Hearing and Doing

For the week of October 12-18, 2025

FREE PREVIEW: James 1:19-27 - Hearing and Doing

This is a condensed preview of this week's full Bible study lesson, available exclusively to paid subscribers.

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Introduction

One of the greatest dangers facing Christians today is the gap between knowing and doing. We can attend church regularly, study the Bible extensively, and even teach others—yet fail to live out what we claim to believe. James addresses this dangerous disconnect head-on, calling us to be "doers of the word, and not only hearers."

This passage reveals that authentic Christianity involves three essential elements: how we listen, how we live, and how we love.

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I. LISTEN with Wisdom

So, then, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger (James 1:19).

Spiritual maturity begins with learning to listen well—both to God and to others. James gives us a three-part formula for wise communication that transforms our relationships and our ability to receive God's truth.

II. LIVE the Word

But be doers of the word, and not only hearers, deluding your own selves (James 1:22).

The ultimate test of biblical knowledge isn't how much we know but how much we obey. James warns that hearing without doing leads to spiritual self-deception—we think we're mature when we're actually stagnant.

III. LOVE in Action

Pure religion and undefiled before our God and Father is this: to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained by the world (James 1:27).

True religion isn't measured by religious activities but by practical love for the vulnerable and personal holiness. James defines authentic faith as caring for those who cannot care for themselves while maintaining moral purity.

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