True ReligionJames 1:21-27

What is the “word”?

• “perfect law”• “law of liberty”• Law interpreted by Christ• Law fulfilled by Christ• the word “implanted”

The word of God

The word of God

Jeremiah 31:31, 33“Behold, days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah... I will put My law within them and on their heart I will write it; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.”

God’s Word must be “received”

The word “received”

Luke 16:4“I know what I shall do, so that when I am removed from the management people will welcome me into their homes.”

- Throw out unwanted visitors -- Not just a casual acquaintance -

The word “received”

1 Peter 2:1–2Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander, like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation....

- Throw out unwanted visitors -- Not just a casual acquaintance -

- Gaze with deep affection -

The word “received”

God’s Word can “save your

soul”

“salvation” = rescue or deliverance“soul” = life or person

“salvation of your soul” = rescue your life

God’s word can “save your soul”

Psalm 6:4Return, O Lord, rescue my soul; Save me because of Your lovingkindness.

Proverbs 13:3The one who guards his mouth preserves his life; The one who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.

God’s word can “save your soul”

God’s word can “save your soul”

Ezekiel 18:26–27“When a righteous man turns away from his righteousness, commits iniquity and dies because of it, for his iniquity which he has committed he will die. Again, when a wicked man turns away from his wickedness which he has committed and practices justice and righteousness, he will save his life (lit. soul).”

God’s word can “save your soul”

James 5:20...he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.

Saved from...• Self-

deception• Conflict• Useless living• Illness/death• Shame

Saved for...• Wisdom• Peace• Useful living• Life on earth• Reward

God’s word can “save your soul”

God’s word can “save your soul”

Psalm 68:5Behold, a father of the fatherless and a judge for the widows, Is God in His holy habitation.

Isaiah 1:17Learn to do good; seek justice, reprove the ruthless, defend the orphan, plead for the widow.

God’s word can “save your soul”

“The world does not need a definition of religion as much as it

needs a demonstration.” Martin Luther

Youth Impact Faithful to the

Fatherless OWLS

Aggieland Pregnancy Outreach

Hope Pregnancy Center

Brazos Church Pantry

SOS Ministries

Care for the vulnerable

True ReligionJames 1:21-27