The “OnFire Cafe” Book Club series “The Study of Scripture”. Come Study with us as we present our new Narration Series “The Seven Letters to Christians” beginning with Part 1 – “The Book of James”. Join us here. The Video contains the narration of the Chapter with images for your entertainment. The series is being uploaded on all the “OnFire Cafe” Channels for easy access.
The Letter of James
James 1 , James 2 , James 3 , James 4 & James 5
Trials A Privilege
After his initial greeting he begins with an expression about Trials in life. He says that our failures or sin should be accepted as an opportunity to learn and better ourselves. The consequences and tribulations teach patience.
Prayer with Confidence
James suggests that if we require wisdom that we pray in faith. For prayer without faith is without direction, the indecision promotes a lack of order therefore a lack of answers. Resulting in instability within.
Temptation
Concerning temptation James indicates that those who resist the temptations of the world gain favor with God. Never say that God has tempted you because God can not look upon sin and will never tempt you with sin. Any temptation that you have perceived is of your own making. Lust brings sin. Then sin brings death. Do not make this mistake.
True Religion
James instructs us on what true religion means. He speaks of being patient and slow to anger. He speaks of being merciful and expressing love to your brothers and sisters. Ultimately he talks about what it means to have faith but with works. For faith is perceived more so out of our actions than out of our words. He spends time convincing us that faith without works is fruitless.
Respect for the Poor
An expression of the need to be aware of our perceptions about wealth and power. Warning us to be wary of extending special consideration to those with monetary influences in favor of those without such means. That God exalts the poor in faith and abases the rich in their frivolity.
Uncontrolled Language
James lectures us on controlling the tongue. Warning how the power of the spoken words can condemn us. From the same mouth comes blessings and curses. He gives examples of small things that control the larger. The blessing comes from God but the spoken evil comes from men.
Real Wisdom and it’s Opposite
Real Wisdom is that which has come from above. All that is peaceful, gentle and pure. Full of mercy and compassion without hypocrisy. But the opposite exists in envy and strife. This will be our undoing for it is of the evil one.
Disunity Among Christians
James talk about conflict among ourselves. Suggesting we take a look at the sin that creates the disagreement. He speaks of sins like lust, judgment and adultery. He urges us to submit ourselves before God and to resist the devil and he will flee from us. Cleanse ourselves and purify our hearts. Humble ourselves in the sight of the Lord and he will lift us up.
A Warning for the Rich and Self-Confident
Speaking about the pursuit of wealth above concern for ones fellow man. Warning that life is like a vapor appearing for a short time and then gone. That the rich who take advantage of the people who are working hard for them are out of favor. He speaks to the riches being corrupted and the fine linens moth eaten. That putting up stores on earth is a fruitless endeavor for our time on earth is short. For those who know the difference that know to do good and chose not to do so, to them it is sin.
The Coming of the Lord
James tells us to be patient for the coming of the Lord. He tells us to prepare our hearts for the arrival. Not to hold grudges with on another lest we be condemned because the true judge will come to the door. Those who endure will be happy and will experience the Lord’s tender mercy.
We are warned not to swear under any circumstances. If afflicted we should pray. If we are happy sing songs. If we are sick petition the church to anoint our heads with oil and pray with us. Prayers of faith will save the sick and the Lord will rise them up. Confess sins to one another, help one another, pray with one another. The fervent prayer of the righteous will avail much.
Well James has a lot of guidance condensed into his letter to the Christians. Be sure and listen to the presentation embedded above for the scriptural narration which contains a lot of information to be considered. I have really enjoyed the study as I prepare this for you, I hope that you will also.
For the Love of God,
Sparks
