The Epistle of James: An Introduction
The Epistle of James—An Introduction
- Despite the objection of some (such as Martin Luther), James is one of the most practical and needed letters for Christians.
- He rebukes worldliness and pretense in religion.
- He denounces social injustices.
- He challenges Christians to make their lives consistent with their profession of Christianity.
- One of the most challenged books in the New Testament.
- However, it passes every test of authenticity.
- It is in complete harmony with the teaching of Jesus and the apostles.
- It is pretty much universally agreed that the writer is James, the half-brother of Jesus.
- He identifies himself as, “a servant (doulos –slave) of God and the Lord Jesus Christ” (1:1)
- Of course, the Holy Spirit is the true author of the book.
- Written, “to the twelve tribes of the Dispersion” (1:1)
- Those Jews scattered through the Roman Empire due to persecution (Acts 8:1f; 12:1f).
- “diaspora” – scattered seed.
- Date: One of the earliest books of the New Testament.
- Around 45-48 AD.
- Written to Jewish Christians, at about the time the gospel first went to the Gentiles.
- Purpose:
- Understand the purpose of trials in the Christian’s life.
- To become “perfect” men—mature Christians
- Theme: The Practice of True Religion.
