Jan 15, 2013
James 4:1-12
Who is James talking to? . . .
· Those whose faith is genuine.
· Those whose faith is fake.
What is James saying? . . .
When I pursue the things of this world by making them the object of my affection, conflict is inevitable.
“Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore, whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.” James 4:4
“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” Matthew 6:24
“Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world.” 1 John 2:15-16
“But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first.” Revelation 2:4 (speaking to the church in Ephesus)
Selfish pride, manifested in choosing my way over God’s, is always the source of conflict.
· Conflict with others.
“What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? (v.1a)
· Conflict within myself.
“Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you?”
· Conflict with God.
“Therefore, whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.” James 4:4b
James’ godly counsel . . .
1. Submit yourself before God, that you might receive grace.
2. Resist the devil, and he must retreat.
3. Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.
4. Be broken in repentance.