Born by the Word of Truth: Living as Firstfruits of God’s Creation
Key Scripture: “He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.” — James 1:18
Introduction
The epistle of James is often celebrated for its practical wisdom and profound spiritual insights. In James 1:18, we encounter a verse that reflects the heart of God’s plan for humanity: His divine will to give us new life through the Word of Truth, making us the firstfruits of His creation. This verse reveals the transformative power of God’s Word, the purpose of our new birth, and our responsibility as His chosen people.
In this sermon, we will explore three key aspects of this verse:
- The Divine Initiative in Our Salvation
- The Power of the Word of Truth
- Our Role as the Firstfruits of Creation
We will also relate these themes to other Bible passages that reinforce this message.
1. The Divine Initiative in Our Salvation
James begins by emphasizing God’s sovereign choice in bringing us into His family: “He chose to give us birth.” This statement underscores that salvation is not something we earn or achieve through our efforts but is a gift from God, rooted in His grace and love.
Ephesians 1:4-5 echoes this truth:
“For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love, he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.”
God’s choice to give us new birth reflects His eternal plan. He desires a relationship with us, not because of our merit, but because of His unchanging nature of love and mercy.
2. The Power of the Word of Truth
James explains that this new birth happens “through the Word of Truth.” This phrase points to the gospel—the good news of Jesus Christ—as the means through which we are spiritually reborn.
Paul, in Romans 10:17, writes:
“Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.”
The Word of Truth has the power to transform hearts and bring life where there was once spiritual death. Jesus Himself declared in John 6:63:
“The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life.”
When we hear and receive the gospel, the Holy Spirit works within us to bring about new birth. This is not just a change in our behavior but a complete transformation of our nature, as seen in 2 Corinthians 5:17:
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
The Word of Truth is not only the means of our new birth but also the foundation for our growth in faith. Through regular study, meditation, and application of God’s Word, we continue to be shaped into His likeness.
3. Our Role as the Firstfruits of Creation
James describes believers as “a kind of firstfruits of all he created.” This imagery of firstfruits comes from Old Testament practices where the first portion of the harvest was dedicated to God as a sign of gratitude and acknowledgment of His provision.
Exodus 23:19 instructs:
“Bring the best of the firstfruits of your soil to the house of the Lord your God.”
In the New Testament context, being the firstfruits means that we are set apart for God, dedicated to His service, and a testimony of what is to come. As firstfruits, we are a glimpse of the renewal and restoration God intends for all creation.
Romans 8:19-21 expands on this idea:
“For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.”
As firstfruits, we have a dual role:
- Reflecting God’s Glory: Our lives should reflect the transformative power of the gospel, serving as a witness to others.
- Anticipating Future Restoration: We live with the hope and assurance that God’s redemptive plan extends to all creation.
Living Out Our New Identity
Being born of the Word of Truth and designated as firstfruits carries practical implications for our daily lives:
A. Living in Holiness
As firstfruits, we are called to be holy, set apart for God’s purposes. 1 Peter 1:15-16 reminds us:
“But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”
Holiness is not about perfection but about intentional living that honors God in our thoughts, words, and actions.
B. Bearing Fruit for God’s Kingdom
Jesus said in John 15:8:
“This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.”
The fruit of our lives—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23)—should point others to Christ.
C. Sharing the Word of Truth
As recipients of the Word of Truth, we are also called to share it with others. Matthew 28:19-20 commissions us:
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”
Conclusion
James 1:18 offers us a profound reminder of who we are in Christ. God chose us, gave us new birth through His Word, and set us apart as the firstfruits of His creation.
Let us respond to this truth by living lives that reflect His glory, sharing the gospel with others, and anticipating the day when all creation will be restored. May we walk in the light of the Word of Truth, living as faithful firstfruits of His great harvest.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for choosing us and giving us new birth through the Word of Truth. Help us to live as Your firstfruits, reflecting Your glory in all we do. Empower us to share Your Word with others and remain faithful to our calling. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
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