No Compromise in Obedience
James 1:19-27
Though we are taking a break from small groups for the summer, it would still be beneficial to talk through scripture together. Take some time to meet with one another each week to dig deeper into the text.
Reflect:
- After addressing trials and temptations, why do you think James focused on the behaviors in 1:19? What do you think it means to be “quick to hear?” (See Proverbs 2:1-2) How important or what benefits do you see in being “slow to speak”? (See Proverbs 10:19; 15:28.)
- What evidence reveals an individual’s commitment to God? (Consider verses 19, 21, and 27)
- What does anger lead us into? (Prov 14:17, 29:22, Psalm 37:8, Colossians 3:21) How does that resonate with you personally?
- What kind of religion pleases God? How did Jesus model this?
- When Paul looked into the “mirror” of God’s Word, what did he find out about himself? Romans 3:19-20; 7:7-9,24
Respond:
- Why is it so important to remind ourselves that it is about our hearts? Have you ever obeyed just because you felt bad? Was your heart impacted by that obedience? How does obedience provide freedom? (Isaiah 55:7-9, Luke 6:46-49)
- Read through the following verses about the tongue:
- Proverbs 11:12 Whoever derides their neighbor has no sense, but the one who has understanding holds their tongue.
- Proverbs 12:18 The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
- Proverbs 17:28 Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.
- Proverbs 18:21 The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
- Proverbs 21:23 Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.
- What would you say about the power of a controlled tongue?
