James 1:1: Introduction to James

Sermon Overview:

• Three things you need to know about the book of James:

  • James is a letter.

  • James is very practical— he wants us to know how to live out our faith and be consistent Christians.

  • James has a main idea: Christians are hearers and doers.

• Author: James, brother of Jesus, leader of the Jerusalem church.

• Audience: the people of God scattered throughout.

• Application: reasons to study James: James teaches us…

  • About God’s purposes in trials, and how to endure them.

  • How to fight sin and resist temptation.

  • How to seek and walk in wisdom.

  • How the law is fulfilled in the Christian life.

  • That our speech matters greatly.

  • That God cares for the poor, and we should too.

  • That faith without works is dead.

Reflection:

• Read the book of James in a single sitting (it should take about 10-15 minutes).

• What main themes do you notice, and how do they relate to James’ main idea (that Christians are to be hearers and doers)?

• What encourages and/or challenges you the most from the book as a whole?

• Pray through part of James.