Who Wrote This Book?  No one knows for sure which James wrote this letter, but it was believed to be Jesus’ brother. (Gal 1:19)

Date of Writing:  This was written between A.D. 40 and 50.

Written To:  The twelve tribes (1:1) meaning either (1) the people of Israel who had become believers in Christ or (2) the church in a symbolic sense – both Jewish and Gentile believers. (Gal 6:16)

Why It Was Written.  To warn believers of some habits they had developed that undermined the essence of what they believed:  these things such as favoritism, slander, pride, the misuse of wealth and lack of patience.  Obedient living would increase their witness as those scattered among the nations. (1:1)

James shows that it’s possible to believe the right things, yet live the wrong way.  This book will also show you how to turn the right doctrine into right living.

The letter takes a no-nonsense approach to hypocrisy.  James describes the evil of a tongue out of control, showing favoritism toward the rich and boasting about plans for tomorrow.  Don’t look for pious platitudes here, but expect a string of hard hitting, specific practical instructions to help you live an authentic Christian life.

Key Verses:

James 1:12     Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.(NIV)

James 1:19-21   ¹⁹ Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. ²⁰ Human anger^[a] does not produce the righteousness^[b] God desires. ²¹ So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls.