Introduction:

1. The book of James demands belief, words, and actions be united.

2. This text stresses that knowledge without action is meaningless.

3. This lesson focuses on two steps to pleasing God:

a. We must first receive the implanted word into our hearts.

b. We then must let that word move us to proper actions.

Discussion:

I. Receiving the Implanted Word (James 1:21)

A. Therefore= “consequently, for which cause” (Strong)

B. From what preceded, we must first cast-off worldly defilements (Romans 13:12; Ephesians 4:22; Colossians 3:8; Hebrews 12:1; 1 Peter 2:1).

C. Then we must take in certain things.

1. Receive= “take with the hand, take upon oneself” (Thayer)

2. Meekness is the opposite of the quick-tempered quick speaker.

3. Implanted= engrafted as a seed or shoot planted in soil

II. Actuating the Implanted Word (James 1:22-27)

A. Looking in the spiritual mirror:

1. Reception without actuation is self-deception.

2. Spiritual blessings belong to those who actuate the word.

B. Pure religion:

1. “Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is God in His holy habitation” (Psalms 68:5)

2. Mouthy religion is vain religion (James 3:1ff; 4:11-12; 5:9).

3. Pure religion cares for the needy while battling impurity.

1. The first step towards pure religion is meekly receiving the implanted word that is able to save our souls.

2. The proof of this reception is being moved to act upon the things contained within the perfect law of liberty.

3. Pure religion is a religion of action; anyone selling anything else is peddling vain, useless religion.