|
|
The Epistle of James Introduction: There is a difference between age and maturity; not everyone who grows old, grows up. This causes many problems in our personal lives, in our homes, and in the church. Problems in these areas are often the result of immaturity. We want to use this lesson as an introduction and over view of this letter. I) Who Wrote This Epistle? A) James of course (but who was James)? 1. Possibly one of three men a. James the brother of John, Matthew 4.17-22; he was killed by Herod in Acts 12.1-2 b. James the son of Alphaeus mention in Matthew 10.3 c. James the brother of Jesus mentioned in , Galatians 1.19; and Acts 21.18-19 B) A servant 1. Paul described himself as such in Romans 1.1 and Phil. 1.1 2. The Greek term (Doulos) literally means a slave. C) Being a servant is what a disciple of Jesus is called to be 1. Jesus stressed this truth on several occasions a. When he washed Peter's feet in John13.12-17 b. He pointed out His role as a servant in Matthew 20.25-28 2. Specifically we are called to serve: God and Jesus Christ (James 1.1); Righteousness (Romans 6.17-18); and each other (Galatians 5.13). D) Being a servant is a "mark of spiritual maturity" 1. An immature person is usually very selfish (What I want and what can you do for me?) 2. A person who serves others is more concerned about others than themselves E) Being a servant has several implications 1. Implies absolute obedience a. In a slave/master relationship the slave knows no law but his master's word; he has no rights of his own; he is the absolute possession of his master; he is bound to give his master unquestioning obedience. There were no unions or courts for slaves. b. Does this describe our relationship to Christ? 2. It implies "absolute humility"; When we have a humble opinion of ourselves we are receptive to complete obedience, Phil. 2.3ff 3. It implies "absolute loyalty" a. Since we became servants FREELY it should be expected that we will be loyal to Him first, Galatians 1.10 b. Not complain about having to do the will of God, or being negligent. c. Some act as though they are being forced against their will. 4. Being a servant is a great honor; Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, Joshua, etc were all servants. II) To Whom Did James Write This Epistle? A) To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, James 1.1. 1. To Jews living outside the land of Palestine, the Jewish nation scattered since the Assyrian and Babylonian captivity, Acts 2.5-11 2. Figurative language, those in a covenant relationship with God. B) Likely these brethren were poor and being oppressed, James 2.6-7 1. They were going through difficult trials 2. They were facing temptations 3. They were hearers but not necessarily doers of the word 4. Some were catering to the rich, others were oppressed by the rich 5. Some were competing for positions in the church (much like the Jews competed for the best places in the temple) 6. Improper use the tongue was a problem as was worldliness 7. Some were straying from the faith. C) There problems are not much different from those we are facing today 1. Spiritual maturity is needed in the church today 2. God is looking for mature men and women to carry out His work. III) How Are We Going To Get The Most Out Of Our Study? A) First, we must be born again, James 1.18; 1 Peter 1.22-23 B) Second, we must honestly examine ourselves in light of God's word, James 1.22ff C) Third, we must "obey" what God teaches, no matter the cost; being doers and not merely hearers of His word D) Fourth, we must be prepared for some extra trials and testing; when we are serious about spiritual growth the enemy gets busy E) Finally, we must measure our spiritual growth by the word of God. Conclusion: Mature Christians are: a. Happy Christians, despite their trials; b. Useful Christians, overcoming the temptations that cross their path; c. Christians who help to encourage others and building up the body of Christ.
|