In a day when critics claim Christianity is not relevant and has nothing to say to our society. The wisdom found in James responds to that challenge. This book demands that we be authentic: live what we believe. Looking to the book of James should promote some questions to help us examine ourselves.
Are we living wisely?
Do we put our knowledge of God’s word to use?
Is our Christianity practical?
Friday, August 27, 2010
Series: Wisdom from James/3C. Pray
James 5: 13-16 Pray for One another
Complaining is easy but is not the appropriate response in times of difficulty. Prayer on the other hand expresses hope and trust God.
When we pray for one anther we show concern, especially when we pray for those who are sick. James provided specific instructions when we are sick. We are to call on the elders to anoint us with oil and pray for us. Oil was one of the most common used medicines used in biblical times, the oil though is not the most important part of these instructions, James’s emphasis was on the prayer. Prayer is to be done “in the name of the Lord” which implies divine commission and authority, after all He is the Great Physician.
It is not the prayer that raises the sick. Our prayer of faith shows and builds our confidence that God will heal. The seriousness of the illness should not hamper us from praying for healing.
Not all sickness is a result of sin (John 9:1-3), however James focused on healing from sickness as a result of sin. Confession of sin then becomes part of healing process. Confession must be to our pastor or trusted, mature believer who can keep confidences. Confessing does not mean we have to share all of the details. God knows the details already. The attitude of repentance is what is important.
It may be that we have sinned against another person; we must go to that person and ask forgiveness and be reconciled to him or her. Then we can pray for each other and experience the healing God intended for us to receive. Some may wonder if their prayers do any good, especially if they have prayed for something over an extended time and the answer has not come. James words are an encouragement and our prayers do make a difference.
Complaining is easy but is not the appropriate response in times of difficulty. Prayer on the other hand expresses hope and trust God.
When we pray for one anther we show concern, especially when we pray for those who are sick. James provided specific instructions when we are sick. We are to call on the elders to anoint us with oil and pray for us. Oil was one of the most common used medicines used in biblical times, the oil though is not the most important part of these instructions, James’s emphasis was on the prayer. Prayer is to be done “in the name of the Lord” which implies divine commission and authority, after all He is the Great Physician.
It is not the prayer that raises the sick. Our prayer of faith shows and builds our confidence that God will heal. The seriousness of the illness should not hamper us from praying for healing.
Not all sickness is a result of sin (John 9:1-3), however James focused on healing from sickness as a result of sin. Confession of sin then becomes part of healing process. Confession must be to our pastor or trusted, mature believer who can keep confidences. Confessing does not mean we have to share all of the details. God knows the details already. The attitude of repentance is what is important.
It may be that we have sinned against another person; we must go to that person and ask forgiveness and be reconciled to him or her. Then we can pray for each other and experience the healing God intended for us to receive. Some may wonder if their prayers do any good, especially if they have prayed for something over an extended time and the answer has not come. James words are an encouragement and our prayers do make a difference.
Series: Wisdom from James/3B. Godly Examples
James 5:10-12 Look Back to Godly Examples
Job persevered through some of the most difficult trials of life that anyone has ever faced. Toward the end even his wife told him to curse God and die, still Job could say “Though He slay me, yet I will trust Him.” Job lost everything but his faith in God, and this faith brought him through his trials.
We learn of God’s character, His compassion and mercy through the tough times.
It is easy to say things we do not mean or even make bargains with God when we are going through difficulties.
True Christian character requires few words. It may be that those who use many words to convince others have something wrong with their character and bolster weakness with words. Often, only a yes or no is necessary for people to believe them.
Job persevered through some of the most difficult trials of life that anyone has ever faced. Toward the end even his wife told him to curse God and die, still Job could say “Though He slay me, yet I will trust Him.” Job lost everything but his faith in God, and this faith brought him through his trials.
We learn of God’s character, His compassion and mercy through the tough times.
It is easy to say things we do not mean or even make bargains with God when we are going through difficulties.
True Christian character requires few words. It may be that those who use many words to convince others have something wrong with their character and bolster weakness with words. Often, only a yes or no is necessary for people to believe them.
Series: Wisdom from James/3A. Patience
James 5:7-9 Exercise Patience
It has been said that Christians are like tea. Their real strength does not come out until they are placed in hot water. Difficulties develop the godly characteristic of patience in Christians.
It is not easy being patient during difficult times. We want the difficulty to pass and life to be at ease. Sickness or strained relationships sometimes can last for a very long time.
How does a believer’s eternal hope help him face life’s difficulties?
