Facta, non Verba
Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. ––James 1:26-27
The Latin expression facta, non verba translates to “actions, not words.” It sums up a lot of the Gospel, especially Jesus’ time on earth (covered in the four Gospels and the book of Acts).
Arguably the most well-known verse on this subject is James 2:17: “In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” But there’s more to the picture than just that one verse. As we know, context is everything—especially when it comes to Scripture. In today’s opening verse, James is saying that if you call yourself a believer, but can’t control your tongue, your religion is worthless. And then he makes a big reveal:
Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you. ––James 1:27, nlt
Two things to prove your genuine faith? Caring for the “least of these” and not allowing the world to pollute you.
This section in James is key for God’s man: if we truly want to put our faith where our mouth is, we will take care of those who are down and out; and we will maintain a lifestyle of purity. Is the other stuff important (tithing, prayer, being a loyal friend, etc.)? Of course.
Jesus prioritizes facta, non verba this way:
Jesus replied: “’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” ––Matthew 22:37-39
If we truly want to live a faith that is genuine, it’s going to involve loving your neighbor—no matter what they look like, what their citizenship status is, or where they come from. There are no qualifiers or disclaimers; no hidden clauses or addendums. No complicated, but yet, not simple either.
Isn’t that just like Jesus?
Father, help me operate in a facta, non verba mindset, acting out my faith and helping the helpless wherever You present an opportunity.