September 8, 2024

“How Can You Call Yourself a Christian?”

A Sermon for Proper 18, Year B (2024), from James 2:1-10

Ryan Ahlgrim, Pastor of First Mennonite Church in Richmond, Virginia, quotes James 2:1, saying, “My brothers and sisters, do not claim the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ of glory while showing partiality.” And then he paraphrases: “Don’t claim to be a Christian if you’re showing partiality. Don’t claim to follow Jesus if you are making preferences of one group over another group!” Ahlgrim is understanding. He knows from his own experience how easy it is to slip into that mode. But James insists it is contrary to the spirit of Christ. So, what do we do about it? Push the play button and hear Ryan Ahlgrim tackle the problem of prejudice in this refreshingly honest sermon.

No manuscript available.