We know there is a day coming when all difficulties will pass. That happens at Christ second coming. All pain and difficulty will cease for those who are in Him.
Waiting patiently involves practical actions.
We “stablish “our hearts, “stand firm” unmoved by the troubles of life.
Patience is needed toward those who irritate us even fellow believers. Lack of patience will likely stir up a grudging or grumbling spirit against others.
The grumbling referred to here is not just open complaining but inward bitterness, if not dealt with inward bitterness will be expressed against those close to us. We need to deal with grudges before they lead to injury.
It has been said that Christians are like tea. Their real strength does not come out until they are placed in hot water. Difficulties develop the godly characteristic of patience in Christians.
It is not easy being patient during difficult times. We want the difficulty to pass and life to be at ease. Sickness or strained relationships sometimes can last for a very long time.
How does a believer’s eternal hope help him face life’s difficulties?
We know there is a day coming when all difficulties will pass. That happens at Christ second coming. All pain and difficulty will cease for those who are in Him.
Waiting patiently involves practical actions.
We “stablish “our hearts, “stand firm” unmoved by the troubles of life.
Patience is needed toward those who irritate us even fellow believers. Lack of patience will likely stir up a grudging or grumbling spirit against others.
The grumbling referred to here is not just open complaining but inward bitterness, if not dealt with inward bitterness will be expressed against those close to us. We need to deal with grudges before they lead to injury.
Series: Wisdom from James/2C. Godly Wisdom
James 3: 17, 18 Use of Godly Wisdom
How can we tell if wisdom is from above?
1) Godly wisdom is pure. Purity is connected with holiness. The inner nature of these reflect the nature of God
2) It is peaceable; it brings peace instead of confusion and division.
3) It is gentle; the gentle person does not deliberately cause fights.
4) It is easy to be entreated, Godly wisdom makes believers agreeable and easy to work with. We are willing to listen to all sides of an issue without compromising our convictions.
5) It is full of mercy, Not harsh with others, even those with whom you might disagree
6) Produces good fruits, Good works come from those who display this wisdom
7) It is without partiality, this suggest a singleness of mind. We can be decisive because we have heard from God and know His will. Especially in knowing how to treat people fairly.
8) It is without hypocrisy, Open, honest, interested in what is best for everyone.
How can we tell if wisdom is from above?
1) Godly wisdom is pure. Purity is connected with holiness. The inner nature of these reflect the nature of God
2) It is peaceable; it brings peace instead of confusion and division.
3) It is gentle; the gentle person does not deliberately cause fights.
4) It is easy to be entreated, Godly wisdom makes believers agreeable and easy to work with. We are willing to listen to all sides of an issue without compromising our convictions.
5) It is full of mercy, Not harsh with others, even those with whom you might disagree
6) Produces good fruits, Good works come from those who display this wisdom
7) It is without partiality, this suggest a singleness of mind. We can be decisive because we have heard from God and know His will. Especially in knowing how to treat people fairly.
8) It is without hypocrisy, Open, honest, interested in what is best for everyone.
Series: Wisdom from James/2B. Worldly Wisdom
James 3;13-16 Avoid Worldly Wisdom
The word conversation describes the total lifestyle of a person, not just his words. All that this person does because he has a good way of life is to be done in meekness.
Meekness includes the idea gentleness. The term was used of a horse that submits itself to the bit. It indicates strength under control. Those who are truly wise exersise self control over their total lifestyle through the spirits power.
Worldly wisdom will bear the fruits of contention and factions. It produces boasting and division. This so-called wisdom is not from God it is “earthly” the opposite of spiritual and no from the new nature given by God. It would be devilish or demonic, either demon inspired or the way a demon would think or act. This wisdom produces disorder, confusion and ungodliness.
The word conversation describes the total lifestyle of a person, not just his words. All that this person does because he has a good way of life is to be done in meekness.
Meekness includes the idea gentleness. The term was used of a horse that submits itself to the bit. It indicates strength under control. Those who are truly wise exersise self control over their total lifestyle through the spirits power.
Worldly wisdom will bear the fruits of contention and factions. It produces boasting and division. This so-called wisdom is not from God it is “earthly” the opposite of spiritual and no from the new nature given by God. It would be devilish or demonic, either demon inspired or the way a demon would think or act. This wisdom produces disorder, confusion and ungodliness.
