James

As Is Christian.

Just saying so doesn’t make you Christian. It’s not just saying you believe the Bible. Or that you believe in Jesus. Being a real Christian will make a difference in the way you live. Not that you’ll suddenly be perfect. Not at all.

James wrote this book to remind Christians to practice their faith. His letter is very practical. James talks about things like temptation, anger, showing favoritism, watching your mouth, fighting, boasting and patience. God doesn’t expect you to be perfectly good. But he doesn’t expect you to be perfectly awful either.

I’m Tempted Because . . .?

• Temptation analyzed. See James 1:13–15

King Jesus’ “Royal Law”

• Definition in James 2:1–9

Tame That Wild Tongue

• Take this to heart. See James 3:1–6

Don’t Ask for That

• Unanswered prayer explained. See James 4:1–3


Preview

• The author, James, is Jesus’ brother, the son of Mary and Joseph.

• James leads the Jerusalem church until he’s killed in 62 A.D.

• This is probably the first book of the New Testament to be written.

As James writes in the mid-40’s A.D., the city of London is founded in England. • The Arawak people settle many West Indian islands.