To launch a study of the epistle of James it is important to answer four important questions:-

1 – Who was James?

The first verse tells us “James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ”. James was a popular name in the New Testament. There was:-

• James – the son of Zebedee and brother of John.
• James – the son of Alphaeus James – the father of Judas the disciple.
• James – the brother of the Lord. He seems to be the most likely candidate to be the author of the letter.

2 – To whom did James write?

The first verse says “… to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting”. James wrote to Jews living outside the land of Palestine, who were now Christians. James himself had been a Jew.

3 – Why did James write?

These Christians were having problems in their personal lives and in their Church fellowship. James discusses their problems, but all the time he is pointing towards the common cause for all their problems – SPIRITUAL IMMATURITY. These Christians were simply not growing up. James uses the word “perfect” several times. This is a word that means “mature”. See also James 1:4, 17 & 25; 2:22 & 3:2. Too many Churches are play-pens for babies instead of workshops for adults. James is out to correct this in his epistle.

4 – How can we get the most out of this study?

There are five things:-

• It is essential that we have been born-again. It is God’s Spirit who helps us to understand His Word.
• We must honestly examine our lives in the light of God’s Word. In James 1:23 the Bible is compared to a mirror.
• We must obey what God teaches us, no matter what the cost. We must be “doers of the Word and not hearers only”. See James 1:22. Unless we are willing to obey, the Lord is not obliged to teach us. See John 7:17.
• It is essential that we be prepared for some extra trials and testing. Whenever we are serious about spiritual growth, the enemy gets serious about opposing us. So be prepared! See Romans 5:3 – “… tribulation works patience”. While the heat is on it is important to remember that our Father in Heaven keeps His Almighty hand on the thermostat!
• We must measure our spiritual growth by the Word of God and not to measure it by other Christians. It is the standard of the Son of God. See Ephesians 4:13. Not everyone who grows old grows up. There is a difference between age and maturity. Let’s grow up today!

Categories: James