James- Active Faith (Bible Study Series)

MIDWEEK BIBLE STUDY Pastor Alex M Perednia09/08/10 #1 JAMES: ACTIVE FAITH

James: The Man and His Message (Overview of James)______________________________________________________________________________

WARMING UPTaking a look at the sermon topics below, which topic do you think you(and/or our church) need to hear most? Why? (What are the top three votes& I will be sure to invite everyone out to Bible Study especially on those nights.) How do I face trials and temptations without being crushed? (James 1:3-5,

12-18; 5:7-12)

When is studying the Bible dangerous to your spiritual life? (James 1:16-27; 3:1)

Do I need a special theology degree to know God's will? (James 1:5-8;3:13-18; 4:13-17)

In God's eyes, is it better for me to be rich or poor? (James 1:9-11; 1:27-2:13; 5:1-6)

How can I know if my faith is real? Or, Does my faith need my works togo to heaven? (James 1:26-27; 2:14-26)

Since my sins are forgiven in Christ, will I still be "judged" by God?(James 1:12; 2:12-13; 3:1; 4:11-12)

How do I start a fire with my tongue? (James 1:26, 3:1-12; 4:11-12; 5:12)

Why do relationships among church folk sometimes break apart into pettysquabbling? (James 1:19-21; 3:13-18; 4:1-2, 7-12)

Can I be friends with the world and with God? (James 1:27, 4:4-10)

Should I expect God to answer my prayers? (James 1:5-7; 4:2b-3; 5:16b-20)

Is confession only good for the soul? (James 5:13-20)

All of these topics--- and more-- are addressed in the Letter of James. That ishow diverse and practical these five chapters are!

DIGGING DEEPERLet's acquaint ourselves with some background info on this letter with alittle quiz. Are you ready? True or False?

1. T or F: James was written by one of the Twelve Apostles.2. T or F: This is likely one of the earliest letters of the NT writtenand was addressed to Jewish followers of Jesus.3. T or F: James was probably strongly influenced by the OT book ofProverbs and Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5-7) in writing his letter.4. T or F: In contrast with Paul’s letters, James doesn’t emphasizetheological formulation, but stresses practical Christianity.5. T or F: In over 2,000 years of church history, James has beenrevered by everyone as one of the finest books in the NT

Answer Key1. FALSE James (Hebrew- Jacob) was a common name. Although two of thetwelve were named James (Mark 10:2-3), the James who wrote this letter was thehalf-brother of Jesus (Matt. 13:55), who did not follow Jesus until after Hisresurrection (John 7:5, 1 Corinthians 15:7, Acts 1:14). After James' conversion, hebecame a key leader in the Jerusalem church (Acts 12:17, Acts 15:13ff.) He wasknown as James the Just and was known for his personal piety.2. TRUE The Jewish converts were probably scattered because ofpersecution and many of them were very poor.3. TRUE The themes of wisdom and proper uses of the tongue are majorthemes of Proverbs. As we study this letter, we will note any direct connectionsbetween the Sermon on the Mount and James.4. TRUE A tricky question, because the question assumes Paul is alltheology and no application. In that sense, it is false. Although Paul stressestheological formulation in his letters, he always stresses practical application too.For example, Romans 1-11 and Ephesians 1-3 are deep theological statements buteach of these letters ends with great practical helps (Romans 12-16 and Ephesians 4-6). Good theology is always practical!5. FALSE One well-known person who had seriously reservations aboutJames was the Protestant Reformer Martin Luther who called this “an epistle ofstraw” because he (mistakenly) thought that James contradicts Paul’s teachings onsalvation by grace through faith without works.

APPLYING THE WORD:Imagine an un-churched friend asks you, "What is a good religion?” Or“Which religion does God want me to join?" How would you respond?

Read James 1:26-27. These verses are the "center" of what James istrying to convey and ties together many of the sub-themes of the letter.a. How does James define "true religion"? Is this what you would havesaid to your unchurched friend? Does this contradict the classicevangelical position that "asking Jesus into your heart" is the way to besaved?b. In v. 26, what is an example of "worthless religion"? In v. 27, what arethe two components of true religion? How does this view of "truereligion" challenge you?e. According to James, is it possible to be self-deceived about yourreligion? (see also Matthew 7:21-23). How do we avoid being self-deceived?f. John Mcarthur wrote that, “James wrote… to challenge his readers toexamine their faith to see if it was genuine saving faith. Will youhonestly use the book of James to help to do some important self-examination?”


How Do I Face Trials Without Being CrushedJames 1:3-5, 12-18; 5:7-12

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WARMING UPWhen you hear the word TEST, what comes to mind? Does that wordcreate a positive or negative image in your mind? In what ways can

testing be a negative/positive experience? Why does God test our faith?

DIGGING DEEPER Before we consider how to face trials without being crushed, we need

to be clear about the “many kinds” of trials (1:2) we will face asChristians. What are the “trials of many kinds” that James is referringto? Here is the definition of a trial by James: …Something that leadsto “the T_____________ of your faith…” (1:2)

An examination of the context will show us that the kinds of trials thatJames has in mind come from two main sources. Trials that come from circumstances W_________ (James 1:2-4).

What was the real life test that Christians were facing in 5:1-8? Trials (or temptations) that come from desires W________ (James

1:13-15). This is clearly a different kind of “test” from the firstbecause the source of the testing comes from within. This kind oftest is more properly called a “temptation” (inducement to evil).

