Week of May 15, 2011

The Root of All Sin
James 4:11-17
Series: The Book of James
We have all heard that pride is the root of all sin.  In this passage, James contrasts what he was saying previously (v. 6-10) about how through humility we will receive God's grace.  We must come to Jesus on His terms, not ours.  Now, James talks about what the actions of pride produce.  Pride is the root issue when we slander others and when we arrogantly make plans without Him being a part of the process.  Pastor Jesse noted that pride is essentially living as if God doesn't exist, regardless of what you say.

1. Read v. 11-12  In these verses, what do you see as reasons we aren’t to speak ill of each other?

2. Read v. 13-17  Again, pride is living as if God doesn’t exist…how do you see pride displayed in these verses?

3. Jesse stressed that when we operate out of pride, God's grace is blocked from our lives and we essentially say to God, I don't need you.  In this passage, pride can be displayed in how we speak and in how we make our plans.  Where have you seen slander occur in your own life?

4. When have you made plans and, sooner or later, realized that God was not a part of that process at all?

5. Is there an area in your life where the Holy Spirit is convicting you of either speaking against fellow believers or making plans without His involvement?  How do you need to respond?  How can the group help?

6. What are some practical things you can do so that you can see and speak of other believers in the same way that God sees them (created by Him, forgiven by Him, loved by Him)?

7.  What are some steps you can take to ensure that God is always a part of your planning process?    

Homework:
Matt. 7:1-2; Luke 6:37-38; Rom. 14:10-13; Eph. 4:29-32; Col. 3:8-17; 1 Peter 2:1
...about slandering others
1 Cor. 4:17-19; 16:5-7
...examples of making plans but allowing the Lord to guide the planning process
*Take some time in your devotions this week to ask God where He wants you to specifically have Him be central in your planning process.  How will you make the necessary adjustments?