Book of James
James is the first in the group of general epistles. It contains practical advice. The book is to the New Testament as Proverbs is to the Old Testament.
Author
The author is identified in James 1:1
"James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ."
The epistle is traditionally attributed to James the brother of Jesus.
James the brother of Jesus has the most prominent role in the early church and is often understood as either the author of the epistle or the implied author.
James uses many of the sayings of Jesus that are found in the gospels of Luke and Matthew.
James knew Jesus was his brother, but he did not understand that he was the Messiah until after Jesus' death. All of Jesus' brothers are named in the New Testament as James, Joses, Simon, and Jude (Mark 6:3 and Matthew 13:55). James is thought to be the oldest because his name is listed first in both scriptures. Jesus had two sisters, according to Mark and Matthew. However, the sisters are not unnamed, but they are shown on the family chart as being older than Jude. Jude is the younger of Mary's seven children.
Recipients
The recipients of the general epistle are also identified in James 1:1
James is writing to "the twelve tribes scattered abroad."
The audience is generally considered to be Jewish Christians, who were dispersed outside Israel. The epistle aims to reach a wide Jewish audience.
Themes of Book
Patient and perseverance during trials and temptations
Purpose of Book
James writes in order to encourage his readers to live consistently with what they have learned in Christ. He condemns various sins, including pride, hypocrisy, favoritism, and slander. He encourages and implores believers to humbly live by godly, rather than worldly wisdom, and to pray in all situations.
Lessons in the Book of James
Chapter 1
James teaches about counting trials as all joy, Christian wisdom, enduring temptations, and being doers and not hearers only as well as caring for widows and orphans.
Chapter 2
James contrasts the rich and the poor. James designated God’s commandment to “love thy neighbor as thyself” as “the royal law.” Those who profess faith should demonstrate it through their actions, for “faith without works is dead.” Abraham is an example of how faith is manifested through good works.
Chapter 3
James warned about the damage that can be done by the words we speak. He compared the tongue to three small things that do great damage when used the wrong way. He taught that our words and conduct should reflect peace and devotion to God. James cautioned against envying and seeking superiority over others. He contrasted earthly and heavenly wisdom.
Chapter 4
James discussed problems of lust and warned the saints that friendship with the world is enmity with God. James counseled them to resist the devil and to draw close to God. When we know what is right and choose not to do it, we commit sin.
Chapter 5
James taught that the misuse of riches will lead to misery. He counseled the saints to wait patiently for the coming of the Lord. He instructed the sick to call for the elders of the church to anoint them with oil. He taught about the effectual prayer of a righteous person.
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