James continued the theme of his epistle – “be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves” (1:22) – by bringing to the mind of his audience an attitude which was ungodly and destructive. He speaks of presumption (v. 13-15), arrogant boasting (v. 16), and the sinfulness of omission (v. 17). It is …
Continue reading James 4:13-17Evidently, among the brethren James addressed were ungodly wealthy people (cf. 1:9-11; 2:6; 4:13-17; 5:1-6). Some of the wealthy were oppressing the poor, and brethren were being tested by such wrong-doing. James explains the proper response to oppression and suffering which agrees with his previous exhortation of acceptable behavior while undergoing trials (cf. 1:2-7, 12). …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: James 5:7-11In the text given, James aptly describes the proper reaction to God’s word. It is of grave importance that we understand this reaction is the only one fit for citizens of the kingdom of God. Hear the word. It is impossible to please God without faith (cf. Hebrews 11:6). That faith can only come by …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: James 1:19-27