In the sermon titled “Faith that Works” based on James 2, Pastor Allen Victor of Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville explored the profound relationship between faith and works, emphasizing that faith without corresponding actions is essentially dead. James 2:1-4 encourages believers to avoid partiality, warning against favoritism and prejudice based on appearance, race, or status. The sermon highlighted that there is no place for favoritism, schisms, or racism in the body of Christ, calling attention to the stereotypes people often hold about others, from racial bias to assumptions about different political parties and social groups.

Pastor Allen addressed the current racial tensions, acknowledging the existence of racism but denying that systemic racism plagues modern America, as evidenced by the country’s diverse leadership, including a Black president and various officials from different racial backgrounds. He noted that much of what is portrayed in the media is “race baiting,” designed to divide rather than unify. Providing statistics on police-related deaths in 2023, Pastor Allen urged the congregation to seek the truth behind the stories and avoid being swayed by media manipulation.

The sermon took an introspective turn when James 2:5-7 was discussed, reminding believers that God has chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith. While the rich may often oppress others, Christians are called to honor those whom the world overlooks. The call to live out the royal law—to love your neighbor as yourself—was expounded upon, with Pastor Allen noting that if believers show partiality, they are guilty of sin, as emphasized in James 2:8-13. He urged his audience to remember that the same law that convicts someone of murder also convicts the one who shows favoritism.

The concept of saving faith versus working faith became central in the sermon, as James 2:14 challenges the idea of faith without works. Faith, Pastor Allen explained, is like fire—if there is no smoke (works), there is no fire (faith). Works are the evidence of faith. Pastor Allen likened this to love, giving personal examples, such as showing love to his wife through actions, not just words. He emphasized that faith without action is dead, just as saying “God bless you” to someone in need without helping them is meaningless.

Pastor Allen recounted examples of faith in action within the congregation, where people gave generously to those in need, helping them avoid homelessness or abuse. The church’s generosity extended beyond financial help, as members also shared the gospel with those they encountered. In this way, the church collectively lived out the teachings of James 2:18, where faith is demonstrated through works.

Furthering the discussion on faith, Pastor Allen reflected on the faith of Abraham in James 2:20-24. Abraham’s willingness to offer his son Isaac was a powerful example of faith in action. His works proved his faith, and he was justified by both. Likewise, Rahab’s faith, mentioned in James 2:25, was evidenced when she acted to protect the spies, demonstrating that her faith was alive and active. The sermon closed with a reminder from James 2:26 that just as a body without the spirit is dead, faith without works is dead also. Pastor Allen illustrated this with a powerful metaphor, stating that to believe in a parachute without putting it on would be foolish, just as claiming to have faith without demonstrating it through action is empty.

Through this sermon, Pastor Allen challenged the congregation to examine their faith. Is it merely a profession, or is it alive, evidenced by actions that align with Christ’s teachings? The message was a call to live a faith that works, one that reflects Christ’s love and transforms lives in practical, meaningful ways. The ultimate solution to racism, prejudice, and division, Pastor Allen affirmed, is found in the transformative power of Christ’s love.

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