Introduction: This week we celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ that resulted in salvation for everyone who trusts in Him. But what happens to people who reject -- or simply neglect -- God’s offer of forgiveness?

Introduction: What does it mean to be “godly?” From where do we derive our standards for godly behavior? In today’s passage, James is going to give us a way to measure our spirituality, as well as offering three practical steps to becoming a godly person.

Introduction: James says that another measure of the authenticity of our faith is our ability to control our speech. Our tongue is a powerful organ that can destroy reputations, relationships, and even churches.

Introduction: In our study of James, we have seen that “saving faith is always accompanied by good works.” Today we are going to look at the supreme example of saving faith found in the life of Abraham.

Introduction: Today we will look at one of the most controversial passages in the New Testament describing the vital relationship between faith and works. Is faith alone sufficient to save a person, or does God require faith and works? Buckle your seatbelts because James’ answer may surprise you!

Introduction: Do you have genuine faith? Before answering too quickly, James encourages us to examine another area of our lives -- how we judge other people. Do you tend to judge people by their external circumstances: skin color, education, or wealth? Your answer to that question reveals the authenticity of your faith.

Introduction: How do you know if you’re really saved? One test of the authenticity of your faith is your response to the Word of God.

This episode is a recent sermon by Dr. Ben Lovvorn on Romans 12:1–2, preached at First Baptist Dallas on the first Sunday of 2025. God desires for you to experience a profound new beginning—one that so transforms your very nature that it becomes evident to everyone around you. Dr. Lovvorn challenges the church to reflect on what it means to make pleasing Jesus Christ our one desire. As Christ’s disciples, we must all answer this simple question as we begin the year: What’s your next step?

Dr. Ben Lovvorn serves as the Senior Executive Pastor at First Baptist Dallas.

If you need some help taking your next step, we want to help you! Go here for resources and to complete our online form: firstdallas.org/nextstep

For an incredible library of biblical resources from our Senior Pastor, Dr. Robert Jeffress, visit Pathway to Victory: ptv.org

To financially support the mission of First Baptist Dallas, you can give online here: firstdallas.org/fbdgive