IS MY RELIGION ACCEPTED BY GOD?

  James 1:26-27

Introduction:

    A.  This morning I want us to focus on the theme of religion

        based on our lesson text.

    B.  Let’s each one ascertain if his/her religion is accepted

        by God.

Four signs of a genuine religion:

I.  It ________________ the tongue.  James 1:26

    A.  Why is it necessary to be on constant alert to bridle

        the tongue?

        *  because the tongue controls the whole person. James

           3:2-6

        *  because the tongue determines the course of nature

           (course of life)  James 3:6

        *  because the tongue can not be completely tamed. 

           James 3:8

        *  because it is not appropriate to bless God and curse

           people with the same tongues.  James 3:10

    B.  We need wisdom from God to bridle the tongue.  James 3:

        13, 17

II.  It ____________for orphans and widows (the needy) James 1:27

    A.  Examples:  Acts 6:1-4; 1 Corinthians 16:1-4

III. It involves clean ______________. James 1:27; Romans 12:1-2

IV.  It is ______________ by God.  James 1:27 NIV; 2 Corinthians

    6:14-18

Conclusion:

    A.  Two practices to keep our religion on track: 

        fellowshipping with God’s people and continuing in God’s

        Word.