Be Doers Of The Word
Be Doers Of The Word
The Book of James is one of the most practical books in the Bible, challenging us not just to hear the Word but to live it out. James 1:22-25 (NIV) states:
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.”
Knowledge vs. Application
James warns against being educated far above our level of obedience. We may have head knowledge of Scripture, but if it doesn’t lead to transformation, it is useless.
Think of fitness: You can know all the best workout routines, understand nutrition science, and watch endless videos about weight loss—but none of it matters if you don’t apply it. The same is true with God’s Word. Reading it and listening to sermons won’t change us unless we live it out.
Jesus taught this principle in Matthew 7:24-27, comparing those who hear His words and act on them to a wise man building on a solid foundation, while those who hear but don’t apply His teachings are like a foolish man building on sand.
Three Ways to Engage with God’s Word
James outlines three key responses to Scripture:
- Be a Receiver of the Word (Preparation)
James 1:19-21 urges believers to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” To receive God’s Word, we must prepare our hearts, removing distractions and sinful barriers.
Jesus’ parable of the four soils in Matthew 13 illustrates that only those with receptive hearts will bear fruit from hearing His Word.
Practical steps:
-Pray before reading Scripture: “God, soften my heart to receive Your Word.”
-Take notes during sermons and reflect on key points.
-Approach church with expectancy, ready to be changed.
- Be a Listener of the Word (Information)
Listening goes beyond hearing—it requires attention, meditation, and understanding.
James 1:23-24 warns against being like someone who looks in a mirror and forgets their reflection. Likewise, listening without applying God’s Word is pointless.
Practical steps:
-Engage in active listening: Take notes, ask questions, and seek understanding.
-Memorize Scripture to help internalize its truth.
-Utilize Bible resources such as podcasts, apps, and study guides to deepen comprehension.
- Be a Doer of the Word (Transformation)
James 1:25 highlights that those who do the Word will be blessed. Transformation happens when we apply God’s truth to our lives.
Examples of being a doer:
-If you read about encouragement, speak life into someone’s day.
-If you study forgiveness, choose to forgive someone you’ve been holding resentment against.
-If you hear a message on generosity, find ways to bless others with your resources.
Faith in Action
James 2:14-20 reminds us that faith without works is dead. True belief in Jesus leads to real-life changes—kindness, patience, generosity, and obedience.
Many people seek accountability in areas like fitness, not because they don’t know what to do, but because they need help doing it. The same applies to our faith. Surround yourself with godly mentors and community to encourage active obedience.
It Only Works If You Work It
God doesn’t need more knowledgeable Christians; He needs faithful doers of His Word. It’s not about just knowing what’s right—it’s about living it out daily. Luke 11:28 (NIV) affirms, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”
Let’s be believers who are not just hearers but doers—people God can trust to live out His truth in a world that desperately needs it.
***This blog post was adapted from a sermon preached by Pastor Jason Kimbrow at Legacy Church. Click the “Watch Sermon” button below to watch to the sermon in its entirety.***