"Is Our Faith Alive?"

In this week's message, Pastor Gary focuses on the theme of "Is Our Faith Alive?" through a deep dive into the Book of James, specifically the second half of chapter 2. He emphasizes that true faith is not merely about belief but must translate into action. Using James 1:22 as a foundational verse—"be doers of the word and not hearers only"—Pastor Gary challenges the congregation to reflect on their faith and asks whether it is active or stagnant. He urges believers to move beyond empty words and to acknowledge their faith through actions that help others in need, showcasing how genuine faith always responds with compassion. Pastor Gary outlines four key points regarding active faith: it requires acknowledgment, demands action, involves sacrifice, and ultimately reveals true salvation. He illustrates these concepts with examples from Scripture, such as the faith of Abraham and Rahab, highlighting that real faith often comes at a cost and sometimes means stepping outside one’s comfort zone. Pastor Gary encourages his audience to actively engage in service within their community, thereby displaying God's character to the world around them. He wraps up with a call to prayer, urging attendees to reflect on their walk with Jesus and consider how they can put their faith into action, ultimately ensuring their faith is alive and impactful.