In this message, Pastor Kevin Long continues through the book of James by examining what true, God-honoring religion looks like. James challenges believers to reflect on their faith not just by what they believe, but by how they live. Drawing from verses 26 and 27, the message outlines how real religion is active, visible, and rooted in a life transformed by Christ.
Justification
Justification is the moment we are saved and made right before God. It is our positional righteousness, based not on anything we’ve done but entirely on the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross. When we confess our sins and believe in Him, we are justified by His grace and placed in right standing with the Father. Though we may not always feel righteous, we are declared righteous through Christ.
Sanctification
Sanctification is the present process of becoming more like Christ. It is the practical righteousness we live out daily. James focuses heavily on this second stage of salvation, urging believers not to skip past the process of spiritual growth and service. Sanctification is a personal and conditional response to salvation. It involves putting our faith into practice, walking in obedience, and using the gifts God has given us to serve others and grow in holiness.
Glorification
Glorification is the final stage of salvation when believers will one day be made perfect in Christ. It is the future hope we long for, the moment when Christ returns and we are given glorified bodies, free from pain and sin. Until then, we live between justification and glorification, working out our salvation with reverence and obedience through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Controlled Tongue
James begins with a warning about the tongue, reminding believers that words matter. Real religion requires that we bridle our tongues. The way we speak, the tone we use, and the purpose behind our words all reflect our walk with Christ. A controlled tongue is prayerful, purposeful, and careful. It builds up rather than tears down.
Compassionate Ministry
True religion cares for those in need. James highlights caring for orphans and widows as a model of genuine faith in action. At Trinity, ministries like TLC Associates give the church an opportunity to serve vulnerable children and families in the name of Christ. Every believer has a ministry. Serving others is not optional, it is part of a living faith.
Moral Living
James concludes with a call to live unstained by the world. Real faith impacts real life. How we live outside of church, at work, at home, in public, should reflect the presence of Jesus in us. We are called to be different from the world not by isolating ourselves but by shining brightly in it. Like the woman who touched the hem of Jesus’s garment and was healed, we are meant to bring healing and truth into a broken world.
Closing Challenge
Pastor Kevin Long closes with a reminder that real religion is not about empty words or appearances. It is a faith that changes the heart and shapes the way we speak, serve, and live. Believers are called to live a life that reflects Christ from the inside out. The gospel of Jesus Christ is our foundation and our hope. It is only good news if received in time. The question remains: Are you living a faith that’s real?
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