Author: James (1:1), probably a brother of Jesus (see Matthew 13:55; Mark 6:3).
Date: Approximately AD 60.
In Ten Words or Less: Real Christian faith is shown by one’s good works.
Details: Though the apostle Paul clearly taught that salvation is by faith alone and not by good works (see Romans 3:28), James clarifies that good works will follow true faith: “What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works?” (2:14). James encourages Christians, in everyday life, to view trials as opportunities for spiritual growth, to control their tongues, to make peace, to avoid favoritism, and to help the needy. The bottom line? “Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin” (4:17).
From Know Your Bible, published by Barbour Publishing, Inc. Used by permission.
The Effects Seen When a Heart Has Been Changed
James is laying out the difference between a cultural follower of Christ and an authentic follower of Christ. The difference between the two has nothing to do with where they might find themselves on a Sunday morning. James tells us that where the changed heart will first show itself, is not what a person is doing on a Sunday, but what a person is doing with his or her mouth. Join us as James clearly lays out how a spiritual person lives.
Where Evil Originates
We instinctively want to blame someone or something other than ourselves for whatever evil that is present in our lives. But the Word of God let’s us know that the true source of evil in our lives is the one looking back at us in the mirror. As we continue in our study of James, we now see that there is a process to how evil is produced. Join us as we look at how evil is both produced in our lives and is conquered in our lives.
Moving from Anxiety to Confidence
James tells us in chapter one verses two through eight, that it is possible to endure trials and that experiencing those trials can make us better followers of Christ. Join us as we find in these seven verses four simple commands to follow in order that we might live above the anxiety of the trials of life.
When Salvation Takes Possession of the Soul
What does a Christian look like? Ask that to a hundred people and you’ll probably get a hundred different answers. This is what makes the book of James so valuable, for James cuts right to the heart. As we begin our study in this wonderful book, James tells us that the first place the effects of salvation show up are in one’s attitude towards disappointment. Join us as we look at what a Biblical attitude should look like during a time of trial.