James Bible Study

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James Bible Study

Author: James
Date: c. A.D. 45-48

The Epistle of James was written by the half-brother of Jesus. Evidently James had been unsure about the claims of Jesus during Jesus' lifetime, but following his resurrection became one of his most ardent followers. James was elected ruler of the church in Jerusalem and was well-liked by all, even the Jews who were opponents of Christianity. According to tradition, he had the nickname "the camel-kneed," because of the calluses on his knees from time spent in prayer. This was deeply respected by the Jews of antiquity as a sign of reverence and spirituality.

James wrote in a style reminiscent of Jesus and the Sermon on the Mount. Similarities can be found in about a dozen places, as well as other hints that what Jesus said was in the back of James's mind. The book is practical, straightforward, forceful, aimed at correcting errors, and without compromise. To read it is to be stricken in conscience because many of the problems addressed by James still exist in the church today. In essence the book is in the "wisdom tradition" that goes back to the Old Testament, in particular the Book of Proverbs. Over 50 commandments are given in this short homily.

Theological Themes in the Epistle of James

James was comparing true and false spirituality, the former called by him "pure" religion (1:27). It must come from the heart, be filled with understanding, and will issue forth in positive action. True spirituality is a life of faith in action. To be a hearer of the word and not a doer is to deceive ourselves (1:22). We must couple our profession of faith with overt evidence that we are changed people. James spent a lot of time (Chapter 2) dealing with this problem. It is easy to say we have faith; the true test of faith is not our words, but our works. If someone knocks on our door and asks for help, what do we do? If we say, "I wish you well" and shut him out, that is a sure sign of unbelief. If we offer him help, that is a sign of belief. Some people find this emphasis disturbing because it seems to oppose what Paul said; it seems to imply that we are saved by our good works. We need to remember that Paul, too, stressed that faith must work (Gal. 5:6), we must bear one another's burdens (Gal. 6:2), and God has foreordained that those who are saved by faith will walk in good works (Eph. 2:10). James, on the other hand, was well aware that "every good gift and perfect gift" comes from God and is not earned (1:16-17). Their views are not contradictory.

True spirituality knows how to keep its mouth closed. Another section deals with the effects of evil speech (Chapter 3). Too many people want to be heard, even when their minds are empty or filled with jealousy and ambition. When such a person speaks, discord abounds. A storm of evil is unleashed, and the suffering that results is enormous. True wisdom is good, peaceable, and meek (3:13). Just as Jesus was wise among us, a servant of all, so must we be wise in good works, decency, and humility.

True spirituality is unselfish, generous, impartial, and patient. All of this is emphasized in 4:1-5:7. We are not to look out for ourselves alone, but must learn what it means to love in deed as well as in theory.

Finally, true spirituality looks to God in prayer in all the events of life. God is able to help, and he values prayer. Prayer is always heard, and his answer is always the right one, no matter what it is, because he knows best.

Outline for the Epistle of James

1.Nature of true spirituality JAMES 1:1-27
2.Relation of faith to works JAMES 2:1-26
3.Bridling the tongue JAMES 3:1-18
4.Practical exhortations JAMES 4:1-5:7
5.Prayer and patience extolled JAMES 5:8-20

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