Read the following two verses and discuss how each them emphasize God’s grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone

Galatians 2:16 a man is not justified by the works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the Law; since by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified. 

Eph 2:8-10 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”

When James uses the term “works” in chapter two he is referring to “works” he has already mentioned throughout the book. What are some “works” that come from faith that James could be referring to in chapter two?

What does it look like to have a faith that is in word only? Why is this “kind of” faith so dangerous? 

To teach salvation by faith plus works is to teach a false gospel. What are the problems with teaching faith or works or even faith and works for the Christian life? Why must we make sure to teach faith that produces works?  

A demonic faith is one that finds assurance in simply knowing the right things about God but never acting upon them by faith? How have you experienced this in your own life? How did you turn from such false faith? 

While James teaches that faith in Christ alone will lead to works, why must we refuse to look to our works as the assurance of our salvation? Why must we look to Christ alone as assurance of our salvation?  

True faith acts on the promises of God. How might you specifically act on God’s promises to you in Christ? Are there ways God might be calling you to obey like Abraham? Are there specific risks God might be calling you to make like Rahab?

Trusting in Christ alone, what works of faith or act of obedience do you need to walk in this week?