Lifegroup Discussion Guide

True Faith

Brandon Lindell

Scripture

James 2:20
“Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless?”

For the full passage, read James 2:20–26.

Main Idea

True faith is more than a label—it is a living faith proven by action. James teaches that faith without works is dead, pointing to Abraham’s obedience and Rahab’s courageous trust as examples. Real faith believes God and moves in obedience, even when it’s difficult or doesn’t make sense.

1. The Principle

The reason there is no fruit in your life is that there is no root in your life.

Why do you think it’s possible for someone to believe they have faith but show little evidence of it in their life?

2. The Patriarch

Obedience doesn’t earn the blessing; it positions you to receive it.

Is there something God has clearly asked you to do that you’ve been delaying? What makes obedience difficult in those moments?

3. The Prostitute

You don’t go directly from belief to blessing. You go from action to blessing.

Rahab’s story shows that no one is disqualified from God’s grace. How does her story challenge the way we sometimes view our past or others’ past?

Call To Action

Reflect:

When you take an honest look at your life through the lens of James’ teaching on fake and true faith, which one best describes your faith?

Respond:

This week, put your faith into action by taking intentional steps that show the fruit of your faith and bring blessing to others.

Remember:

A label won’t save you. A decision you made as a child won’t save you. A family name won’t save you. Only living, active, obedient faith saves you.

Care Form

If someone in your group needs care,

We want to be there for them. The James River Care team is designed to walk alongside people in every season – to celebrate life’s best moment and offer support through the challenging ones. We want to be there for the following life events:

Marriage
Births
Hospitalization and deaths
Questions or concerns.

Please submit a request at: jamesriver.church/care-form

Additional Leader Resources

Please please visit jamesriver.church/lg-resources