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The Faith of the Remnant Church

                                                   James Chapter 2 

The Church and Its’ Faith

 

2 My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Here, the Apostle James addresses the church.  He tells the members of the body, that we are not to base “the faith” with respect to persons.  He refers to "the faith” as the “faith of our Lord Jesus Christ”.  What James is saying is that our faith, as a church, and as individuals of the body, must mimic the faith that Christ displayed while He was here on earth as our example, and that “the faith” should never be tainted by the opinions or ideals of man.  Scripture must interpret scripture, solo Scriptura.

 

Why is this significant?  Who was James to make such a declaration?  Does the rejection of this counsel have consequences, and if so, what might they be?

 

The Apostle James was not only of the church brethren, but he was also the actual brother of Jesus Christ.  Christian historians point to James as the leader of the early church.  What was his role as leader of Christ’s church?  How does his role differ from the roles of other religious leaders?  Does it make a difference in the way people worship God?

 

Webster’s Definition:

A. Leader –

1.     Person who has authority or influence

2.     Person who leads, conducts.

B.  Pope -

1.    a prelate who as bishop of Rome is the head of the Roman Catholic (Universal) Church

2.    one that resembles a pope (as in authority)

 

As we can see from these definitions, both a leader and a Pope have inherent authority, and both can influence and direct.  So, what, if any, is the difference between these two forms of leadership?  What is the manner and limitation of their authority?  Does choosing one form over the other cause a diversion from “the faith of Jesus Christ”?  If so, is that deviation of spiritual importance? 

 

The faith of Jesus Christ is best explained by the following verse:

Colossians 1:18 - And he (Jesus) is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

 

Here we clearly see that Jesus is the head of His church.   This verse also states that He is the beginning, or cornerstone, and the One whom the entire church is based upon.  It then goes on to ensure that no one can mistake who this verse is referring to by calling Him, “the firstborn of the dead”, referring to Christ’s resurrection.  Lastly, this text states that everyone in the body understands His superiority. 

 

So, let us strictly scrutinize the definitions above, and discover which form of leadership identifies the true leader of Christ’s church.  First, we have Pope.  The definitions above state that the Pope has the authority “that resembles the Pope”, should not the Pope resemble his God?  So, what type of authority does the leader of the Church of Rome poses, and from where is this authority derived? 

 

The Papal Infallibility Doctrine - in Roman Catholic theology, the doctrine that the pope, acting as the supreme teacher (Rabbi & Master) and under certain conditions, cannot err when he teaches in matters of faith or morals.  It is believed that Christ gave this promise to Peter, who they believe to be the first Pope, and that all subsequent Popes are derived from his (Peter’s) succession.  This doctrine is like the Divine Right of Kings Doctrine.  This form of leadership creates a master and servant relationship and is obtained thru inheritance. 

 

Mathew 23:8 - But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.

 

The Convert's Catechism of Catholic Doctrine, 1951 printing, page 50. - We observe Sunday instead of Saturday because the Catholic Church, in the Council of Laodicea, (AD 336) transferred the solemnity from Saturday to Sunday.... 

 

Therefore, from these two doctrines, we find that the definition of Pope infers supreme authority of a man over Christ’s Church and the power for such authority are derived from the church.  In both aspects, Christ is robbed of His rightful place as Head of His Church and sole authority over it. 

 

Now let us give strict scrutiny to the definition of Leader.  Let us examine if there are any similarities, or differences between the word leader and pope. 

 

As we see, the word leader refers to a person who has the authority or influence over those in the body of Christ.  On the surface, it would seem to be equal to that of the pope, but in this case, the right to lead is granted from God and accepted thru the laity.  There is no right of succession or creation of a hierarchy, for all in the church are equals. 

 

² For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment;

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Here Paul describes two different men, the first is adorned with lavish and beautiful things, the second has nothing but the rags he wears to cover his nakedness.  Remember, the purpose of this story is not the two men, but rather how the laity react to what they see.

 

³ And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Here the church members, being enticed by the adornments of the wealthy man, favor him, and place him in a location of honor, whereas they loathe the poor man, and place him in the location of shame, out of the eyes of others.  Is not being enticed like being tempted thru the lust of the eyes?  Is not loathing your brother the same as hating him? 