With the help of James 1:12-15, how would you respond to some ofthese myths of temptation: “God is tempting me.” Or, “The Devilmade me do it.” Or, “When I am a strong Christian, temptation won’tbe a problem anymore.”

What is the “cycle of temptation” according to 1:14-15? What are theoutcomes if the cycle of temptation continues?

Consider the following kinds of trials. What kind of test are these…from within… from without… or a combination? How would/do eachof these test our faith? How have you responded to them? …a diagnosis of a serious illness …whether to tell a life to protect yourself …a financial hardship, like a job loss …whether to watch a racy video online … losing a promotion because of your out-spoken faith …whether to fight back when slandered by a friend …whether to break that diet and eat an extra helping of pie …extreme disappointment about circumstances in our life

Let’s come back to the question, “Why does God test our faith?” What are the reasons given in James 1:2-4? What does God want

to produce or accomplish in us as a result of our testing? Let’stake a moment to reflect upon some key phrases to understand thekeys to facing trials without being crushed “Consider it pure joy…” (a joyful A_____________) “…Whenever you face trials…” “…knowing that…” (an understanding M_________) “…The testing of your faith develops perseverance…” “…Perseverance must finish its work…” (a S______ will) “…so that you may be mature and complete…” “…so that you (are)… not lacking anything…”

According to James 5:7-11, what are we commanded to do in theface of trials involving unfair (and even unjust) circumstances? Who is the great Biblical example that James cites for

enduring suffering patiently? What is the “eschatological” reason (a reason pertaining to

“last things”) that we can endure under unjust suffering?

According to James 1:12, what is God’s promise to those who enduretrials faithfully? How can knowing this help us when facing trials?

APPLYING THE WORDIn his commentary on James (1998 Moody Press), Bible teacher JohnMcArthur helps further answer the question, “Why does God test ourfaith?”He writes: “To test the genuineness of a diamond, jewelers oftenplace it in clear water, which causes a real diamond to sparkle withspecial brilliance. An imitation stone, on the other hand, will have almostno sparkle at all. When the two are placed side by side, even an untrainedeye can easily tell the difference.” He explains that it is important thatGod test us to reveal the real quality of our faith: “Many people havegreat confidence in their faith until it is severely tested by hardships ordisappointments. How a person handles trouble will reveal whether hisfaith is living or dead, genuine or imitation, saving or non-saving.”

How are you doing in the trials you are facing? Is the trial crushing yourfaith… revealing it wasn’t strong or genuine in the first place? Or, is thetrial developing a perseverance and maturity that you did not know youhad? Will you ask God to help “the testing of your faith to produceperseverance…(and the) maturity” of your faith?


When is Studying the Bible Dangerous to Your Spiritual Life?James 1:19-27

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WARMING UP

It is not uncommon to see a road sign: “CAUTION: Road Construction

in Progress”. Perhaps you noticed the sign coming into Bible Studytonight, “CAUTION: Bible Instruction in Progress.” According to

James 1:22-25 why should there be a “caution sign” posted wheneveranyone studies the Bible? According to James 3:1, what people should be

particularly careful to avoid the dangers of Bible study and why?

DIGGING DEEPERThe central question of the book of James is “How do I know if my faithis a real saving belief?” If a friend asked you, “How do I know if myfaith is real?” how would you answer them?

James 1:22-25 clearly shows us that -- because God desires that wehave a faith that is “real” and “active”-- God expects that our Bible

Study be not just limited to acquiring I______________ but focus

on experiencing T_________________ – a changed life as a resultof what we have learned! If we seek to study the Bible just for theinformation we can get out of it -- but fail to experiencetransformation -- then we are in a dangerous place!

According to James 1:22-25, what are the two essential ingredients of“experiencing transformation” when we study the Bible?

I_________________: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves.” (1:22a) “…the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom,

and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard…” (1:25a)

O________________: “…Do what it says.” (1:22b) “…but doing it…” (1:25b)

Let’s try to be “doers of the word” tonight. Looking at 1:19-21, inwhich of these two areas of personal application (the control ofA______________ or the good use of your T________________) doyou think you can use some transformation of character?

As we continue this study of James, we’ll be addressing both of thesetopics in detail. According to 1:21, what is the only way we can besaved from these terrible sins? Will you ask God to save you andtransform you by “the word planted in you…”?

Did you notice the two kinds of people described in James 1:22-25?

A D_______________ person is one who “merely listen(s) to

the word (but) does [not] what it says.” (James 1:22)? What isGod’s warning to a person who practices input without outputof God’s Word?

A B_______________ person is one who “looks intently into

the perfect law that gives freedom…doing it.” What is God’spromise to a person who practices both input and output ofGod’s Word? What is the personal benefit to such a person?

Right after warning people about avoiding the dangers of acquiringBible information without Bible transformation, James addresses acentral theme of the book: the necessity of an active faith.

How does James 1:26-27 answer the question: “How do Iknow if my faith is real?”

Are you at all surprised by this answer? How does this answersquare with your answer?

Does this mean if someone starts an adoption agency or helpsout widows then they are guaranteed to please God and goheaven?

Another verse that talks about what “pleases God” is Hebrews11:1, 6. Does it contradict or complement James 1:27?

APPLYING THE WORD

Will you ask God to transform you by becoming a more effective doer ofthe Word?

An active faith that pleases God is one that “not merely listen(s) to theword (but) does what it says.” (James 1:22). An active faith is thecentral theme of the book of James: It will be the issue we will beaddressing next week as we look very carefully at James 2:14-26 tounderstand the relationship between faith and works.


