Don’t Be Duped!

James 1:16-18

Introduction – Above all one must not be deceived concerning the character of God.

I. The Goodness of God – v. 17a

A. Its Misrepresentation

1. To Eve – See Genesis 3:1-6

2. To the prodigal son and his elder brother – See Luke 15:11-32

B. Its Manifestation

1. Gracious – See Titus 2:11, John 3:16, Romans 8:32

2. Generous – See Psalm 103:1-5

II. The Perfection of God – v. 17b

A. Illumination – See I John 1:5

B. Immutability – See Psalm 102:25-27

III. The Regenerative Power of God – v. 18

A. The Reception of the Word

The Gospel message heard and believed

B. Regeneration by the Spirit

Born again with life from above

C. The Result

New creatures in Christ Jesus showing forth the life of God

Application – Man’s Lack and God’s Supply

· Man is needy, but God gives good gifts unto him.

· Sinful man is in darkness, but God gives him light.

· Man is dead in trespasses and sins, but God in grace gives eternal life to all who believe the Word of God and trust the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior.