Theme: “Come close to God, and God will come close to you.” James 4:8 NLT
James, the Lord’s half brother and head of the church in Jerusalem, writes his letter to the “twelve tribes” of Jewish believers who are “scattered abroad”. This had to have been a great leap of faith for James. How did he expect his letter to reach all these groups of people?
James’ letter has two purposes: (1) to warn believers about wrong reactions to troubles, and (2) to give instruction about putting faith into action as Christians. In chapter 1:17-18, he tells us how good God is to us. In chapter 2:18, he explains that just talking about faith isn’t enough it has to be coupled with living it out. Chapter 3:17-18 addresses wisdom and how it is evident in a life. In chapter 4:11-12, James writes about how to get along with others. And in chapter 5:7-8, he writes about being patient in waiting for the Lord’s return.
Key verse: “Remember, it is a sin to know what you ought to do and then not do it.” James 4:17 NLT.