Early church leader James wrote, “Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.”
It seems that to James, a faith without action is worthless. His statement, however, did not end this debate between faith and works. In fact, he seems to allow at least the possibility of a viable faith that lacks tangible action.
There is a tension here, one that has not been resolved in the two millennia since.
James also wrote, “If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?”
I recently read the premier issue of a magazine that addresses this idea of Christian action in a most proactive way. It is Reject Apathy, published by the folks who put out Relevant magazine. (I recommend both.)
The tag line of Reject Apathy is: “Sustainable Change. Sacrificial Living. Spiritual Revolution.”
We can look to Jesus as our example. He went about doing good: healing people, feeding people, and teaching people what they should do. How could we, as his followers, do anything less?
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront a status quo faith and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.
Bogged Down Reading the Bible?
Get the Bible Reading Tip Sheet: “10 Tips to Turn Bible Reading from Drudgery to Delight.”
Enter your info and receive the free Bible Reading Tip Sheet and be added to Peter’s email list.