Series: Wisdom From James/ 2A. Power of the Tounge
James 3:2-12 Respect the tongue’s power
There are many ways that believer’s can offend, or stumble in their walk, one of those is with their speech. The believer who controls his tongue is “perfect” that is spiritually mature and has control over other areas of life. The horses bit and ships rudder are small in comparison but control something larger. In the same way a person who can control his tongue can control his whole being. The harm our speech can inflict on family, friends and the church can be widespread and lifelong in its effect. We need to understand that the source of this destruction is not God, but hell.
In verses 9, 10 James showed the inconsistency our speech can have. We worship God but express bitterness toward those He has created. Things in nature do act contrary to their nature. Believers are not to act contrary to their new nature in Christ.
There are many ways that believer’s can offend, or stumble in their walk, one of those is with their speech. The believer who controls his tongue is “perfect” that is spiritually mature and has control over other areas of life. The horses bit and ships rudder are small in comparison but control something larger. In the same way a person who can control his tongue can control his whole being. The harm our speech can inflict on family, friends and the church can be widespread and lifelong in its effect. We need to understand that the source of this destruction is not God, but hell.
In verses 9, 10 James showed the inconsistency our speech can have. We worship God but express bitterness toward those He has created. Things in nature do act contrary to their nature. Believers are not to act contrary to their new nature in Christ.
Series: Wisdom From James/ 1D. True Religion
James 1: 26, 27 Wisdom of true religion
Pure religion must influence how a person manages his speech.
One of the most difficult things to manage is our tongue (James 3:1-12)
Almost without thinking we say things that hurt others; we criticize someone to make ourselves look better. Those who claim to be religious but do not control their speech deceive themselves. (They are not deceiving anyone else) Believers have supernatural help in controlling their speech.
Pure religion also involves ministering to those who are less fortunate. If our hearts are tender toward God, we should also be tender toward others. And mentions 2 classes of people widows and orphans. These groups typically had no means to provide for themselves. God required His people to take care of them. Deuteronomy 24:17; 26:12.
Do you believe Gods concern for the less fortunate has lessened in our time?
Pure religion will also express itself in moral purity. The world is in opposition to God and his righteousness. As believers we must look for ways to serve others while remaining free of the world’s sin. We must live godly before the world so sinners may see what a Christian is truly like and want to follow Christ as well.
Pure religion must influence how a person manages his speech.
One of the most difficult things to manage is our tongue (James 3:1-12)
Almost without thinking we say things that hurt others; we criticize someone to make ourselves look better. Those who claim to be religious but do not control their speech deceive themselves. (They are not deceiving anyone else) Believers have supernatural help in controlling their speech.
Pure religion also involves ministering to those who are less fortunate. If our hearts are tender toward God, we should also be tender toward others. And mentions 2 classes of people widows and orphans. These groups typically had no means to provide for themselves. God required His people to take care of them. Deuteronomy 24:17; 26:12.
Do you believe Gods concern for the less fortunate has lessened in our time?
Pure religion will also express itself in moral purity. The world is in opposition to God and his righteousness. As believers we must look for ways to serve others while remaining free of the world’s sin. We must live godly before the world so sinners may see what a Christian is truly like and want to follow Christ as well.
Series: Wisdom From James/ 1C. Obedience
James 1: 21-25 Wisdom is Obeying God’s Word
If we are going to receive Gods word and allow it to change us, we must lay aside any impurities in our lives through the holy spirits power.
Why is it dangerous to know God’s word but not obey it?
Knowledge of the bible can cause spiritual pride and a calloused spirit. In this state we might believe we are spiritually sound, not realizing we are far from God. James says that people who obey the word learn and practice the perfect law of liberty. Knowing and obeying God’s word brings liberty.
If we are going to receive Gods word and allow it to change us, we must lay aside any impurities in our lives through the holy spirits power.
Why is it dangerous to know God’s word but not obey it?
Knowledge of the bible can cause spiritual pride and a calloused spirit. In this state we might believe we are spiritually sound, not realizing we are far from God. James says that people who obey the word learn and practice the perfect law of liberty. Knowing and obeying God’s word brings liberty.
Series: Wisdom From James/1B. Temptation
James 1: 13-15 Wisdom over temptation
The word James used for tempted is the same word translated as trials earlier. But the context indicates he is referring to temptation to sin.
Part of being wise during times of temptation is knowing its source. Sometimes temptation comes because we have made wrong choices. Other time may be the result of satanic activity. James made one thing clear. Temptation does not come from God. God cannot be tempted with evil because he is absolutely holy and cannot sin. There is no moral defect in God that would allow sin to become part of his nature.
He desires for people to be holy and act holy. He does not want people to sin. In fact he has provided everything believers need to keep from sinning.
