25—Forty Days with James: Submit, Resist, Draw Near, Wash, and Be Purified

For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ website.

James 4:7-8

Review: James 4:4 is a passage that most churches don’t teach:

Stepping on toes – consumerism..Challenging specific sins from the pulpitWarning members against the dangers / ugly side of politicsRejecting nationalism, thinking instead of our global communityCaring genuinely (and knowing about) the needs of the poor and oppressed globally.In light of these considerations, is it not fair to conclude that most churches are worldly?Some heart-searching questionsAre my spending patterns the same as my neighbors’, or do I truly honor the Lord with my wealth?Do I lovingly confront others when I see sin in their lives? And do I welcome their input when they sin in mine?Do I have a high threshold for tolerating sex and violence in what I watch? How about “explicit-language” music?Am I informed about the world, and do I care about the plight of the oppressed?Are we really living as the holy people of God? Or have we accepted the values of our country / culture — which in most of the West means the pursuit of pleasure and a high standard of living—backed up by a strong military.

Points from today's text:

The devil is stronger than we may think, but he’s also weaker than we may imagine. Resist him!How does the Lord wish us to renounce the ways of the world?It means relying on the Lord instead of our own power, wisdom, pundits...We must choose. We can’t embrace God and the world.For every one of us, this has both personal and political implicationsAs the people of God, it's probable fair to conclude we have not been submissive, holy, pure, and focused.

Further: Jesus & Politics (about 40 minutes; includes complete notes).

Next: Humble Yourself in the Sight of the Lord