THEMES
Overarching Theme: Wisdom
Chapter Three Theme: Prayer whilst anticipating the Lord’s return
BACKGROUND
The last chapter in James is another challenging chapter, however it’s important to remember that James’ heart is one of love for his Jewish brothers and sisters, and he wants them to shine as the Church.
Session Resources
Download Session Notes (PDF)
Verses 1-6
James opens the final chapter with a rebuke against those living in self-indulgence and unfairness, reminding them that earthly wealth will not save them.
Questions
Do you consider yourself to be rich? How much do you need to be happy?
Do you think this rebuke is directed only towards those who are rich? Why/Why not?
Verses 7-9
James continues with a reminder to be patient, because the harvest is coming, and there is going to be a reckoning.
Questions
Often, when we think of being in the last days, it is accompanied by a sense of urgency. Why do you think James calls us to be patient?
How can we wait effectively for the Lord to return?
Verses 10-12
This call to patience is then illustrated with the prophets of the Old Testament, emphasising a call to integrity.
Questions
How good are you at keeping your word?
James names Job as an example of perseverance. What did Job’s perseverance in suffering look like?
Verses 13-16
We now reach a collection of calls to action, with a reminder that God can restore us, and so we should continue in prayer.
Questions
Think about the current challenges you are facing. Have you brought them before the Lord?
Why do you think James includes a response to happiness in the middle of these verses?
Verses 16-18
This is driven home by a reminder of how Elijah prayed. We get the impression that Elijah was some sort of super-human with all the amazing things he did. But James is clear - Elijah was a normal person.
Questions
Discuss other heroes of faith - Can you think of any from recent times who’s prayers have resulted in incredible outcomes?
What prayers have you seen answered?
Verses 19-20
James finishes on a hopeful note - If we bring people to repentance, they will be saved from death.
Questions
What holds us back from guiding those who have lost their way back on-track?
Are you able to respond in hope to every situation?
KEY TAKEAWAYS
This last chapter of James really causes us to focus our attention on looking forward - We are in the last days, and need to persevere in faith until the Lord’s return. However, after all the tough challenges James has presented through his letter, he ends the letter in an incredibly hopeful place; leaving us with reminders of the power of prayer and the hope of restoration for the lost.
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 James’ thoughts and foundations that we have considered today. At the end of the prayer is a declaration you may want to spend time on before speaking it out.
Dear Father God,
Thank you that you are returning and making all things new,
Thank you that there is hope for restoration for those who are lost,
And that anything is possible for one who believes.
Please help us to remember all the lesson in this letter,
To apply them in our lives, and grow in maturity and faith,
As we continue to walk with you.
Please help us to persevere through every trial,
Remembering to look forward in faith,
And let us have the courage to pray boldly against
Every sickness, trial and sin.
Today I choose to live in the truth and hope of this letter.
I choose to live by faith, and press on in the race that you have for me.
In Jesus name,
Amen