Where are our Riches? James 5:1-11

James 5:1-3

Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you.
Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten.
Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days.

Luke 6:24

But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received your consolation.

 Matthew 19:23-24

Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. 
And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.

Why do you think Jesus says the rich will have trouble entering in to heaven, and James is rebuking rich men?
Would it be because it anchors us to worldly desires? Sins of the flesh, eyes, and pride? Is it because riches tend to hide or mask our need of God?
Riches allow for the fulfillment of worldly pleasures, remove the thought and need for God.

Matthew 6:19-21

Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

 1 Timothy 6:9-11

But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

Jesus and Paul urge us against laying up treasures on earth, the desire and love of money, providing strong reason against being rich in worldly wealth. Instead Jesus tells us to build our treasures in heaven, and Paul encourages us to flee from worldly desires and follow after righteousness, Godliness, faith, love, patience, and meekness. These are Godly riches, and Jesus tells us that where our treasure is, where the things we really want are, that is where our heart is, that is where our attention will be. So what do we really desire?

James 5:4-6

Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth.
Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter.
Ye have condemned and killed the just; and he doth not resist you.

The love of money, the desire for power, covetousness, the sins of the flesh, eyes, and pride of life, will cause men to do heinous things to their fellow man.
Look at our world today, wars, lawsuits and murder are everywhere. Usually based on the impropriety of one group taking advantage of another lesser group for some type of gain.

James is rebuking this behavior, calling out wicked rich behavior, providing full condemnation.

James now advises the oppressed, poor, and faithful to the Lord, calling for patience and faith, looking forward to the coming of the Lord and the treasures laid up in heaven.

James 5:7-11

Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.
Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh.
Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.
Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience.
Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.

Matthew 5:12

Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

2 Timothy 4:8

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.

We are to be patient and faithful, looking forward to the coming of the Lord, to not "grudge" against each other. Our reward is in heaven.
God will take care of all our needs, all we need to do is lay up our rewards in heaven, to seek after and love the Lord our God with all our hearts, all our mind, and all our soul, and love our neighbor as ourselves.

Luke 12:24

Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?

Philippians 4:19

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Matthew 7:7-12

Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:
For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?
Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?
If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?
Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.  

1 John 3:22-23

And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.
And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.

Aren't these great promises, we don't need worldly riches, we don't need the sins of the flesh, eyes, or the pride of life.
We need God's love, patience, and faithfulness. We need to believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, to be Holy as he is Holy.

We need to gentle submission, allowing God to work through us, to meet each and every spiritual and physical need.

And we will be rich, with the wealth that really matters!

Faith without Deeds - James 2:14-26

James 2:14

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

As Christians what good is it to say we have faith, but don't live in, or through our faith? Are we just boasting, saying we have idle belief? If we truly have faith wouldn't we have something (good works) to show for it? Can that faith without works produce Salvation?

Ephesians 2:8-9

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Not of works, lest any man should boast.

James was not talking about this faith, this faith is heart belief, not head belief, this is faith provided by God from faith to faith through grace. A gift of God, it has nothing to do with how good we think we are, or how much we think we have done, or donated.
It is the belief in the heart that God sent His only begotten Son to die on the cross for our sins.
It is the heart belief that we are sinners and undeserving of the greatest gift ever given.
It is the knowledge, acceptance, obedience, and trust in God, His Son, and the Holy Spirit.
This faith is the faith of salvation, and this faith will have good works.

James is showing us the difference between true faith and "pretend" faith.

James 2:15-16
If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,
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?

Cheap words and charitable wishes do nothing, we must live our faith, love our neighbor, brother, and sisters as ourselves. Provide for the needs of others. What good is it for those in need if we do not provide, the stomach is not filled with kind words, or the back clothed with wishes. Salvation is not witnessed without testimony, faith to faith, ministering to those in need.

Hebrews 6:10

For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

John 15:5

I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

John 21:16

He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

James 2:17-18

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

Faith without works is dead, true faith, God living in Christians and Christians living in God, must produce good works, fruit, evidence of God, evidence of real faith.

James 2:19

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

Matthew 8:29

And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time?

Acts 19:15

And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?

Even devils and demons know that there is one God.

James 2:20-23

But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?
Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?
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.

James is rebuking those with head belief, those that are not living by faith. Providing an example of true faith, showing how the trust and obedience in God by offering his son on the alter, manifest as works with faith, fulfilled scripture, and was counted for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.

