Three Acts of Faith (James 5:12-20)

Throughout our study of the book of James we have learned about genuine faith. For example, it produces steadfastness when tested (1:3). It does not show partiality (2:1). It reveals itself in love for God and others (2:8). It produces good works (2:26), it tames the tongue (3:8), draws you closer to Christ (4:8), andContinue reading "Three Acts of Faith (James 5:12-20)"

Praying for Patience (James 5:7-11)

When was the last time you asked God to increase your patience? The Holy Spirit gives us patience (Gal 5:22), but we usually shy away from asking God to increase it. Thomas á Kempis once said that “All men commend patience, although few are willing to practice it.” We want people to be patient withContinue reading "Praying for Patience (James 5:7-11)"

The Danger of Wealth (James 5:1-6)

Previously, James wrote about the foolishness of boasting about your future (James 4:13-17). It is foolish, James writes, because our lives are like a mist that quickly vanishes. In James 5:1-6, he writes about the danger of wealth. Being wealthy is not sinful, but wealth can be dangerous. Wealth can be dangerous because it canContinue reading "The Danger of Wealth (James 5:1-6)"

Who Are You to Judge? (James 4:11-17)

Did you know that one of the most misunderstood verses in the Bible is so misunderstood that people rarely quote the entire verse! It is Luke 6:37 and many times only the first three words are quoted: “Do not judge…” Non-Christians will use this verse as a weapon to seek to silence Christians from sharingContinue reading "Who Are You to Judge? (James 4:11-17)"

Idolatry: Diagnosed, Defined, & Defeated (James 4:1-10)

The irritation you have with those around you is usually the result of the idolatry you have within you. But, someone may object: “Wait a minute! It’s not my fault! My fights are because of other people. They mistreat me, they hurt me, and they malign me.” While it is true that other people canContinue reading "Idolatry: Diagnosed, Defined, & Defeated (James 4:1-10)"

Faith and Works (James 2:14-26)

Jesus called His followers “the salt of the earth” (Matt 5:13) and “the light of the world“ (Matt 5:14). The effectiveness of salt is demonstrated in its ability to improve the taste of food and slow the decay of food. Bad salt is worthless. The effectiveness of light is demonstrated in its ability to giveContinue reading "Faith and Works (James 2:14-26)"

The Sin of Favoritism (James 2:1-13)

You will never get a second chance to make a first impression; but don’t worry, first impressions can be deceiving. This is why you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. It is foolish to judge someone by outward appearances alone because you fail to see who they really are. Previously, James wrote that ChristiansContinue reading "The Sin of Favoritism (James 2:1-13)"

Heart, Head, Hands (James 1:19-27)

Authentic Christianity has profound implications for your heart, head, and hands. In other words, authentic Christianity is a supernatural change of heart that fuels a desire to know (head) more about Christ that in turn motivates the faithful work of your hands. James says it this way in James 1:22, “be doers of the wordContinue reading "Heart, Head, Hands (James 1:19-27)"