How Do I Know If My Faith is Real?James 2:14-26

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WARMING UP

Ralph has been talking about faith to Jeff, his co-worker. Both grew up inthe same Baptist Church as youngsters and were baptized together. Ralphis still a committed Christian; Jeff has wandered from the church and isliving in unrepentant immorality, in these conversations, Jeff always says,“Don’t worry, Ralph, I’m saved.” One day, Ralph got rather direct andsaid, “Jeff, I’m care about you and am worried about you; I know youprofessed faith and was baptized as a youngster, but you’re not living agodly life. I am afraid you’re faith is dead.” Jeff said: “Ralph, that’s theproblem with the church, everyone is so judgmental. But, I won’t hold itagainst my childhood buddy, don’t worry, I’ve already asked Jesus intomy heart and I know all my sins will be forgiven.”Who do you think is correct in their understanding of the nature of faithand lifestyle? Is Ralph is to be concerned about his co-worker, Jeff?Isn’t Jeff right to think that since he put his faith in Jesus and wasbaptized, he’s saved and will go to heaven no matter what? Is Ralphbeing judgmental?

DIGGING DEEPER

THE KEY QUESTIONS What is the relationship between faith andworks according to (James 2:14-20? The Key Question …Stated… "If a man claims to have a faith,

but has no deeds... Can such faith save him?" (James 2:14) The Key Question …Illustrated: "Suppose a brother or sister is

without clothes and daily food..." (James 2:15) A Common Misunderstanding Refuted: ““You have faith; I have

deeds.” (James 2:18) According to James 2:19, does the Devil have faith? Is it saving

faith? What is the difference between this kind of faith and the faithof someone who is saved?

What examples does James offer to illustrate his points from the OldTestament?

CONSIDER ABRAHAM! What does the life of Abraham reveal about

the relationship between faith and works? Was Abraham “consideredrighteous” ("justified"-ESV ~ "declared right by God" ~ NLT) by what hedid... when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? (James 2:21-24)

Abraham's faith was R______________ by his actions …and so

will our actions reveal our faith! (James 2:21) "Then (God) said, "Do not lay a hand on the boy or do

anything to him. For now I know that you fear God, since youhave not withheld your only son from Me." (Gen 22:12)

"It was by faith that Abraham offered Isaac as a sacrificewhen God was testing him. …Abraham assumed that if Isaacdied, God was able to bring him back to life again." (Hebrews11:17-19 ~ NLT)

Abraham's faith was M___________________ by his actions

…and so will our faith be matured by our actions! (James 2:22) THE LIFE OF ABRAHAM SHOWS… “And the scripture was

fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited tohim as righteousness,” and he was called God's friend. You see thata person is justified by what he does and not by faith alone.” (James2:23-24) because like Abraham, our faith will be revealed as

G___________________ by our actions!

THEOLOGY extra credit: Does James’ conclusion: ‘You see that a person

is justified by what he does and not by faith alone.” (James

2:24) contradict Paul’s conclusion: “If, in fact, Abraham was

justified by works, he had something to boast about—but not

before God.” (Romans 4:2)?

“Paul is dealing with obstetrics, with how life begins; James is dealing withpediatrics and geriatrics, with how life grows, matures and ages.” (Frances Gench)

Both James and Paul agree: We are not saved BY___ good works, but saved

FOR_ good works!

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith —and this not fromyourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. Forwe are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do [“for” – ESV] goodworks, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Eph. 2:8-10)

APPLYING THE WORDSome Conclusion about the relationship between faith and works A faith that just T_____________ but does not walk is no good!

(2:17). A creed without D_____________ is useless! (2:18-20).


How Do I Know If My Faith is Real? – Pt. 2James 2:14-26

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WARMING UP: A person is stricken ill in front of you and asks you to callan ambulance. You compassionately say, “Well, I don’t want to use up my cellphone minutes right now, but I hope you feel better.” Do you really care? Thisabsurd question is an adaption of James 2:15-16 to show, “In the same way, faithby itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” (2:17)

DIGGING DEEPER

THE KEY QUESTION: What is the relationship between faith and worksaccording to James 2:14-20? The Key Question …Stated… "If a man claims to have a faith, but has

no deeds... Can such faith save him?" (James 2:14). Notice that James isnot questioning whether faith actually saves, but probing the

Q_______________ of a faith that saves and is genuine.

The Key Question …Illustrated: "Suppose a brother or sister is withoutclothes and daily food..." (James 2:15) He then asks, “What good isthat?” is a person says good things but refuses to help a person in need.

James is helping us see how we can D_______________ false fromgenuine faith by drawing a parallel: “In the same way, faith by itself, if itis not accompanied by action, is dead.” (2:17) According to thisillustration, what is the criterion which separates those with dead faithwith those with living faith?

A Common Misunderstanding Refuted: ““You have faith; I havedeeds.” (James 2:18) If we think that faith and works can be

S__________________, then we have misunderstood faith itself. According to James 2:19, does the Devil have faith? Is it saving faith?

What is the difference between this kind of faith and the faith of someonewho is saved? Does this imply that there are different levels of beliefs?What are these levels and what kind of belief constitutes “saving” or “living”faith according to James?

We can believe with our H__________... an intellectual faith. Many

people only believe this way — even the Devil!

We believe with our H____________... faith… an entrusting faith.This is why we stress in this church having a “personal relationship”with Jesus and asking him “into your heart.”