If we are going to receive Gods word and allow it to change us, we must lay aside any impurities in our lives through the Holy Spirits power.
Why is it dangerous to know God’s word but not obey it?
Knowledge of the bible can cause spiritual pride and a calloused spirit. In this state we might believe we are spiritually sound, not realizing we are far from God. James says that people who obey the word learn and practice the perfect law of liberty. Knowing and obeying God’s word brings liberty.
The word James used for tempted is the same word translated as trials earlier. But the context indicates he is referring to temptation to sin.
Part of being wise during times of temptation is knowing its source. Sometimes temptation comes because we have made wrong choices. Other time may be the result of satanic activity. James made one thing clear. Temptation does not come from God. God cannot be tempted with evil because he is absolutely holy and cannot sin. There is no moral defect in God that would allow sin to become part of his nature.
He desires for people to be holy and act holy. He does not want people to sin. In fact he has provided everything believers need to keep from sinning.
If we are going to receive Gods word and allow it to change us, we must lay aside any impurities in our lives through the Holy Spirits power.
Why is it dangerous to know God’s word but not obey it?
Knowledge of the bible can cause spiritual pride and a calloused spirit. In this state we might believe we are spiritually sound, not realizing we are far from God. James says that people who obey the word learn and practice the perfect law of liberty. Knowing and obeying God’s word brings liberty.
Series: Wisdom From James/1A. Tough Times
James 1:1-8 Wisdom for tough times.
Believers can face difficulties when they understand the positive effect difficulties produce in them.
The word “temptations” describes the difficulties that test people, trials that come from persecution or inner struggles.
Trials can develop a spiritual stamina in us that strengthens our faith so we can stand in any circumstance.
Trials help believers recognize their dependence on God.
The wisdom that God give is more “know how” than “know why” in nature. It is much more likely that God will teach us how to handle a trial than tell us why the trial has come. God is willing to give wisdom to all who ask.
Verse 6 James described a person who doesn’t not trust God as “a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed” One moment the person expresses faith in God and the next moment he acts in unbelief.
Verse 7 He further described this man as being “unstable in all his ways” he is “double minded” this pictures a person trying to face two directions at the same time. Indecisiveness results in ineffectiveness in his life.
Believers can face difficulties when they understand the positive effect difficulties produce in them.
The word “temptations” describes the difficulties that test people, trials that come from persecution or inner struggles.
Trials can develop a spiritual stamina in us that strengthens our faith so we can stand in any circumstance.
Trials help believers recognize their dependence on God.
The wisdom that God give is more “know how” than “know why” in nature. It is much more likely that God will teach us how to handle a trial than tell us why the trial has come. God is willing to give wisdom to all who ask.
Verse 6 James described a person who doesn’t not trust God as “a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed” One moment the person expresses faith in God and the next moment he acts in unbelief.
Verse 7 He further described this man as being “unstable in all his ways” he is “double minded” this pictures a person trying to face two directions at the same time. Indecisiveness results in ineffectiveness in his life.
Series: Wisdom From James: Introduction
The story is told of an engineer who was extremely skilled (gifted) with fixing electrical equipment. After he retired, his company contacted him with what seemed to be an impossible problem with one of their multi-million dollar generators. They had tried everything they knew, but no one was able to fix the equipment.
He reluctantly accepted the challenge. He came in one day to study the problem. At the end of the day he placed a small “x” on one particular component. He told the owner “This is where your problem is” The component was replaced and the generator began working.
Later that week the firm received a bill for $10,000 from the engineer for his service. The owner of the company was incensed and demanded an itemized bill for such an outrageous charge. So the engineer sent an itemized bill that said:
One chalk mark $10.00
Knowing where to put it $9990.00
Wisdom is sometimes defined as an ability to use knowledge. The book of James is a book of wisdom concerning how to live as a Christian. It is full of practical teaching that’s helps us put what we know into use. It helps us know where to put the “x”.
He reluctantly accepted the challenge. He came in one day to study the problem. At the end of the day he placed a small “x” on one particular component. He told the owner “This is where your problem is” The component was replaced and the generator began working.
Later that week the firm received a bill for $10,000 from the engineer for his service. The owner of the company was incensed and demanded an itemized bill for such an outrageous charge. So the engineer sent an itemized bill that said:
One chalk mark $10.00
Knowing where to put it $9990.00
Wisdom is sometimes defined as an ability to use knowledge. The book of James is a book of wisdom concerning how to live as a Christian. It is full of practical teaching that’s helps us put what we know into use. It helps us know where to put the “x”.
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