James 1:1-12
Q.1. To whom was James addressing this letter? How could James actually suggest that trials are good for us? How important is perseverance? – (Jms.1:1-4 & 12)
Most scholars regard the Book of James to be one of the first letters to be written to the church. The church began among the Jews (Acts 1-10). James addressed the scattered Jewish believers. Not surprisingly he gave insights into how to suffer for their faith. Consistent with the other New Testament writers, James accepted the inevitability of persecution and suffering. He declared that God uses trials to achieve His purpose for believers – 2 Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, 3 knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. 4 And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing (Jms.1:2-4). We must keep our eyes on the ultimate prize and be willing to endure these trials.
Q.2. Why is faith crucial in prayer requests? Where should our faith be directed? Who is the source of our confidence? – (Jms.1:5-8)
Prayer requests are fortified by our faith in a good and gracious God. To doubt Him is an insult and makes us double-minded and unstable. We can call on God for anything that advances His kingdom, because He – … gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him (Jms.1:5). The fact that God gave His One and Only Son to rescue us from eternal damnation, proves that He is generous. He is far more willing to give than we are to receive, because we vainly imagine that we can handle all that life throws our way. Our confidence grows when we develop a strong faith in our heavenly Father.
Q.3. How should we view the poor? What attitude should the rich cultivate? Why should we keep an eternal perspective in life? – (Jms.1:9-12)
Wealthy people often have the attitude that they have earned their riches. Poorer people can easily envy the wealthy. James gave some straight talk – 9 But the brother of humble circumstances is to glory in his high position; 10 and the rich man is to glory in his humiliation, because like flowering grass he will pass away (Jms.1:9-10). However, brevity of life is the reality. Also, all our advantages can quickly evaporate. In this context, James reminded his readers – Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him (Jms.1:12). Wise are those people who use their wealth, health, and time, to build treasure in Heaven. Those who love the Lord will gain His approval and receive a Crown of Life. It will be worth it all when we see Jesus.