What is True Religion?
(Part II)
James 1:22–27
Religion- A set of beliefs concerning the cause, nature, and purpose of the universe…usually involving devotional and ritual observances, and often containing a moral code governing the conduct of human affairs. True religion is expressed in:

I. Commitment to Accept (v.19 -20)
II. Consistent to Apply (v.21)
A. By being and effectual doer of what the Bible commands (v.22)
a. By not being self-deceived:
1. What is the primary indicator of self-deception:
b. Illustration of Two Responses:
1. An improper response (v. 23-24)
2. A proper response (v.25)

III. Charitable in our Assertions (v.26)
A. Our Speech should be thought out before we speak (v.26) [cf., James 1:19]
B. Speech should not be unjustly critical of others.

IV. Compassionate in our Actions (v.27)
A. Pure religion helps those who cannot return the favor. (Isa. 1:11-17)
B. Pure religion seeks opportunities to minister to others (James 2:14-17; 1 John 3:16-18)
C. God views ministry to others as ministry to Himself (Matt. 25:31-46)
D. Pure religion is separation from worldly goals. (1 John 2:15-17; Gen. 19:1-29)
E. Godly conduct is a reflection of one’s character. Do you exhibit these character traits?
a. Love- a commit of the will towards another.
b. Joy- gladness of heart.
c. Peace- freedom from inner turmoil.
d. Patience- state of inner calm when provoked.
e. Kindness- to show benevolence.
f. Goodness- generous and morally excellent.
g. Faithfulness- to be loyal.
h. Gentleness- to be humble of heart.
i. Self-controlled- to dominate one’s own faculties, passions and prejudices.

Points to Ponder:
1. Participating in external religious activity is useless for spiritual growth.
2. Vertical religion must have horizontal expressions through ministering to other people.
3. Are we taking the time to minister to other people?


Roy B. Zuck, A Biblical Theology of the New Testament, electronic ed. (Chicago: Moody Press, 1994), 426.
Greg L. Bahnsen, Presuppositional Apologetics: Stated and Defended, ed. Joel McDurmon (Nacogdoches, TX: Covenant Media Press, 2008), 94–95.
Zane C. Hodges, “Hebrews,” in BKC, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 2 (Wheaton: Victor Books, 1985), 793.
David R. Anderson, Triumph through Trials: The Epistle of James (Grace Theology Press, 2013), 64.
John F. MacArthur Jr., James, MacArthur New Testament Commentary (Chicago: Moody Press, 1998), 85.
Ibid., 88.