We believe with our H______________... an active faith—which

according to James is the evidence of a genuine faith.

These components of an active faith must work together like properly-aligned gearsin the engine of faith (see the illustration on accompanying page)

What two examples does James offer to illustrate his points from theOld Testament? Why do you think James chooses these two examples?

What does the life of Abraham reveal about the relationship betweenfaith and works? How would you answer James’ question: WasAbraham “considered righteous” ("justified"-ESV ~ "declared right byGod" ~ NLT) by what he did... when he offered Isaac his son on thealtar? (James 2:21-24). What does Abraham’s life show about therelationship between faith and works?

Abraham's faith was R______________ as genuine by hisactions …and so will our actions reveal our faith! (James 2:21;see Genesis 22:12; (see also Hebrews 11:17-19: "It was by faith that Abrahamoffered Isaac as a sacrifice when God was testing him. …Abraham assumed that if Isaacdied, God was able to bring him back to life again." (Hebrews 11:17-19 ~ NLT)

Abraham's faith was M___________________ by his actions

…and so will our faith be matured by our actions! (James 2:22).Do you remember what James said about the testing of our faith in 1:2-4?

THE LIFE OF ABRAHAM SHOWS… “And the scripture was fulfilledthat says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him asrighteousness,” and he was called God's friend. You see that a person isjustified by what he does and not by faith alone.” (James 2:23-24).

THEOLOGY Extra Credit: Does James’ conclusion: ‘You see that aperson is justified by what he does and not by faith alone.” (James 2:24)contradict Paul’s conclusion: “If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works,he had something to boast about—but not before God.” (Romans 4:2)?


Both James and Paul agree: We are not saved B______ good works, but

saved F______ good works! [“For it is by grace you have been saved, through

faith —and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that noone can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do [“for”– ESV] good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Eph. 2:8-10)]

APPLYING THE WORDHere’s a quiz, which “faith formula” correctly expresses the Biblical

balance that James is teaching here? What is the properly relationshipbetween faith, works and justification (i.e. right standing before God)?

FAITH + WORKS => JUSTIFICATION FAITH => JUSTIFICATION + WORKS

Saving faithinvolves theH_____________.


Saving faith involves the H_____________ andF_______________.


How Do I Know If My Faith is Real? – Pt. 3James 2:14-26

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WARMING UP: Last week, I asked you to consider “faith formula”correctly expresses the Biblical balance that James 2:14-26 has been

teaching about the relationship between faith, works and justification?

FAITH + WORKS => JUSTIFICATION*FAITH => JUSTIFICATION* + WORKS

*Justification = a right standing with God, to be declared righteous before God

REVIEW

THE KEY QUESTION: What is the relationship between faith and worksaccording to James 2:14-20? The Key Question …Stated… "If a man claims to have a faith, but has

no deeds... Can such faith save him?" (James 2:14). James is probing

the Q_______________ of a faith that saves and is genuine. The Key Question …Illustrated: "Suppose a brother or sister is without

clothes and daily food..." (James 2:15) He then asks, “What good isthat?” is a person says good things but refuses to help a person in need.

James is helping us see how we can D_______________ false from

genuine faith by drawing a parallel: (2:17) A Common Misunderstanding Refuted: ““You have faith; I have

deeds.” (James 2:18) If we think that faith and works can be

S__________________, then we have misunderstood faith itself. According to James 2:19, does the Devil have faith? Is it saving faith?

What is the difference between this kind of faith and the faith of someonewho is saved? Does this imply that there are different levels of beliefs?What are these levels and what kind of belief constitutes “saving” or “living”faith according to James?

We can believe with our H__________... an intellectual faith. Many

people only believe this way — even the Devil! (Correct doctrinewithout an active faith and genuine love is diabolic. Correct doctrine is

necessary but not enough.) We believe with our H____________... faith… an entrusting faith.

This is why we stress in this church having a “personal relationship”with Jesus and asking him “into your heart.”

We believe with our H______________... an acting faith—whichaccording to James is the evidence of a genuine faith.

What two examples does James offer to illustrate his points from the OldTestament? Why do you think James chooses these two examples?

What does the life of Abraham reveal about the relationship between faith andworks? How would you answer James’ question: Was Abraham“considered righteous” ("justified"-ESV ~ "declared right by God" ~ NLT)by what he did... when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? (James 2:21-24). What does Abraham’s life show about the relationship between faith andworks?

Abraham's faith was R______________ as genuine by his actions

…and so will our actions reveal our faith! (James 2:21; see Genesis 22:12)

Abraham's faith was M___________________ by his actions …andso will our faith be matured by our actions! (James 2:22). Do youremember what James said about the testing of our faith in 1:2-4?

THE LIFE OF ABRAHAM SHOWS… “And the scripture was fulfilledthat says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him asrighteousness,” and he was called God's friend. You see that a person isjustified by what he does and not by faith alone.” (James 2:23-24).

THEOLOGY Extra Credit: Does James’ conclusion: ‘You see that aperson is justified by what he does and not by faith alone.” (James 2:24)contradict Paul’s conclusion: “If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works,he had something to boast about—but not before God.” (Romans 4:2)?