 

⁴ Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?

 

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Here James shows us the consequences of respecting man.  Here respecting man leads to favoritism, and a bias nature.  This bias in the Church’s nature will eventually lead to the creation of criteria for entering Christ’s fold, this then transforms God’s Church to a club, for clubs have criteria for its members.

  Christ never gave any instructions for a person to join His church, only that they allow His Holy Spirit to make the necessary changes in them so that they will choose to remain in it. 

 

⁵ Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Again, James reminds his spiritual family that it was Christ Himself who chose the poor to be the heirs of His kingdom.  Therefore, all in God’s flock must be poor, giving up everything, and placing Christ in His rightful place, first.  To place Christ anywhere but first is to reject Him, and to commit blasphemy.  It also causes the transformation of God’s precepts and creates a new religion. 

 

In the Roman Church, Christ is NOT first, before He comes the Pope, Mary, the Saints, and even religious relics.

 

Mathew 5:3 & 5 - ³ Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  ⁵ Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

 

Mathew 10:37 - He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.

 

⁶ But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?

 

Understanding Biblical Truth –

By despising the poor, we despise those who Christ chose to be his heirs, and we favor those who would destroy us.  Remember, this is speaking of the attitude or spirit of being poor, not the actual financial status of being poor or rich.  The attitude of the rich is to conquer, for the rich are never satisfied with their wealth.  So, when we favor the rich over the poor, we favor them over ourselves, to be like them, to think like them, to accept the riches of Egypt for a season, by denying the blessing of God for eternity.  We reject what Christ wants for us. 

 

⁷ Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

When a church, or its members, call themselves by the name of our Savior, Christians and they act in a manner contrary to how their Master would act, they give a false interpretation of the One that they follow.  This deceptive presentation is blasphemy against God and is an intentional act against the third commandment.

 

⁸ If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Here James states, that if the members, fulfill the royal law, according to scripture, and not according to the interpretations of man, they do well.  This infers the opposite, if mankind attempts to fulfill the royal law thru the interpretations of man, they fail.  The precepts of the royal law are to love your neighbor.  If we love our neighbor, we will not covet that which they possess.  If we love our neighbors, we will not steal from them.  If we love our neighbors, we will not bare false witness against them.  If we love our neighbors, we will not desire to kill them.  If we love our neighbor, we will thank God for them. 

 

⁹ But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Here it is made clear if we have respect for persons, we commit sin.  How is this possible?  Well, we must return to the royal law.  The first commandment is “not to place anything or anyone before God”.  When we are respecters of persons, we place that person before God, and in a sense, make that person our god, breaking the first and the second commandments.  

¹⁰ For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Here James states that if we break one commandment, we break them all.  How is this possible?  To understand this principle, we must become aware of the basic precept for the ten commandments, that God is Love.  If God is Love, then all things pertaining to God is also Love.  This would of course include all ten of his commandments, and statutes.  Therefore, to break any of God’s commandments or statutes is to find yourself outside the confines of Love.  Deviation from any of God’s ways is the complete rejection of His Son, and therefore of the Father. 

 

¹⁴ What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Here James poses an intriguing question, can faith alone save a man?  He inquires of the brethren, the value of faith, without the actions of works.  As a Bible-based Christian, I know that I cannot be saved by my works, but can a lack of works be my condemnation?  Do my works manifest something within me?

 

¹⁵ If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

If I truly am a Christian, then I mimic my Christ.  Before Christ spread the spiritual word, he cared for the people’s physical needs.  He then instructs us to follow His lead.

 

Mathew 25:35 - For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:

 

¹⁶ And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

James poses the question, if your brother is in physical need, and you recognize this need, and refuse to fulfill it, what does it profit the one in need?  The verbal blessing will not satisfy the physical needs, and it does not mimic the actions of Christ, who went the extra mile to make sure that both physical and spiritual needs were met. 

 

¹⁷ Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Here we have been instructed that faith, without works is without value.  It satisfies neither the body nor the spiritual needs.  In fact, James calls this relationship, dead. 

