The Book Of James
Who wrote the book of James: James, the brother of Jesus When was it written: 48 to 50 A.D.
The book of James is one of the New Testament books referred to as a ‘general letter’. The general letters are written to Christians in general, rather than to a specific church (like Ephesians, for example).
This does not mean that the letters written to the specific churches are any less important and relevant to Christians then, now, and in the future. It simply means they speak in general terms of Christian conduct rather than addressing specific problems the churches were facing (and still face).
Overview Of The Book Of James In The Bible
We know from reading the four books of the gospel writers that Jesus’ siblings were not strong supporters of his ministry in the beginning. In fact, in Mark 3:20-33, we read that they were embarrassed by their brother’s ministry…..that they did not believe their oldest brother was the Son of the one true God.
Jesus’ appearance to James wasn’t a coincidence. Neither was it because he and James shared an extra-special brotherly bond. It was undoubtedly because he (Jesus) saw in James the great teacher and Church leader he turned out to be.
Yes, that’s right. James because a prominent leader in the early church in Jerusalem. James pastored, taught, and encouraged the early Christians as they went through the growing pains of going from Judaism to Christianity.
He shepherded them through the persecution and ridicule they faced; focusing on everyday living and Christian character rather than doctrinal issues. James tells us what it is and means to be truly faithful, truly wise, and truly religious.
As you read through the list of things we learn from the book of James, I ask that you do so with the mindset of measuring your own life against James words of wise instruction because when you look in the mirror or when others look at you, the person
James describes it as the person you need to see staring back and you and the person others need to see.
What We Learn From The Book Of James
We are to view the trials we face with joy and with the attitude that we will learn from them and allow them to grow and mature our faith in God. (1:2)
When our faith grows because of the difficult situations and difficult times we face, we also develop perseverance. (1:4)
Key Themes In The Book Of James Explained
All we have to do in order to gain wisdom is ask God for it. (1:5)
We MUST believe and not doubt. Otherwise, we will receive nothing from God. (1:6-7)
Rich or poor—it doesn’t matter. What matters is that we have a heart of humility toward God. (1:9-11)
We will be blessed when we persevere through hardships without losing faith. (1:12)
God does not tempt us. Temptations come from the evil desires Satan places in our hearts and minds. (1:14)
Living a lifestyle that gives in to temptations results in spiritual death. (1:15)
EVERY good thing comes from God and only God. (1:17)
We are to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. (1:19)
We are to get rid of all anger, moral filth, and evil thoughts we have. (1:21)
Book Of James Commentary
It’s not enough to know what God’s Word says. We have to live it 24/7 in order for it to be real and relevant…for our faith to be real and relevant. (1:22)
We are to keep a tight rein on our tongue (what we say). Otherwise, our religion is worthless. (1:26)
God’s definition of religion: To look after orphans and widows and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. (1:27)
We aren’t to show favoritism toward people based on their looks, their social status, their heritage (race, etc.), or their popularity. We are to love everyone and treat everyone the way we want them to treat us. (2:8-9)
Sin is sin—none is greater or lesser than another in God’s eyes. (2:10-12
We are to extend mercy to others rather than pass judgment on them. (2:13)
NOTE: Judgement is not the same as holding someone accountable for falling away from God’s direct commands.
We are saved by faith—a faith that is demonstrated by its deeds. Faith and deeds go hand in hand. Without deeds faith isn’t faith…it is lip service. (2:14-26)
Teachers of the Word will be judged with more scrutiny than those who are not teachers of the Word. (3:1)
Not everyone is called to teach the Word of God on a broad scale, but we are all called to share the Word of God with those around us. (3:1)
We are not perfect, as in sinless, but we should strive to be perfect as in striving to be like God in all ways. (3:2)
An excellent message containing analogies on keeping ourselves in check. (3:3-12)
What is wisdom? It is living a good life of deeds done in humility out of a love for God and a desire to love as he loves. Godly wisdom is pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, merciful, impartial, and sincere, and includes acts of service and ministering to the needs of others. (3:13 and 17)
We are to get rid of any bitterness, envy, and selfish ambition we are harboring in our hearts. (3:14)
Having a worldview of wisdom leads to earthly, unspiritual ways of thinking and acting. These things are from the devil and should be avoided at all costs. (3:15-16)
Conflict is nearly always the result of fighting to get our own way. (4:1-2)
We are to ask God for what we want. But when we ask with wrong or impure motives, or when we ask for things that go against God’s expectations and desires for our life, we should not expect to grant our requests. Why? Because God will never give us anything contrary to his perfect will for our lives. (4:2-3)
When we submit to God, the devil doesn’t stand a chance with us. (4:7)
God will never push himself on us or force his will on us. But when we come near to him, he welcomes us with loving and open arms; drawing us close to his side. (4:8)
When we humble ourselves before God he blesses us. (4:10)
Biblical Perspective On The Book Of James
God is the judge of man. (4:12)
We should seek God’s will for our lives in all things and make our plans accordingly. (4:13-16)
Anyone who knows the right and Godly thing to do, but doesn’t do it, is guilty of sin. (4:17)
Warnings for making money and wealth a priority and the basis of your identity. (5:1-6)
We are to be patient and kind to one another. (5:7-8)
We are to be people of integrity—men/women of our word. (5:12)
James Bible Study Guide For Personal Growth
We are to be people of prayer and people who willingly and joyfully offer up praises to God. (5:13)
God is a healer. (5:14-15)
We are to confess our sins to God and to each other. (5:16)
There is tremendous power in prayer. (5:16-17)
We are to hold our brothers and sisters in Christ accountable for their actions, and they are to do the same for us. Additionally, when we see a fellow Christian falling away from God and choosing a lifestyle of sin, we should try to win that person back to Christ. (5:19-20)