“Where Paul denies the need for pre-conversion works, James emphasizesthe absolute necessity of post-conversion works.” (Craig Blomberg)

Both James and Paul agree: We are not saved B______ good works, but

saved F______ good works! [“For it is by grace you have been saved, through

faith —and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that noone can boast. For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do [“for”– ESV] good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Eph. 2:8-10)]

APPLYING THE WORDIn his book, Battling Unbelief, Pastor John Piper relates his encounterwith a man committing adultery (p. 136). Do you think Pastor John wasright to warn the man about hell? Do you think the adulterous man wasreally saved? Do you agree with Piper: “the faith that justifies is a faiththat also sanctifies… I do not mean that our faith produces a perfectflawlessness in this life (but it) produces a persevering fight (against thesekinds of sin.) Do you agree?



Saving faith involves the H_____________ andF_______________.


Does God Want Me Rich or Poor?James 1:9-11, 27, 2:1-13, 4:13-17, 5:1-6

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WARMING UP:Would you rather be rich or poor? Do you think God wants you to be rich

or poor? Why? By the world’s standards, are you rich or poor?

DIGGING INTO SCRIPTURELet’s read what James says about this: 1:9-11, 27, 2:1-13, 4:13-17, 5:1-6 What two groups of people is James speaking about in 1:9-11?

a. What are the poor believers told to do? What is God’s promise tothose who are physically poor but spiritually rich? According tothese verses, who does God honor (exult) in the end? How doesthis square with James half-brother’s views in Matthew 5:3, 5about the kind of life God blesses?

b. What are the rich told to boast in? Why?c. What word pictures does James use to teach us about the transitory

nature of worldly things? How should this affect our view of life?d. Both James (and Jesus) are teaching about a “great reversal” – that

the poor of this world who are spiritually rich now will inherit allthings in the world to come. What does this “great reversal” teachus about what will matter in eternity? How should this eternalperspective influence the way we live today?

What is situation in the church that James is warning against in 2:1-13? What does he urge the rich to do in this case? In what ways, canchurches in our day fall into this sin? What is the situation Jameswarns against in 5:1-13? What does he urge the poor to do in thiscase? What can we do today?

APPLYING THE WORD Respond to a fellow church member who says: “Come on, even St.

Paul says, ‘if you don’t work, you don’t eat…” (2 Thess. 3:6-15), Idon’t have sympathy for the poor because they do not know how towork hard.”

Back to our original question: Does God want us to be rich or poor?How do you think James would answer that question? Here are someconclusions we can make regarding this question:

1. Know the benefits and dangers! Poverty can be helpful when itopens our eyes to the eternal nature of things. Riches can bedangerous when it blinds our eyes to the eternal nature of things(1:9-11; 4:13-17)

2. Recognize that the financial shape we in now doesn’t compare tothe spiritual state we will be in after God’s judgment. Thosewho are rich in God’s approval now will be the acknowledged“winners” by God as Judgment Day (1:12)- the great reversal

3. Here’s a reason to want to be rich: You will have the resourcesto fulfill royal God’s law (1:27, 2:8, 15-16)

4. Here’s a reason to want to be poor: It is easier to be saved! (1:9,2:5, 4:13-17; see Matthew 19:23-24)

5. Both the rich and poor will be judge fairly by God. Each one ofus will give an account to God, and in the end, only God’s judgmentwill make anyone rich and happy in the end.

The two groups James refers to are the… “the believers in humble circumstances” (NIV) or “the lowly brother” or

“Christians who are poor” (NLT). The writer James uses two Greekwords to refer to the “poor” – one word uses in 1:9-11 refers to those oflower “social status” and the other word in chapter 2 refer to “economicstatus” and refer to the poor who are destitute. So, it is very possible thatsince James is writing to those “scattered” (James 1:1) because ofpersecution he is here speaking about those “had once been at leastsomewhat well-off financially but had their homes and other possessionsconfiscated or had to leave behind when fleeing their persecutors…”(John Macarthur, James, p.49)

“the one who is rich” (NIV) probably refers to Christians who arematerially rich by the world’s standards who should learn to “boast” intheir lowly spiritual state since their worldly riches will pass away.

John Macarthur explains why a rich man should boast in his humiliation:“a believer who is materially well-off, healthy and…physically blessedshould rejoice when trials come, for they teach the transitory nature ofmaterial things and their inability to give inner and lasting satisfaction…”(John Macarthur, James, p.51)


Does God Want Me Rich or Poor? – Pt. 2James 1:9-11, 27, 2:1-13, 4:13-17, 5:1-6

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WARMING UPWe have been asking the question, “Does God Want Me Rich or Poor?”So, how would you answer: “Does God want people to be prosperous?”React to the following statements by two of America’s mega-churchpreachers. Which one comes closest to your view? "Does God want us to be rich? ...I preach that anybody can improve their

lives. I think God wants us to be prosperous. I think he wants us to be happy.To me, you need to have money to pay your bills. I think God wants us tosend our kids to college. I think he wants us to be a blessing to other people.But I don't think I'd say God wants us to be rich. It's all relative, isn't it?"(Joel Osteen, Author & Mega Church Pastor)

"This idea that God wants everybody to be wealthy? …There is a word forthat: baloney. It's creating a false idol. You don't measure your self-worth byyour net worth. I can show you millions of faithful followers of Christ wholive in poverty. Why isn't everyone in the church a millionaire?" (Rick Warren,Author & Mega Church Pastor)

In that article, a Time poll was quoted: ___% said they believed that “Godwants people to be prosperous.”

