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Author |
James (the son of Mary and Joseph, and the half-brother of Jesus) |
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Date |
Between A.D. 45 and 49 |
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Title |
From the book's author: James |
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Background |
James does not become a believer until after the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus. He later becomes the leader of the church in Jerusalem, participates in the Jerusalem Council, and is among those awaiting the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost. These teachings of James can be likened to the book of Proverbs and to the teachings of Jesus, especially to His Sermon on the Mount. The emphasis of James' letter is to stress the importance of good works in the life of every believer. |
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Where |
Possibly Jerusalem |
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To Whom |
To the Twelve Tribes scattered among the nations (Jewish Christians) |
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Content |
To merely say we have faith is insufficient. James stresses that we must have faith that manifests itself in the action of good works. His letter covers a wide range of sins: pride, prejudice, hypocrisy, worldliness, the unbridled tongue, and apathy. This practical treatise gives the scattered Jewish Christians a strong understanding of their union in Christ. Their trials, desires, relationships, prayers, compassion, patience, and faith are all shown to have a place in their worship of God and in their ministry to others. The letter closes with a motivating account of the faith of Elijah. |
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Themes |
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Key |
“Patience”; “Pure Religion”, “Obedience”. James emphasizes “patience” as a godly virtue each believer needs in order to become perfect and complete in Christ. “Pure religion” is living righteously before God and as an example before the world.“Obedience” is as essential to faith as the spirit is to life. |
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