Faith Works | Week 15
Because we have been these many now 15 weeks in our verse by verse study through James, it is important for us to be reminded of a few things. First, James is writing a letter of instruction to a specific group of people. He is not writing the Bible. Although his words were divinely inspired he did not know that his letter would be a part of what we call the Bible or a part of the Holy Scriptures. It is important for us to understand this fact because this understanding effects how we read this letter. We should read it as it was intended to be read. As a letter. Often we tend to over spiritualize something and miss its meaning and depth. So we should read this book as we would read a letter.
Secondly, We have to keep in mind who James was writing this letter to. This will help us understand the instructions in the letter better. He is writing to the twelve tribes that are scattered abroad. Meaning, that these Jews were not living in the friendly confines of Jerusalem. They were living, working and worshipping in foreign lands among people who generally did not follow the teachings of Jesus. The manner of life that they lived in front of these people would either validate their faith in Jesus and cause those on the outside to desire to follow Jesus as well or it would negate their faith in Jesus and push further away these people who were already on the outside looking in.
Thirdly, James is writing to a Christian (Jesus following) group of people. The things he speaks of are things that are taking place in either their gatherings or in their daily lives. He speaks to them with deep passion. Often using the phrase, “my brethren” or “beloved brethren”. Seeing they name the name of Jesus and claim to be his followers James speaks bluntly and frankly to them. Unlike many today who say they follow Jesus and when spoken to about their manner of life are often offended and upset that someone would actually say something to them about how they are following Jesus.
In todays portion of James’ letter we will hear him speaking again of a subject that he spoke of in his opening lines. Apparently, James feels the need to address the issue again meaning that this is a serious matter to consider. It is the subject of wisdom. In week 4 we spoke of this subject. I want to call our attention back to James’ words in James 1:2-8 NKJV - (2) My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials, (3) knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. (4) But let patience have [its] perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. (5) If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. (6) But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. (7) For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; (8) [he is] a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways. James is dealing with having wisdom in our trials. Today James will speak to us regarding the source and operation of wisdom. Wisdom was important to the Jewish people. They realized that it was not enough to have knowledge; you had to have wisdom to be able to us that knowledge correctly. Proverbs 4:5-7 NKJV - (5) Get wisdom! Get understanding! Do not forget, nor turn away from the words of my mouth. (6) Do not forsake her, and she will preserve you; Love her, and she will keep you. (7) Wisdom [is] the principal thing; [Therefore] get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.