[Taken from a Time magazine September 2006 cover article, “Does God Want You to be Rich?” Read thearticle at more:http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1533448-2,00.html#ixzz14Frog9rW ]

DIGGING INTO SCRIPTURELet’s read what James says about this question and the underlying issuesabout the rich and the poor in the church of Jesus Christ in: 1:9-11, 27,2:1-13, 4:13-17, 5:1-6 Last week, when we had a lengthy (and unfortunately, somewhat

confusing) discussion about a very difficult to understand subject ofthe Divine Reversal in James 1:9-11. What does it mean to be “poor in spirit” in Matthew 5:3-5? In what ways does Rev 3:17-18 provide a backdrop in which to

understand this Divine reversal… how the rich need to become poorto be really rich?

“…the poor are rich because God has blessed them with the riches ofChrist's grace, and the rich are blessed in God's sight because theyrecognize how poor they are without Him spiritually.” (Babette, mywife who summarized our study last week better than I did)

What is situation in the church that James is chiding the church aboutin 2:1? Why is this wrong in God’s eyes? In what ways, canchurches in our day fall into this sin?

When James says, “Did not God choose the poor in eyes of the worldto be rich in faith…” is he stating (or at least implying) that the poorare chosen by God for salvation preferentially above the rich? Howmight we understand this statement in light of Matthew 19:23-24?

What is the situation James rails against in James 2:6-7? What shouldhave been happening according to 2:8-13?

According to James 5:1-6, what are the “sins of the rich” outlined inthis section? Do you think these rich people indicted by James areprofessing believers? Do you agree with Rick Warren’s statement: “Idon't think it is a sin to be rich. I think it is a sin to die rich.” Do youthink this aptly summarizes James’ concerns about wealth?

APPLYING THE WORD Respond to a fellow church member who says the following, “Come

on, even St. Paul says, ‘if you don’t work, you don’t eat…” (2 Thess.3:6-15), I don’t have sympathy for the poor because they do not knowhow to work hard.”

Back to our original question: Does God want us to be rich or poor?How do you think James would answer that question? Here are someconclusions we can make regarding this question:

1. Know the benefits and dangers! Poverty can be helpful when itopens our eyes to the eternal nature of things. Riches can bedangerous when it blinds our eyes to the eternal nature of things(1:9-11; 4:13-17)

2. Recognize that the financial shape we in now doesn’t compare tothe spiritual state we will be in after God’s judgment. Thosewho are rich in God’s approval now will be the acknowledged“winners” by God as Judgment Day (1:12)- the great reversal

3. Here’s a reason to want to be rich: You will have the resourcesto fulfill royal God’s law (1:27, 2:8, 15-16)

4. Here’s a reason to want to be poor: It is easier to be saved! (1:9,2:5, 4:13-17; see Matthew 6:19-21, 24-25, 19:23-24)

5. Both the rich and poor will be judge fairly by God. Each one ofus will give an account to God, and in the end, only God’s judgmentwill make anyone rich and happy in the end.


How to Start (or Not!) a Fire in the Church with My Tongue – Pt. 1James 1:19-21, 26, 3:1-18, 4:1-2, 11-17, 5:12

______________________________________________________________________________

WARMING UPSeveral years ago, a TV newswoman got herself into trouble when her

“live mic” continued to transmit when she was off-the-air. Can you thinkof a time when your “live mic” got you into trouble?

DIGGING INTO SCRIPTUREJames has a lot to say about this question in the following verses: 1:19-21,26, 3:1-18, 4:1-2, 11-17, 5:1-6, 12. Today, we’ll begin to see what James

has to say about the appropriate and inappropriate use of the tongue.

Read James 1:19-21, 26. In many ways, this is a central theme ofthe letter: how we use our tongues wisely (or unwisely).

According to 1:19, what are the three proverbial commands? Whatare we to be “quick” and “slow” to do? If you were to re-write thesecommands to correspond to how many people actually behave, whatwould the verse say? Does this verse describe how you live? Howyou would like to live?

“We are told to ‘hurry up and listen’… implying the idea of rapidpursuit… here ‘slow’… indicates a sense of hesitation or delay.”(Blomberg & Kamell, Exegetical Commentary… James, p. 85) Can you thinkof any ways to speed up your listening and slowing down yourspeaking?

The text cautions to be slow to speak. In what ways is being quick tospeak a sin? Is it ever sinful to be too slow to speak? According toJames 5:19, when would it be commendable to speak up?(“However “slow to speak” scarcely means “never speak” for wemust proclaim truth in many contexts.” Blomberg & Kamell, ExegeticalCommentary… James, p. 86)

Does this text say that all anger is always sinful? (see Ephesians4:26-27 & John 2:13-16). What “kind” of anger is James warning usagainst?

Is there a “snowball” effect between listening-speaking-anger? Hereis how the link is described by one commentator: “Speaking andwrath link together whenever anger provokes hasty speech, and oftenboth of these problems stem from inadequate listening.” (Blomberg &

Kamell, Exegetical Commentary… James, p. 86) Can you think of timewhen a failure in your listening/speaking led to an angry outburst?

According to 1:20, why should we avoid wrathful anger?

According to 1:21, how should we avoid wrathful anger? To see thefull instruction, see James 1:22-25

According to 1:26, what test does James suggest we employ todetermine whether someone’s religion is worthwhile? Does thissurprise you? In what way does Jesus’ statement in Matt 12:36-37help us understand this criteria of true religion?

How does a uncontrolled tongue affect recipients? And, accordingto 1:26, how does an uncontrolled tongue affect the speaker?

