James: Living Out Loud

Overview of James: Considered by the early church as part of the “general epistles” along with 1 and 2 Peter, 1, 2, and 3 John, and Jude.

James is the earliest book of the New Testament canon.

The letter is addressed to “the twelve tribes who are dispersed abroad”, likely all Jewish Christians at that early date.
 
The book is concerned with the practical aspects of Christian conduct; it tells  how faith works in everyday life. James’ purpose was to provide concrete ethical instruction.
 
In the 108 verses of this epistle there are references or allusions from 22 books  of the Old Testament and at least 15 allusions to the teachings of Christ as embodied in the Sermon on the Mount.

Key Verse

For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.
James:2:26 (NASB)

Available Lessons

Content Outline

The Message of James

“James, with its devotion to direct, pungent statements on wise living is reminiscent of the book of Proverbs.

It has a practical emphasis, not emphasizing theoretical knowledge, but godly behavior.

James wrote with a passionate desire for his readers to be uncompromisingly obedient to the Word of God.

He complements Paul’s emphasis on justification by faith with his own emphasis on spiritual fruitfulness demonstrating true faith.”
Dr. John MacArthur

“As the half-brother of the Lord Jesus, James was a respected leader in the early Church; and he became the head of the church in Jerusalem.

In that role he wrote these five chapters to fellow Jewish Christians outside Jerusalem, to those scattered abroad. James spoke to them as though he were their pastor, giving commands, warnings, wisdom, and instruction.

If you need a regular dose of wisdom from a beloved pastor, read the book of James and listen to his instructions about dealing with trials, caring for widows and orphans, taming your tongue, and managing your money.”
Dr. David Jeremiah

“First-century Jewish Christians struggled with persevering through hardship, maintaining good works, promoting peace in their churches, and living patiently in anticipation of the Lord’s return.

They knew Jesus as the Way of Life but needed a travel guide for walking in that Way though life. So do we!

In the midst of the struggles of everyday life, we can all use a dose of James’ hands-on Christianity.”
Dr. Charles R. Swindoll

“It is clear that James’ theme is not works, but faith– the same as Paul’s theme, but James emphasizes what faith produces.

When Paul says that works will not save you, he is talking about the works of the Law. When James emphasizes that works are essential, he is talking about works of faith, not works of the Law.

The Epistle of James deals with the ethics of Christianity, not doctrine. He is really going to bear down on the practical, but he will not get away from the subject of faith.”
Dr. J. Vernon McGee

“James combines the wisdom of his brother Jesus with the book of Proverbs in his own challenging call to live a life wholly devoted to God.

While James doesn’t teach new theology, it does challenge believers on how they should live. Topics covered include words, favoritism, love, wealth and hardship.

When believers listen to and obey God’s word, they love Him and others. Their actions match their words, and their lives are made whole, complete and perfect”
Bible Project

Timeline of James

About the Author

References

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