#3-Discipleship-Obedience

James, the brother of Jesus, wrote about real faith for real life. He was more practical than theological. He described the Christian faith as a way of life that went beyond mere words. James challenged his readers to live what they believed, and that challenge still stands. “Be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves” (James 1:22).

If we’re honest, we will admit that there is a gap between what we know and how we live. There is a gap between what we profess and what we practice. James confronts that gap. We can so easily deceive ourselves thinking that we are spiritually mature and pleasing God by how much we know. But it’s not how much we know that matters; it’s how we obey. It’s not about information, but transformation. It’s about an overflow of love for God that results in obedience. Jesus said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). The proof that we love God, and the proof that we are true believers, is how quickly and cheerfully and fully we obey God.

So, if we want to be fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ, if we want to be true disciples, if we want to narrow the gap between what we know and how we live, then we must be willing to ask ourselves this question. Does the life I live reflect the faith I profess?