THEMES
Overarching Theme: Wisdom
Chapter One Theme: Perseverance through Trials & Temptations
HISTORY
‘James the Just’ as he was later called, was the brother of Jesus, the son of Joseph. Initially a sceptic of the ministry of Jesus, he later became a believer when Jesus appeared to him after the resurrection. Later still, he became the leader of the church in Jerusalem.
The letter is addressed to the Jews scattered across the diaspora, and covers the importance in being a testimony to your own people group.
Verses 1-8
After opening with his initial greetings, James jumps straight into a very challenging passage on facing trials with perseverance, along with teaching us how to respond correctly in wisdom and faith.
Questions
James’ first instruction of considering trials as ‘pure joy’, is a very challenging scripture! How can we practically respond in joy, faith and wisdom when faced with trials & pressures in our daily life?
What does the ‘maturity’ described in this passage look like in the world today?
Verses 9-12
James then continues by talking about poverty and riches, and how the riches of this world will not last. This draws us back to the challenge of persevering for the richness of life in the Kingdom of God.
Questions
James challenges us not to put our hope in riches. Why do some find it so easy to misplace their hope?
Why are the rich challenged to take pride in their humility?
Verses 13-15
James then shifts from looking at external pressures, to internal temptations, reminding us that they can very easily lead to spiritual deadness if we aren’t careful.
Questions
James makes it quite clear here that temptation isn’t from God. What are the sources of temptation in your life?
Discuss how you can build up defences against temptation to keep yourself safe from the enemy’s tricks.
Verses 16-21
Next comes a reminder of who we are as born again believers, and what that means.
Questions
Every good and perfect gift is from above - What good gifts have you received?
What is the word of truth that you have been born into?
Verses 22-27
James continues with another call to action, challenging us to put our Faith into practice and make the necessary changes.
Questions
Which biblical commands do you find the most challenging to recognise and put into practice in your life?
Think of examples of fellow Christians who have stood out for their faith. What was it that gave them that distinctiveness?
KEY TAKEAWAYS
James’ letter is an incredibly practical one, and really illustrates how scripture can act as a mirror for our lives. While it can be quite challenging and convicting, James qualifies the difficulty, by giving clear instruction on how we can face trials and temptations.
We are consistently reminded that victory is in remembering who we are in Christ, and the promises that God has for us.
PRAYER & REFLECTION
End your time as a group, or individually, in a time of prayer. If it is helpful, below is a written prayer you can use as a reflection on thoughts and reflections that James has presented us with today.
Dear Lord,
Thank you so much for making us new.
Thank you that you are not finished with us yet.
Thank you for the practical guidance that you have given us
in your Word through the book of James.
We ask that you would help us to be open to correction,
That as we journey through scripture,
We will be guided by the Holy Spirit in growing and maturing in Christ.
Please give us wisdom in every area of our lives where we need clarity,
And help us to overcome every doubt in our hearts,
That we may be fully ready to walk by faith
Wherever you call us.
And lead us not into temptation
But deliver us from evil.
In Jesus name,
Amen.
