As most of us know, the physical brother of Jesus once instructed followers of Jesus to be “doers of the word and not hearers only” (James 1:22a). But then he continued and said that those who “only hear” and do not “obey the word” are “deceiving themselves: (James 1:22b).
James brings to light a truth that needs to be remembered. Knowing truth and doing truth are not the same, and knowledge without obedience is useless.
Presently, the Karns church is focusing on our need to evangelize. Of course, evangelism takes many forms. We’ve discussed the “Come and See” approach (John 1:39, 41, 46; 4:29), but this quarter we are discussing the “Go and Tell” model (Matthew 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-16; Luke 24:46-47; John 20:21). This quarter, all the classes from middle school to adult are studying one of many tools that can help bring a soul to Jesus.
But now, here’s the danger. After we listen, study, and gain knowledge for the next 13 weeks, it is possible that we are content with the knowledge we have gained, and nothing changes. This is the very danger about which James warned us. We cannot deceive ourselves into thinking that filling our minds with knowledge about Jesus and how to bring others to Jesus is the same as doing what we have learned.
We must put the “Do” back in “Doctrine!” Think of what would happen if we all decided to have a Bible study with a friend, co-worker, neighbor, or family member. Don’t sell yourself short by thinking, “No one would want to study with me.” You have more influence than you realize, so leverage that influence for the cause of Christ.
A lighthouse shouldn’t just be known for its picturesque surroundings but for saving lives from a tempestuous sea. A football team shouldn’t just be known for huddles but for executing plays that win ball games. And a church shouldn’t just be known for its covered-dish dinners, worship services, and fellowship, but should be known for reaching the lost with the good news of Jesus.
Don’t be deceived. We must be doers of the word and not hearers only.