James 2:24-26

Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.
Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?
For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

We are able to discern our Salvation, and other Christians by our works, deeds, and behavior, along with our knowledge, acceptance, obedience, and trust in God, His Son, and the Holy Spirit (True Faith), not just head faith, because even the devils and demons know and fear God.

The body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also...

We must live our faith, we must live our lives for the Lord.
Every moment of every day!

Fruit of the Spirit

Galatians 5:22-23

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.

Love - This love is not warm fuzzy feelings, this love is God's love, this is unselfish, unabashed, genuine love of God and others as you love yourself. This love is good will and devotion to others. This love is given freely without deserving, and with no expectations.

Matthew 22:37-40

Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
This is the first and great commandment.
And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

John 13:34-35

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.

John 15:9-13

As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.
If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.
These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Joy - Happiness does not equal joy. Joy is completely independent of happiness, joy is not based on the good or bad things that happen in life, it is based on God's purpose for your life rather than the daily circumstances.

John 15:11

These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.

James 1:2-3

My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;
Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

1 Peter 1:8-9

Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:
Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

Psalm 27:6

And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.

John 16:22

And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.

Romans 14:17

For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

Peace - Is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of tranquility, the contentment of knowing that God controls the events of the day. The ability to turn life over to God and His Will.

Philippians 4:7

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 

John 14:27

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

John 16:33

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Proverbs 16:7

When a man's ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.

Long-suffering - Patience, lenience, perseverance, steadfastness. Enduring the trials and tribulations of daily life without lashing out.

2 Peter 3:9

The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

Ephesians 4:2-3

With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;
Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

Romans 5:3-4

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;
And patience, experience; and experience, hope:

Gentleness - Kindness, meeting the needs of others, and the absence of malice.

Proverbs 15:1

A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

Colossians 4:5-6

Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.
Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

2 Timothy 2:24-26

And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

Goodness - The character of God, to do good and see good done.

Psalm 23:6

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

James 1:17

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.

 Galatians 6:9-10

And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

Matthew 12:35

A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.

Titus 3:8

This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.

Faith - Unwavering knowledge, belief, and trust in God, his Son, and the Holy Ghost, God's purpose for our life and His plan for the world.

Hebrews 11:1-3

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
For by it the elders obtained a good report.
Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.

2 Samuel 22:31

As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him.

2 Kings 18:5

He trusted in the LORD God of Israel; so that after him was none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor any that were before him.

Romans 1:17

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

1 Corinthians 2:5

That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

2 Corinthians 5:7

(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)

2 Corinthians 3:4-5

And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;

Meekness - Meekness is not weakness. Meekness is the selfless, humble, controlled power of God in the Christians life.

Matthew 5:5

Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

1 Peter 5:5

Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.

Psalm 25:9

The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.

James 4:6

But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

1 Peter 3:15-16

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.

Temperance - Control, self control, allowing God's will and Spirit to control our fleshly desires, all things in moderation. Putting away of self, selfish desires, separation from the world.

Titus 2:12

Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

2 Peter 1:5-8

And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;
And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;
And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.
For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Proverbs 25:28

He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.

Philippians 4:5

Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:
But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

 Against such there is no law. - Living in fellowship with God, His Son, and the Holy Ghost (Spirit), partaking of these fruits, provides the Christian liberty and freedom under God's wonderful grace.

Galatians 5:1

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

Galatians 5:13-14

For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

Galatians 5:18

But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.

John 8:36

If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.  

By God's wonderful love and grace, we are free from the consequences of sin. We have the promise of everlasting life. Abundant and full life, full of joy through our Lord and Savior.

Soul Winning

Jesus told us to teach all nations, to lead others to Christ.

Matthew 28:19-20

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 
Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Mark 16:15

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

We are to go into the world, your neighborhood, school, and workplace proclaiming the good news of the gospel, the news that Jesus Christ died for our sins. We should be working to win souls for Christ. We are ambassadors for Christ to reconcile the world to God.

2 Corinthians 5:20

Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. 

This is our most important job, to win souls for Christ, we should prepare ourselves for soul winning. It won't be an easy task, but God gives us the tools to succeed.

Ephesians 6:10-18

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

This will be a spiritual battle, a fight for the salvation of the unsaved, so we must prepare with the Word of God, prayer, the fellowship of God, and our comforter the Holy Spirit.

