How can you tell whether faith is alive?

In “Faith With A Pulse,” part of Metro Life Church’s James sermon series “A Faith that Works,” Pastor Chris Jessee opens James 2:14-26 to show that saving faith rests in Jesus Christ and becomes visible through obedient love. James warns that faith without works is dead, exposing the emptiness of saying we believe while people remain hungry or burdened. Living faith responds because Jesus came near to us, bore our guilt at the cross, rose from the grave, and gives His Spirit to those who trust Him.

Abraham and Rahab show how genuine Christian faith moves into action. Obedience reveals trust in the God who saves by grace. This message gives an honest warning to anyone relying on knowing Christian answers. It also comforts believers whose faith feels weak. Weak faith can keep reaching for a strong Savior.

James brings faith and works into real life. Offer practical help. Tell the truth. Seek forgiveness. Keep your promise. Ask the Holy Spirit to make your trust in Christ visible through the next clear act of obedience.

Key takeaways

• Saving faith relies on Christ alone, and His grace produces obedient love.
• Begin with the need God has already placed in front of you.
• Genuine faith receives correction and returns to Christ.
• Jesus carries the weight of our guilt. His complete obedience and sufficient sacrifice secure everyone who trusts Him.
• Ask the Holy Spirit for strength, then take the next clear step.