Putting Faith Into Practice

An Overview of the Book of James

Faith is Demonstrated by:

Our Words and Deeds

  • Our works demonstrate our faith (2:16-17,24)
  • It is manifest in our speech (1:26; 3:,9-10)
  • This is a reflection of our heart (3:11-12)

Our Approach to God’s Word

  • God uses His word to call us and to save us (1:18)
  • Receive it eagerly and humbly (1:19-21)
  • Be more than hearers, put it into practice (1:22,25)
  • Seek after the wisdom from above (3:17)

Our Handling of Temptation

  • Trials from without — rejoice (1:2-4)
  • Desires from within — overcome (1:13-15; 4:7-8)

The Use of Our Blessings

  • God gives us all good things (1:17) — We must be good stewards
  • Help those in need (1:27; 2:15-16)
  • Planning for the future (4:13-15)
  • Not to trust in riches (1:9-11; 5:1-3)

Our Trust in God

  • Don’t be a friend of the world (4:4)
  • Humble yourselves (4:6-10)
  • Endure sufferings (1:12; 5:7-8,10-11)
  • Singing/prayer (5:13-16) — in good & bad times, we direct our attention to God

Our Dealings with Brethren

  • Not to judge unrighteously (2:1-5; 4:11-12; 5:9)
  • Strive for peace (3:17)
  • Not to seek after our own selfish desires (4:1-3)
  • Turn others from sin (5:19-20)