2 Timothy 3:16-17

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 

Romans 1:17

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Romans 10:17

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

We use the Word of God by our faith to witness, teach, and proclaim by the Holy Spirit to convict and stir the unsaved to belief and faith in our Savior.

The Lord sent us out two by two, so that we could be a witness and support to each other during the spiritual battle of spreading the gospel. So one could be in continual prayer during the witness, in fellowship with the Holy Ghost for support and comfort.

Mark 6:7

And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave them power over unclean spirits;

Luke 10:1

After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come. 

We must prepare with prayer, having the right mind, it is not us, or I, or me that is doing anything, but God and the Holy Ghost working through us to reveal the truth of the gospel to the world.

Colossians 4:2-6

Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;
Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:
That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak.
Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.
Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.

Ephesians 6:18-20

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,
For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. 

We are praying for God through the Holy Spirit to do the work through us to provide the opportunity and words we need to proclaim His message.

Luke 12:12

For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.

Keep all of these scriptures and truths with you, hide them in your heart because satan has blinded and deceived the world. The things of God are foolishness to the unsaved.

1 Corinthians 1:18-21

For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.
For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.
Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?
For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.

1 Corinthians 2:14

But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

Through the preparation of Godly fellowship and prayer, asking God to provide us boldness and opportunity to share his Word with the unbeliever, as we go out and witness to the world one soul at a time.

We ask -
Do you know Jesus Christ as your personal Savior?
Has anyone shown you from God's Word how to be saved?
Are you interested in spiritual things?
Do you know that you would go to heaven if you died today?

If the answer to any of these is yes, gently and lovingly ask for their witness, be sure of their salvation, fellowship with them, give God the glory for their salvation.

If the answer is no, or if their witness is not true, ask if you can show them from God's Word how they can have salvation, God's redemption and forgiveness of sin.

If they won't let you share the gospel, gently and lovingly thank them for their time, if possible present them with a tract, invite them to church if they will, and move on.

If they would like to hear more of God's Word, the Lord has opened their hearts to receive the gospel, then move to a comfortable place and begin sharing God's Word.

As you share the plan of salvation, do not be in a hurry, cover each step slowly and carefully, read the scripture slowly and deliberately, prayerfully. Have the unbeliever read the scripture out loud. You being in prayer as they are reading.

John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Ask what does this say to you? What is God trying to say? Help them with the love of God and that God does not want them to perish, they can have everlasting life.
Go on to have the unbeliever read the next verses to show why they will perish without God.

Romans 3:10

As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:

Romans 3:23

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

Romans 6:23a

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Notice the a: part of Romans 6:23a For the wages of sin is death; We will get to the b part after the next verse.

Ask what do these verses say to you? What is God saying to you. It should help to show that we have all sinned and will perish because of our sin and unrighteousness.
Have them read the next verse.

Romans 5:8

But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

What does that mean to them? What is God saying? Re-reference John 3:16 as a help. Reiterate if needed that God loves us so much that Christ died for us. Notice the b part of the next verse.

Romans 6:23b

For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Notice the b: part of Romans 6:23b but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. God has provided eternal life for us through Jesus Christ our Lord.

What does that mean? What is God saying? Would they like to know how to be saved?

Revelation 3:20

Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

Romans 10:9-13

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.
For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him.
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

What does this mean? What is God saying? Would they like to be saved? Are they ready to confess their sins, open the door and be saved? Would they like to believe on Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord, call on the name of the Lord and be saved?

If they would like to be saved, if they desire to repent and turn away from their sins and follow Jesus Christ, and honestly mean every word, then by praying this prayer God will save them.

Let them know that God knows their heart, and if they don't mean this with all their heart, don't pray it because they won't be saved.

Have them pray the following prayer:

Confessing to God that I am a sinner, and believing that the Lord Jesus Christ died for my sins on the cross and was raised for my justification, I do now receive and confess Him as my personal Savior.

With all gentleness and loving kindness praise God for their salvation. Pray with them, and for them praising God with thanks for a new member in the Body of Christ.

Now we should provide assurance of salvation, invite them to church to proclaim their salvation and be baptized, the first act of obedience.

Have them read the following verses -

John 5:24

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. 

John 10:28-29

And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 
My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.

