JAMES 5:13–20 “Remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins” (James 5:20). As we conclude our study of James, it may be helpful to step back and see how James organized his teaching and and how he related it … Continue reading “JAMES AND JESUS”
IN THE MIDST OF SUFFERING
JAMES 5:1–12 Above all, my brothers, do not swear—not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your “Yes” be yes, and your “No,” no, or you will be condemned (James 5:12). James returns to this theme of tribulation as he brings his letter to a close. He begins by issuing a warning … Continue reading “IN THE MIDST OF SUFFERING”
THE REPENTANT HEART
JAMES 4:1–17 Grieve, mourn, and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom (James 4:9). James continues to focus in on the subject of envy and its consequences in chapter 4. Is it possible that his concern with this subject reflects how he as Jesus’ brother acted toward Him while He was … Continue reading “THE REPENTANT HEART”
THE EVIL OF ENVY
JAMES 3:13–18 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere (James 3:17). The evil fire of the wicked tongue is fueled by the wickedness of the human heart, says James. By way of contrast, the one who has … Continue reading “THE EVIL OF ENVY”
DEADLY POISON
JAMES 3:1–12 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell (James 3:6). James now returns to a theme he announced in 1:19–26, the use of … Continue reading “DEADLY POISON”
FAITH AND WORKS?
JAMES 2:14–26 You foolish man, do you want evidence that faith without deeds is useless? (James 2:20). At the time of the Protestant Reformation, Roman Catholic theologians leaned heavily on the second chapter of James to maintain that justification is not by faith alone but by faith and works. The Reformers were taking every opportunity … Continue reading “FAITH AND WORKS?”
TRUE AND COUNTERFEIT GLORY
JAMES 2:1–13 My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don’t show favoritism (James 2:1). In chapter 2, James begins a discussion of the rich and the poor. He points out that we try to please those who are rich and powerful while subtly despising those who are weak and poor. He introduces … Continue reading “TRUE AND COUNTERFEIT GLORY”
LESSONS IN HUMILITY
JAMES 1:19–27 My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry (James 1:19). James has told us that we need wisdom in the midst of the trials and circumstances of life. He has promised us that God gives it freely. Now he tells … Continue reading “LESSONS IN HUMILITY”
THE GIFTS GOD GIVES
JAMES 1:12–18 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows (James 1:17). Having discussed trials and tribulations and our need for wisdom as we face them, James shifts to the subject of temptation. It is not a large shift … Continue reading “THE GIFTS GOD GIVES”
THE ACQUISITION OF WISDOM
JAMES 1:1–12 If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him (James 1:5). James has just told us to rejoice when we fall into trials, realizing that tribulation develops perseverance, which in turn produces maturity. In what seems like … Continue reading “THE ACQUISITION OF WISDOM”