James

Author: James
Type of Book: General Epistle
Date of Writing: AD 45-50
Theme: Practical Christian living

The book of James is the first of what are called the General Epistles, which include James, 1-2 Peter, 1-3 John, and Jude. These are called General Epistles because they were not addressed to a particular church or individual, but were intended for circulation among the believers.

James, the half-brother of Jesus, wrote this book. Initially Jesus' brothers didn't believe in Him. But after Jesus' resurrection, and probably after meeting Him personally in His post-resurrection appearances, they realized that He was really God in the flesh, the Savior of the world, and it changed their lives forever.

It is interesting, however, that in writing this book James didn't cite his relationship to Jesus for his credentials. If it were me, I would have said, "I'm Chuck, the half-brother of Jesus." I'd want people to know how important I am. Instead, James identified himself as "a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ" (Jas. 1:1).

Written around AD 45, most scholars believe that the book of James is one of the oldest of all the New Testament books. James became the leader of the church in Jerusalem, as we read in Acts 15:4-18. (See also Acts 21:18; Gal. 1:19, 2:9-12.) He addressed this epistle to the Jewish Christians who were scattered all over the known world as they were beginning to suffer persecution.

James is perhaps the most practical book in the New Testament. Although it contains some important doctrinal teachings, it is mainly practical advice on how to live the Christian life. This book addresses the prejudices that we are so prone to hold. It addresses issues about money, the tongue, pride, strife, and so many other practical issues we face on a daily basis. James communicates that the Christian life should not be a belief system and philosophy to which we give mental assent; rather it is a way of life. It is something to be believed and acted upon.

Whenever I think of the book of James, I can't help but think of Romaine, a man who served as my assistant for so many years at Calvary Chapel, until he went home to be with the Lord. Romaine was a retired Marine sergeant, and he acted like one. He had a tough exterior, but deep inside he had a heart for the Lord and a love for God's people. Romaine loved the book of James and taught it often. He had a practical way of applying the Word that was much like the style of James. He would just cut to the chase and call you to an honest application of the Word. Sometimes it hurt, but you knew you needed it. If our faith doesn't result in evidence of a changed life, then that faith is dead. Fruit follows faith; obedience follows belief.

-from Pastor Chuck Smith from The Word for Today Bible