We continued our series in James, looking at 1:18-27. The sermon was focused on how the Word changes Christian community:
I. The Word humbles - all of Scripture must be authoritative for how we live every aspect of our lives. We should humble ourselves to the Scriptures, the same way Jesus did in every aspect of His ministry.
II. The Word shapes - the Bible should be normative for every part of our life: words, deeds, imaginations, etc. Four disciplines for allowing the Word to shape us include:
A. Study it intently and deeply, not superficially
B. Allow it to define who we are, including exposing flaws and weaknesses
C. Repeat and practice what it teaches
D. Allow it to liberate you
III. The Word liberates - true freedom comes from a law that restricts us where we need to be. Just as a fish were made for water, so we are made to glorify God by obedience to His Word. We can only live according to the Word because of Christ's death and resurrection. Without Christ the Law is a burden, but because of Christ we can live for God as we were created to do.