Imagine having lived your entire life around your brothers, one of Whom was the Son of God. His teaching was amazing. His followers numbered in the thousands. You too are blown away by His resurrection. Your own brother has conquered death. What a life changer. So who better than James to see the connection between what we believe (faith) and what we do (works)?
I love people who tell it like it is. Especially when it is not based upon their own thoughts, but Spirit-inspired conviction built upon truth. This is what James (the brother of Jesus) brought to the early church – and to us as well. Our faith is a gift from God. He has created our good works in advance – so that once walked in they will bring glory to God alone (Ephesians 2:10/1 Corinthians 15:24). So our faith and our deeds work in concert with the will of God.
This letter is gritty, practical, and no-nonsense when it comes to defining a genuine faith walk with Jesus. No sugar-coated words. No excessive explanations. No compromise. The wisdom of this world in no way compares with the wisdom which comes down from above. Enjoy!
Focus: My faith is an alive faith when upheld by humility!
James video link
A great faith song
James in the Story
Unpacking the letter from James.