Introduction to James

Take time to read through the full letter today.

About James

The book of James has been described as the Proverbs of the New Testament. Written by Jesus’ brother James--or at least compiled from a collection of things he said--it is full of practical wisdom. James himself was not one of the original twelve disciples. After his resurrection, Jesus appeared to him privately, and he became one of the church leaders in Jerusalem. We see him in Acts 15, applying his practical wisdom to the contentious problem of whether Gentile Christians should be circumcised. Paul speaks of him in Galatians as a “pillar” of the early church. He was put to death by the high priest Ananus around the year 62.

The book is a compendium of advice about Christian living. It is addressed to Jews scattered around the Mediterranean, perhaps in the aftermath of persecution in Jerusalem. Unsurprisingly, James has much to say about living in difficult circumstances. He has some sharp things to say to those of us who have money about what it means to love our neighbour, about pride and anger, about judging others, about grumbling about others and being impatient. He has a gift for striking analogies. (Count them as you read.) Who can forget his description of the person who looks at himself in the mirror and doesn't comb his hair or the “forest fire” caused by a careless word?

How we live out our faith tests its genuineness. Be prepared for a spiritual check-up!