According to James 4:1-2, 11-17, what other uses of the tongue leadto sin in our lives? What is a proper use of the tongue in each of theseinstances?

APPLYING THE WORD

"Negative people make healthy people sick." (Roger Ailes).

Maybe this statement can challenge us in two ways tonight…1) Make sure we filter what comes out of our M___________...

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of my mouth, butonly what is helpful for building others up according to theirneeds, that it may benefit those who listen.... (Ephesians 4:29)

2) Make sure we filter what comes into our E_________...“As charcoal to embers and as wood to fire, so is a quarrelsomeman for kindling strife. The words of a gossip are like choicemorsels; they go down to a man's inmost parts.” (Prov 26:21-22)


How to Start (or Not!) a Fire in the Church with My Tongue – Pt. 2James 1:19-21, 26, 3:1-18, 4:1-2, 11-17, 5:12

______________________________________________________________________________

WARMING UPJerry Bridges wrote a book entitled, Respectable Sins: Confronting theSins We Tolerate (NavPress, 2007) in which he wrote: “…Conservativeevangelicals may have become so preoccupied with some of the majorsins of society around us that we have lost sight of the need to deal withour own more ‘refined’ or subtle sins.”(p. 9).

Do you agree with his assessment? What do you think some of the “respectable sins” Christians often

overlook in themselves? What are the ways we sin with our speech? Why are sins of

speech often overlooked as not serious* How can a person be hurt by the words of others?* What can you learn about a person by listening to him or her

speak?*DIGGING INTO SCRIPTURE

James has a lot to say about this question in the following verses: 1:19-21,26, 3:1-18, 4:1-2, 11-17, 5:1-6, 12. Today, we’ll continue to see what

James has to say about the use of the tongue.

Last week, we studied James 1:19-21, 26. In many ways, this is acentral theme of the letter: how we use our tongues wisely (orunwisely).

According to 1:19, what are the three proverbial commands? Whatare we to be “quick” and “slow” to do?

According to 1:26, what test does James suggest we employ todetermine whether someone’s religion is worthwhile? Does thissurprise you? Does the statement of Jesus in Matthew 12:36-37help us understand this criterion of true religion?

After reading James 3:1-12, discuss the following questions*

What unique responsibility does a teacher bear? (3:1) If a person were never at fault in what he or she said, what would

that show about the person? (3:2) What is significant about the way we talk? (3:2)

What is the purpose of a bit in the mouth of a horse? (3:3) What is the purpose of the rudder of a ship? (3:4) What damage can a small spark cause to a great forest? (3:4) What similarity does a person’s tongue have to a horse’s bit, a

ship’s rudder, and a spark of fire? (3:5) How did James describe the tongue? (3:6-8) What damage do our tongues do to us? (3:6) What is so difficult about taming the tongue? (3:7-8) Of what inconsistencies are we capable? (3:9-10) In what ways are we inconsistent? (3:9-10) What illustrations from nature did James use to condemn cursing?

(3:11-12) What can a spring or a fruit tree teach us about speech? (3:11-12)

According to James 4:1-2, 11-17, what other uses of the tongue leadto sin in our lives? What is the ultimate cause of these verbalsquabbles?

APPLYING THE WORD

If you could hear a tape recording of everything you said lastweek, what would you want to edit out?*

"Negative people make healthy people sick." (Roger Ailes).

Do you think the following statement is also true? “People withunbridled tongues make a healthy church sick”

Maybe this statement can challenge us in two ways tonight…1) Make sure we filter what comes out of our M___________...

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of my mouth, butonly what is helpful for building others up according to theirneeds, that it may benefit those who listen.... (Ephesians 4:29)

2) Make sure we filter what comes into our E___________... “Ascharcoal to embers and as wood to fire, so is a quarrelsome manfor kindling strife. The words of a gossip are like choice morsels;they go down to a man's inmost parts.” (Prov 26:21-22)

---------*Questions used from Lesson-Maker 8


Knowing God’s Will… The Way of Wisdom______________________________________________________________________________

WARMING UP: If a friend asked you, “How do I know God’s will?”What would you tell them?

We have been taking a topical approach to studying the Epistle of James. Take alook at the topics we’ve studied so far… Do you have any questions so far? How do I face trials and temptations without being crushed? (1:3-5, 12-18; 5:7-12)

When is studying the Bible dangerous to your spiritual life? (1:16-27; 3:1)

How can I know if my faith is real? Or, Does my faith need my works to go toheaven? (1:26-27; 2:14-26)

In God's eyes, is it better for me to be rich or poor? (1:9-11; 1:27-2:13; 5:1-6)

How do I start a fire with my tongue? (1:26, 3:1-12; 4:11-12; 5:12)

Here are some of the topics we hope to get to as we finish up this study in James. Do I need a special theology degree to know God's will? (1:5-8, 19-25; 3:13-4:1-3,

4:13-17; 5:13-20)

Should I expect God to answer my prayers? (1:5-7; 4:2b-3; 5:13-20)

Why do relationships among church folk sometimes break apart into pettysquabbling? (1:19-21; 3:13-18; 4:1-2, 7-12)

Can I be friends with the world and with God? (1:27, 4:4-10)

Since my sins are forgiven in Christ, will I still be "judged" by God? (1:12; 2:12-13;3:1; 4:11-12; 5:7-9)

DIGGING DEEPER: Today, we’ll be looking at these two related questions

According to James 1:5-8, 4:1-3, 5:13-17 what is a key way to find

God’s will? … By A__________ God for wisdom (1:5; 4:2; 5:13).

