James 1: 27 says, “Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”  This is the description of a genuine believer.  Not just someone that has made a profession or attends services, but a disciple of Jesus Christ. 

Look at those two qualifications carefully and see if you measure up.  First, there is the aspect of love.  James refers to it as demonstrating love to the unloved.  To “visit” carries the idea of helping or ministering to the needs of others.  In James’ mind, the two most needy types of individuals were orphans and disabled senior citizens.  These are the ones who because of their age or disabilities, could not provide for themselves.  James makes it clear that genuine Christ-likeness seeks to provide for these people’s needs (James 2: 14- 17).  This type of love goes beyond words.  This is action love, it is deeper than concern and stronger than emotion.

The second qualification is personal holiness.  James commands that if you are a genuine disciple, you must stay unspotted from the world.  James is commanding that we keep our lives unstained with the sin that is among us.  This is so difficult and I am constantly working on this myself.  The world’s philosophy and values are seen everywhere in our culture.  From the movies and music that are produced to the fashion trends that grip our society and drive our economy.  The world’s philosophy has a strong voice, even in churches. 

It is imperative that we keep our lives pure as John encouraged in 1 John 3:3 explains.  All believers are constantly cleaning out their lives because they know that their redeemer is coming.

What are you doing to stay pure in a impure world?  And what love are you living on those that need your help?

Thursday Evening Bible Study:

Our Thursday evening Bible study is the highlight of my week.  We have been averaging about 22 young adults every Thursday evening.  We usually start off with a complimentary supper and then we sing songs, have a “fun-time”, and then have our lesson.