8–9
4. Why is it dangerous to separate faith from works—or to put works ahead of faith?
  • Read: Matthew 7:21–23
  • What’s the difference between humanitarianism and gospel-shaped obedience?
Gospel: Jesus accomplished the work we could not. Through faith in Him, we are made new—true transformation begins. (See: Romans 5:8; James 2:23)
5. What does it mean that Jesus is both the cornerstone and the master builder in your faith journey?
  • Read: Ephesians 2:10; Romans 5:8
6. How does Rahab’s story (or Abraham’s) demonstrate the connection between belief and action in a gospel-centered life?
  • Read: James 2:25; Joshua 2
Response: God’s Word reveals our need and shapes us. As faith matures, transformation becomes visible through a life surrendered to His will. (See: Luke 6:46–49; 1 John 4:19)

7. Where in your life right now might God be calling you to act in loving obedience as a response to His grace?
  • Read: John 14:15; 1 John 4:19
8. How has your faith grown in visible ways over time?
  • Read: Luke 6:46–49
  • What practices help you keep surrendering to God’s will as you mature in Christ?

Close in Prayer