Introduction

Many people believe this was the earliest written book of the New Testament around 50 AD. The author identifies himself as James in James 1:1 There are several men named James mentioned in the New Testament. Two were apostles: James son of Zebedee (martyred by Herod Acts 12:1-2) and James son of Alphaeus (Matthew 10:2-4). James the Lord’s brother (Matthew 13:54-55, Acts 1:14, Galatians 1:19. Written to the Christian Jews outside of Israel (James 1:1, James 2:1). The focus of James is on the practical aspects of Christianity. Many simple, direct statements on how we should live our lives. In 108 verses, there are 54 imperatives (commands).

James 1:1 a Servant

• What do we use titles for?
• What title did James choose?
• Who was James a servant to?
• Where/How did he perform his service?
• How often do we think of ourselves as servants?

James 1:2-4 Joy from Trials

• What good thing comes from trials?
• What comes from letting patience have its work?

James 1:5-8 Lacking Wisdom

• How would we know that we lack wisdom?
• What should our response be when we realize this?
• How does God respond to our request?
• How must we ask?
• What will the doubting man receive from God?
• Why will the doubting man receive nothing?
• Can we be unstable in our ways?

James 1:9-11 Glory of the Rich & Poor

• What should the lowly brother glory in?
• What should the rich glory in?

James 1:12-15 Temptations

• What blessing is for those who endure temptation?
• What does it mean to endure temptation?
• Does God tempt us?
• What causes us to face temptations and how can we minimize temptations?
• What is the progression from our desires?

James 1:16-18 Good Gifts

• Where do all good and perfect gifts come?
• How is God the Father of lights?
• Is there any variation or changing with the times?

James 1:19-21 Qualities Needed

• What does it mean to be slow to speak?
• Why is being slow to speak difficult?
• What can our wrath never produce?
• Why do you think these instructions were included right after talking about temptations and trials?
• How do we lay aside wickedness?

James 1:22-25 Doers Not Hearers Only

• Is there a temptation to deceive ourselves in this?
• What is the purpose of a mirror?
• Do we face the issue of being a forgetful hearer?
• What did Jesus call one who heard but didn’t do in Matthew 7:26?

James 1:26-27 Pure Religion

• How serious is it to not bridle our tongue?
• Why emphasize visiting orphans and widows?
• How can we become spotted from the world?

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