Talk is cheap.
There is a reason this maxim has stuck around. People can claim to be something a lot more easily than they can live out that claim. It’s one thing to claim to be a good parent, loving spouse, or reliable employee, but it’s another thing to act as any one of these identities on a day-to-day basis.
In the context of James 2, the author is making the point that it’s easier to claim to be a Christian than it is to actually be one. It is easier to assert faith than to act in faith. There is no such thing as saving faith that does not manifest itself in good works. Yes, talk can be cheap, and the verbal expression of faith is a necessity; however, if our faith only results in our using religious jargon and never reaches the point of caring tangibly for orphans, widows, and others in need, then we are self-deceived (Jas. 1:26). Our talk truly is cheap.
Tips for Teaching This Week’s Session of The Gospel Project for Adults
Every week for Volume 4: From Captivity to the Wilderness, Ken Braddy, Lifeway’s director of Sunday School, will offer guidance to help leaders prepare to lead and teach each session of The Gospel Project for Adults.
Podcast (adultsleadertraining): Play in new window | Download
Tips for Teaching This Week’s Session of The Gospel Project for Students
Every week, student ministry leaders offer guidance to help leaders prepare to lead and teach each session of The Gospel Project for Students. Listen in as he shares:
- The main point of the session
- Any challenges and opportunities for additional discussion that may arise during this session
- Encouragements for leaders
Podcast (studentsleadertraining): Play in new window | Download
A Final Reminder
Don’t forget, you can find tools to help you prepare and lead the discussion in the Additional Resources for this volume. We hope these are a blessing to you as you walk through this session together.
*This week’s leader devotional is written by Derwin Gray. It is adapted from the daily devotions for Unit 29, Session 4 from The Gospel Project for Adults’ Daily Discipleship Guide.
