This will be the first time in doing this but a look into James 1:23-24 vs the Michael Jackson song Man in the mirror
James 1:23-24: Describes the “mirror” as the Word of God. When we look into it, we see ourselves as we truly are, revealing our spiritual state, our shortcomings, and what we should be doing according to divine principles. The problem arises when we “forget what we look like” – meaning we fail to act on the truths revealed.”Man in the Mirror”: The “man in the mirror” is literally oneself. Jackson urges us to look at our own reflection, our own actions, and our own hearts. It’s a call to honest self-assessment before attempting to fix the world.
“Man in the Mirror”: The “man in the mirror” is literally oneself. Jackson urges us to look at our own reflection, our own actions, and our own hearts. It’s a call to honest self-assessment before attempting to fix the world.
The Call to Action, Not Just Observation:
James 1:22: Explicitly states, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” The point of seeing yourself in the mirror of God’s Word is not just intellectual understanding, but practical application. Without action, listening is futile.
“Man in the Mirror”: The song’s central thesis is “If you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and then make a change.” It’s not enough to lament the world’s problems; one must actively “change his ways” (the man in the mirror) to be part of the solution. Both emphasize that hearing/seeing is insufficient without doing.From Individual Change to Global Impact
From Individual Change to Global Impact:
James 1: While focusing on individual righteousness and faith, the broader context of James speaks to how transformed individuals will naturally live out a faith that cares for the vulnerable (James 1:27: “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.”). Personal change leads to righteous living and good works in the community.
“Man in the Mirror”: This is the direct, explicit message. Jackson sees the “kids in the street with not enough to eat,” the “broken heart,” and the “deeply scarred willow,” and concludes that these global issues can only be truly addressed when individuals take responsibility for their own part and initiate personal transformation. He sings about “healing the world” by starting with oneself.
In essence, both passages teach that
Self-awareness is the starting point: We must first recognize what needs changing within ourselves.
- Action is paramount: Merely seeing or knowing isn’t enough; true transformation requires intentional effort and changed behavior.
What good is it if we look into the word of God saying we believe but don’t make the change. The topic to learn is making it count. A change within and without. A reflection of truth both you and the world can see within your life. Is your life a reflection of Christ by your deeds and what you speak.
Let it be said, so let it be done. John Corum Givinhope Ministry.
Givin H.O.P.E. Ministry of Evangelism 