Advice for Disciples

November 17, 2017

DAILY READING

James 5:1-12

This week’s sermon text: Romans 15:14-29

FIELD NOTES

The book of James is filled with advice for believers. When we think about what it means to be a disciple, someone who lives intentionally in the name of Jesus, several lessons arise from chapter 5.

Disciples do not lift themselves up at the expense of others. This message is found in the warning to oppressors. Disciples do not oppress others; instead they build others up. Disciples are patient in the face of suffering. They know that the Lord is near and they take heart and comfort in that.

Disciples do not grumble against one another. It feels good to grumble, gossip and, complain. However, grumbling rarely resolves conflicts; it usually just perpetuates them. Likewise, disciples do not judge one another. Judgment is the purview of the Lord.

Disciples are intentional and purposeful with their words and their actions. They mean what they say and they do what they say. Their yes is yes and their no is no.

These are just a few ways that disciples can live on purpose in their everyday, ordinary lives.

QUESTIONS FOR THE FIELD

• How can you build others up instead of pushing them down?
• Are you ever tempted to grumble against someone? How can you resolve the situation without grumbling?

FAMILY FIELD TALK

• How can you let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no this week?
• In other words, how can you be more honest and purposeful with your words and actions?

PRAYER GUIDE
Holy God, help me to grow in my discipleship this week. Help me to be purposeful with my words, my actions, my relationships with others, and especially my relationship with you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.