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hisincarnation, associated with the lowest class of society. He called this “mercy”
(Matthew 9 v 13).
The Early Church
Following the prophets, the apostles teach that true faith will inevitably showitself
through deeds of mercy (James 2 v 1–17). “This is how we know what loveis: Jesus
Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives forour brothers.
If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in needbut has no pity on
him, how can the love of God be in him?” (1 John 3v 16–17).
Within the church, wealth is to be shared very generously between rich andpoor (2
Corinthians 8 v 13–15). Materialism is still a grievous sin (James 5 v 1–6).
Challenge Point:
Following today’s reading in James 2 v 1 – 17, answer the following questions:
- Do you perceive the scenario James describes in verses 1 – 7 to be occurring in
your life or in your church? If so, in what ways does it manifest itself?
- James writes, ?For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one
point is guilty of breaking all of it? (verse 10). What does he mean by this? What
impact does he intend for it to have on his readers? How does he intend for them to
change their lives as a result of reading these words?
- What is the connection between verses 12 – 13 and verses 14 – 17?
- What does this passage tell us about God’s concern for the poor, and what are the
implications for us?

Friday
Read the Scripture references below as they relate to the topic.
There are many ways to “act justly” and “love mercy.” From Monday’s devotional
you will maybe be thinking of volunteering somewhere and giving back to someone
or a particular project / ministry. Below are different areas in which you can get
involved in:
Relief