Why don’t we always turn first to God in prayer? Is prayer hardfor you? What are some of the reasons prayer can be hard?

According to 1:6-8, what are we to ask for? What is the true

measure of W____________ according to James 3:13-18?

According to 1:6-8, are there any conditions for God to answer ourprayers? According to 4:4-7, why will God not answer the prayersof a “double-minded” person?

According to 4:1-2, what are some of the reasons we don’t turn toGod in prayer to find his will? According to 4:3, what could be areason God wouldn’t grant our prayer requests? Why?

Have you ever prayed for something that was not granted? Haveyou ever been thankful later on that God mercifully did not giveyou what you asked for?

Is it wrong to ask God when we are desperate… at our “last rope”?According to 5:13-18, how can we prayerfully involve others inour troubles?

According to James 1:17-21, 5:13-20; what is another key way tofind God’s will? … By L___________ ___ to God and other wisepeople in our lives! Are there times when we may to want to know God’s direction for

our lives without wanting God’s rule in our lives? Can we haveknowledge of God’s will without submission to God? Why?

According to 1:19, what are we to be quick to do? How does thisrelated to discovering God’s will?

According to 1:18 & 21, what images does James use to describehow God works in our lives through His Word? … The Word ofGod is like a S____________ which gives us “birth” (1:18) and is“planted” (1:21) in us.

Is it possible to know God’s will without spending time in God’sWord? What are some of the challenges to you find to spendingtime in God’s Word? Do any of you have some time-tested adviceto help someone who might be struggling to spend time in God’sWord?

According to 5:13-20, who else should we be listening to as weseek God’s relief and God’s will for our lives?

According to James 1:21-25; 4:13-17, what is another key way tofind God’s will? … By D_________________ what God’s Wordsays to do! According to 1:21-25, can we expect to be “in the center of God’s

will” if we merely hear God’s Word, but don’t act upon it? Why?How do we know if we are really listening to God’s Word? Whatimage does James use to describe a person who “hears” but doesnot “do” God’s Word?

According to 4:13-16, what should our attitude about the futurebe… should we make plans for the future? How should we planfor the future?

According to 4:17, what is the connection between our willing tobe obedient to God today (present obedience) and God’s ability tolead us tomorrow (future leading)? What is the definition of sinaccording to this verse?

APPLYING THE WORDASK……. LISTEN…….. DO…… Is there a step you can take this week

to be more eager to discover and do God’s will for your life?


The Judgment of God______________________________________________________________________________

WARMING UP: What is the most important day of your life?“The most important day in my life in my future, the day that will have the greatest

impact on eternity for me, is the day I stand before the judgment seat of Christ.”(Woodrow Kroll, Facing Your Final Job Review)

We’ve studied a number of interesting topics in our studying the Epistle ofJames. Today, as we end our study of James: Active Faith, we will consider thisquestion: If my sins are forgiven in Christ, will I still be "judged" by God?

DIGGING DEEPER There are a number of references in James to God’s judgment and

reward(s) of his people. Let’s look at each reference in James (inorder) and then we’ll try to make sense of it. 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 haspromised to those who love him.”

James 2:12-13: “Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by thelaw that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown toanyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!”

James 3:1: “Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers,because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.”

James 4:11-12: “Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaksagainst his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. Whenyou judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save anddestroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?”

James 5:7-9: “Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord's coming. See howthe farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop and how patient he isfor the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, becausethe Lord's coming is near. Don't grumble against each other, brothers, oryou will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door!”

In light of these verse, let’s discuss the following questions: Will all people be judged, even Christians? Will every Christian be judged in the same light? Will some

be judged differently than others? Will some receive greaterpraise or reward on that Day than others?

How should we respond to people who unfairly judge us? If we know we are going to be judged tomorrow, how should

this affect how we live today? How can this be both a sourceof concern and/or encouragement to me?

Knowing what Christ and the whole Bible teaches on this matter willbetter prepare us for that Day.“The teachings of Jesus show us that there are two keys thatdetermine everything about your eternity.” (Bruce Wilkerson, A Life GodRewards)

About Salvation … Jesus and the whole Bible is crystal clear… Your Beliefin Jesus Christ as your personal Savior is the key to unlocking the door tosalvation and determines W___________________ you will spend eternity(John 3:16-18, 5:24; Ephesians 2:8-10; Titus 3:4-7; Rev 20:11-15).

About Rewards … Jesus and the whole Bible is consistent on this… YourBehavior in this life is the key to unlocking the door to reward andrecompense and determines H__________________ you will spend eternity(2 Corinthians 5:10; 1 Corinthians 3:12-15; 4:5; 2 Timothy 4:8; Matthew16:24-27; Revelation 22:12).

In 2 Corinthians 5:10 and 1 Corinthians 3:10-15, the Apostle Paulteaches about a future judgment of believers. What does Paul teachwill happen to every believer?

a. According to 3:10-13, what will happen on this Day?b. According to 3:14-15, what will be the two potential results of this

testing by fire?c. What will be the outcome for each?

How is this judgment time different than the one described inRevelation 20:11-15? What will be the outcome for the people underthis judgment?

APPLYING THE WORDMatthew Henry said, “It ought to be the business of every day to prepare

for our last day.” How might understanding the Biblical doctrine ofjudgment and rewards impact the way you live today?

Documents

James- Active Faith (Bible Study Series)