Wet Cement

James 3:1-2, Bill Howe

January 22, 2024 Bill Howe Devotional - Growing in Wisdom 1

By Bill Howe, Retired Pastor of Evangel Baptist Church, Lewistown, PA

Read James 3:1-2.

Years ago, Bob and I waited for a concrete truck to pour a new sidewalk in front of the church. It was a hot summer day, and Bob warned me that because of the heat, we would have to work quickly before the cement “set up.” Once set, the concrete was permanently solid and no longer pliable. Well, the truck arrived, and we (mostly Bob) worked as hard as possible to shovel, level, and finish the sidewalk. Although we sold that building and moved to another location, I am proud to say that the sidewalk remains to this day.

In James 3:1-2, the ancient pastor admonished his brothers in Christ to be cautious about wanting to be a teacher in the local church. He states that teachers will receive greater scrutiny and judgment by both God and man for the words they speak and their manner of speech outside the realm of teaching. Like concrete, the early believers were pliable in what they believed. Also, like concrete, once taught, their teaching and lifestyle would harden and solidify the new believers’ walk with Christ.

James wanted to make sure the teachers’ calling, content, and conduct were not only true but that their regular conversation backed up that teaching. The result: the students would “set up” like their teachers. The Chief Inspector would one day evaluate the finished product and either approve or condemn the teaching that was faulty, self-serving, or inaccurate. James realized that sound doctrine would build strong believers whose work would endure.

I passed by that old building the other day. It’s now a health and fitness facility. It was totally renovated to its new purpose, but that sidewalk still remains, a testament to the church that came before.

James realized that sound doctrine would build strong believers whose work would endure.

Reflective Questions:

What warning is James giving to those who desire to be teachers in the church?
In what ways can the “setup” of new believers be influenced by the teaching and lifestyle of their teachers? What is the significance of James emphasizing the importance of sound doctrine in building strong believers whose work endures?
Who are the spiritual teachers in your life? What are some specific ways that you can pray for them?

Memory Verse:

For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. James 3:2

Prayer:

Dear God, I am thankful for those in my life who teach me spiritual truths. I pray for them and ask that you help them as they prepare to teach You Word. Give them clarity and understanding. Protect them from our enemy. Help me also, to be a positive influence on others and point people to You.