Being a Doer, Not Merely a Hearer
Just about the time we feel nearly overwhelmed with busy-ness, crowded calendars, and “to-do” lists that just grow out at the bottom as we mark out items at the top, here comes another “thing” we’re expected to take on. So what in the world is being a “doer” of the word? It sounds somewhat like a made-up word, which makes us wonder just how seriously we should take this verse from the letter of James.
This letter includes a number of thought-provoking nuggets that provide insight into how we are called to live in accordance with our calling as Christ’s followers. In chapter 1, we are given advice on how to interact with one another, and how our conduct witnesses to our faith.
James 1:19b, 20, 21b, 22: “. . . let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger; for your anger does not produce God’s righteousness. . . . welcome the implanted word that has the power to save your souls. But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers.”
That term “the implanted word” is not a commonly used phrase, but it tells us that through God’s grace, his word becomes an integral part of who we are, giving us the wisdom and the ability to then be “doers”. James goes on to discuss faith and works and how they cannot be separated. Reading Chapter 2 we feel as though we’re hearing a debate, with questions and statements comparing and contrasting faith without works – he even cites examples from the Old Testament! Verse 18 essentially sums up the message: “But someone will say, ‘You have faith and I have works.’ Show me your faith apart from your works, and I by my works will show you my faith.'” Referring to Abraham, he says, “You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was brought to completion by the works.” (v. 22)
There is little doubt that faith and works are inextricably bound together. And our “works” vary so greatly, as each of us have individual abilities and opportunities. Some individuals are well suited for teaching, providing music, or working in specific areas of need within the congregation, and everyone benefits from their gifts. It’s challenging to identify our own gifts, so we need to be open to God’s guidance to the task for which he finds us suited, because there is a need for what we have to offer.
The introduction to James in The Lutheran Study Bible includes this insightful quote: “James does not present the techniques for effective change. Rather, he affirms the power for change that is ours through the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (William Hulme)
That “implanted word” of God’s gift of wisdom affirms human freedom and the power to use God’s gifts to change those things that can and should be changed. And that’s how we become doers!
Your friend in Christ,
Mary Rogers