John 20:31

But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

2 Corinthians 5:17

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 

What does that mean? What is God saying? Exclaim how wonderful and great it is to be saved protected by God and a new creature.

Invite them to come to church, invite them to be baptized, encourage them to now immerse themselves in the Body of Christ and grow in spirit and fellowship.

Hebrews 10:25

Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

2 Peter 3:18

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

Mark 16:16

He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

Acts 2:41

Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. 

Romans 6:4

Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

Have them read the verses, fellowship with them, if you can, give them a New Testament or show them how to load the Bible on their smart phone or tablet.
If you are comfortable with it give them your phone number.
Invite them to get involved with other believers.

This is a great online resource for reading the Bible through in one year: http://oneyearbibleonline.com/

The Gideons provide a Bible App that contains sections and verses for helps in the time of need, help with life's problems, and Christian character for Godly living in today's world, as well as the plan of Salvation. This Bible App will even read itself to you!
http://gideons.bible.is/

Give God the thanks, glory, and praise for the salvation of a new convert.

Faith

My dad and I were chatting over the last few days about the difference between faith and belief. It can be easy to gloss over the difference. Perhaps to confuse the terms to convey the same meaning. I admit, for me to put it into words was difficult at first. I had to really think about it. For a Christian faith is a very important concept and action.
Hebrews 11 is a great chapter about faith.

Hebrews 11

1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
2 For by it the elders obtained a good report.
3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.
5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.
6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.
9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:
10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.
11 Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.
12 Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable.
13 These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.
14 For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country.
15 And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned.
16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.
17 By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son,
18 Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called:
19 Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.
20 By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.
21 By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff.
22 By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.
23 By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king's commandment.
24 By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter;
25 Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;
26 Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.
27 By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king: for he endured, as seeing him who is invisible.
28 Through faith he kept the passover, and the sprinkling of blood, lest he that destroyed the firstborn should touch them.
29 By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.
30 By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.
31 By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.
32 And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:
33 Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions,
34 Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.
35 Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:
36 And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment:
37 They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;
38 (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth.
39 And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise:
40 God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.

Faith is substance of things hoped for, and evidence of things unseen, showing that faith offers both substance and evidence, it is more than just belief. Hebrews 11 shows us that faith is action taken on behalf of belief and trust. Faith is both substance and evidence of our belief and trust in God. Verse by verse, in this chapter we see actions taken because of belief and trust. We see obedience to God, because of the action taken on belief, trust, and obedience, we see faith, faith that was then counted for righteousness, from Able, Noah, Abraham and Sara, Jacob, Moses, David, Samuel, and the prophets. All of these performed great actions and realized God's great promises, because they believed, trusted, and obeyed God. That in turn provided substance and evidence of God's will and righteousness - faith.

2 Samuel 22:31

As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him.

2 Kings 18:5

He trusted in the LORD God of Israel; so that after him was none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor any that were before him.

Matthew 14:28-31

And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

Peter believed, trusted, obeyed, and took action, exercised faith and walked on the water towards Jesus, it was only when Peter's belief waned was his faith diminished, and he began to sink.

Romans 1:17

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

John 3:16

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Romans 10:13

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.  

1 John 1:9

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Romans 10:17

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Ephesians 2:8

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

Here we have an example of faith from a Christian to an unbeliever witnessing about God and Jesus showing from God's word how to believe, call upon the name of the Lord, confess their sins, and be saved. It takes more than belief for the Christian and the unbeliever! We have the action of the Christian witnessing, having trust and confidence in the Lord, living by faith, we have the Word of God imparting both belief and faith in the unbeliever to take action to call upon the name of the Lord for salvation. Then by the grace of God through faith is the unbeliever saved.

How wonderful is that?

Psalm 9:10

And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee. 

Christians live by faith, we should do everything by faith in our Lord, Savior, and God. The action of belief and trust in God, the action of obedience.

2 Corinthians 3:4-5

And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:
Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;

Ephesians 1:13-15

In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,

1 Corinthians 2:5

That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

2 Corinthians 5:7

(For we walk by faith, not by sight:) 

James 2:14

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

James 2:17-18

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

Romans 1:5

By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name: 

Romans 16:26

But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:

Faith is the action of belief, trust, and obedience to God, that provides the substance and evidence of things not seen, our Lord God, Mighty Creator and Redeemer, through Him all things are possible.