 

¹⁸ Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Here James is showing the brethren the futile nature of attempting to show one’s faith without works.  Works are the outward manifestations that a person has faith in.  They are what shows those around the actions of love that faith create. 

 

¹⁹ Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

 

Here James confronts the non-biblical teaching of salvation thru belief.  He explains to the brethren that although their belief that God is one, the Schema, is true, the same belief is shared by the enemy of God, and it causes them to tremble.  Therefore, belief in God, of itself, is not salvation thru faith.  Faith is partaking in the spirit of the Commandments, God is Love, and those who follow Him, mimic Him in love. 

 

²⁰ But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Here a question is proposed to the vain man, will you not realize that faith without works is dead?  The vain man is the most insecure.  He creates his vanity as a means to protect his fragile ego from the truth.  Eventually, he begins to believe his own lies about himself.  This personification is without value, or useless. 

 

²¹ Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Did not the offering of Isaac, his only son, as a sacrifice prove the faith of Abraham?  Did it not show Abraham’s trust in God to keep His word?

 

²² Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Seeing how faith, manufactured with his works, made the works perfect.  It satisfied the required sacrifice, the promise of Abraham, and fulfilled the spiritual needs.  Abraham’s faith knew that God would not deprive him of what he promised that he would be the father of many nations. 

 

Genesis 22:8 - And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together.

 

²³ And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Abraham’s belief in God leads to the work or action, the outward manifestations, that proved his faith.  Without the works, only God would know if faith actually existed in Abraham’s mind.  For the brethren to realize faith, there must be works, for only God can read the heart.  This trust between Abraham and God created a relationship, and before Abraham was merely a servant of God, but because of this relationship, he became a friend of God, and later a child of God. 

 

²⁴ Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

James is explaining that man’s intentions can only be represented by his actions.  Only God can read the thoughts in our mind, so only God would know if a person’s faith were real or not.  The inward thought is of no value to us since we lack this power.  Therefore, we can only judge faith by the works, and trust that God will know the truth. 

 

²⁵ Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

Here James gives the second account of faith since the Law requires two witnesses.  Rahab’s work or action, of preserving the men of Israel, justified her faith, that the God of Israel would preserve her and her family.  Had she not saved them, not only would the men of Israel die, but she and her family would have been decimated. 

 

²⁶ For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

 

Understanding Biblical Truth:

James goes on to explain, that just as the body without the pneuma is dead, so faith without the works is also dead.  A person who believes without works, that faith is dead. 

 

Conclusion:

So, what is the faith of God’s Church?  Does the definition of its Leader influence the faith of the said church?  Does it influence the manner of worship within the church? 

 

As we have experienced above, faith is not a mere principle of belief, rather faith is a lifestyle.  To have the requisite belief, without experiencing the consequences or blessings of the belief, is not to have the belief at all.  A Christian should attain joy and contentment when his works reflect his faith, and this should encourage him or her to want to do more works.  So, when a person refuses the works or is not benefitted by the works, then he or she must ascertain if their faith is real. 

 

As Christians we must desire to mimic our Christ.  We just want to act, speak and follow all that He did, for we know that His way is perfect.  If we do not have this passion in our hearts, we must reevaluate our commitment to Him and our faith in Him. 

 

Pope definition versus leader has definite differences.  A Pope is a man who is believed to be the “head” of God’s Church.  It is the Pope’s authority that is Supreme over the Laity.  It creates a master and servant relationship between the Church and the laity.  The Pope is believed to be higher than the word of God, the Bible.  The Pope derives its powers and authority from the Church.

 

Neither James, nor Peter, were Popes.  James, the brother of Jesus Christ, was the leader of the early church.  It was Christ who is, was, and always will be the only “head” of His church, for only God can hold this place.  No man has the right to usurp Christ from his role.  If Christ is the Head then all men are equal in God’s kingdom.  Therefore, there can be found no separation between the Church ministers and the Laity, for all are ministers to God, all are the Body.  By having a man sit on the throne of Christ, it alters the religion that God gave to man and creates a pagan state in its place. 

 

Let our return to the biblical precepts of God, and let Jesus be all things to all men.  Amen.