Are You Living By God’s Wisdom?
LESSONS FROM THE EPISTLE OF JAMES. Have you seen a yard sign like the one below? Many members of the church here display a yard sign inviting the community to come to this page every Monday for a new article. Scroll down to view all previous articles in this series.
Click here to make a comment or leave us a message.
Monday, September 16, 2024
Article #36: Turning Back a Straying Christian
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
James gives one final word of encouragement to his “brethren.” He is concerned about the “brother” or “sister” who has strayed “from the truth.” James expresses how important it is for Christians to work at turning back a straying Christian to “the truth.” (James 5:19, 20).
James points out that “any among you” can stray from the truth. He understands that Christians, believers in Christ, can stray from the truth. While Christians should never stray from the truth, if they do, a fellow Christian needs to help them come back to the truth.
The concept of “to stray” means to wander from a course of action, which in this context is the teachings of “the truth.” It is leaving the teachings of Christ and going back to living the life a person lived before becoming a Christian. When a person does this, they are facing spiritual death if they do not turn back.
While James gives this word of warning, he also gives a word of instruction. He speaks to those who have not strayed and instructs them to take action upon those who have strayed. James wants them to know that the Christian “who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save [the sinner’s] soul from death.” James also wants them to know that in the process of turning one back, they have covered “a multitude of sins.”
What a fitting way to close his book by emphasizing the saving of a soul from death. All the things James wrote in this book are about how one should live because they are a Christian. Would it not seem quite logical to encourage his readers that they should work with and help Christians who have strayed from the truth? It is all about helping each other.
In helping others, we need to be constantly reminded that we too may need some help coming back. We should always be living our lives in such a manner so that we will not stray from the truth. Christians need to be diligent in examining themselves to make sure they are abiding in the truth and not straying from it.
Here’s one final thought about helping a straying Christian to turn back to following God. When the straying Christian sees the love we have for them and our kindness and gentleness in dealing with them, then our efforts become more powerful to them.
Christians need to be looking out for each other and be willing to help each other “turn back” if one has strayed from the truth. Providing this help is just one of the ways a Christian is demonstrating they are living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, September 9, 2024
Article #35: Confessing Our Sins
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
Listing things we are to be praying about for others, James includes confessing our sins to one another and praying for each other (James 5:16). There are several benefits Christians can enjoy if we will practice confessing our sins to one another.
Confessing means to admit, state or acknowledge some wrong that has been done. This can only come about by an honest evaluation of ourselves after we have learned that we have done something wrong. Sometimes we know something is wrong before we do it, but we do it anyway. This is rebellion. In this case there needs to be two confessions – one for the wrong done and another for the rebellion.
Honest evaluation requires not hiding anything from ourselves. The goal is to lay it all out in front of us. We are going to “own up to it.” We are not going to try to hide it or avoid it. We are not going to rationalize our actions by saying that it was the right thing to do. We are not going to blame someone else for doing something to cause us to do this wrong. We are going to be truthful with ourselves and others.
This kind of openness will help us to avoid doing wrong or sinful things in the future. It helps us to think in advance as to whether we want to do something wrong knowing that we will have to later admit the wrong. Why would we want to do something we know is the wrong thing to do?
When we confess our sins to one another, fellow Christians are in a better position to help each other. Notice James says for Christians to “confess our sins to one another, and pray for one another.” The “one another” in this passage is the individual church member in a local congregation. To say it another way, it is regular folks praying for regular folks. Christians are trying to help each other to be right with God and go to heaven.
So what benefit is it for the person who hears us confess our sins? They get the opportunity to serve another Christian. But, they also receive the benefit of setting the example of doing the right thing so there is no need to confess their sins. It serves as protection against doing the wrong thing.
Confessing our sins to one another is hard, but it is a necessary thing all Christians must do. Likewise, all Christians must be willing to pray for each another after listening to someone confess their sins. By being willing to engage in this mutual activity we are helping each other to be living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, September 2, 2024
Article #34: Praying on Behalf of Others
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
What should a church community do when one of its members is suffering? James says to pray. What if someone is sick? James says call the elders to pray and anoint them with oil. What if someone has confessed their sins? James says to pray. Christians are to pray on the behalf of others (James 5:13-18).
When there are difficulties in one’s life, James says the church community should pray for that individual. When things are going well for a church member, there should be the singing of praises. In either circumstance, church members should be involved in the lives of others by praying for them. It should be something members want to do. They should be willing to ask for God’s assistance when fellow members are incurring difficult times and circumstances.
Their suffering may be from the loss of a job. It may be because of an accident resulting in some hardship. They may have received some bad news about a loved one. Christians should be willing to pray on the behalf of fellow Christians.
There may be some sickness a member is incurring and James says to not only pray, but have the elders of the church to come and anoint them with oil. James says that if this is done, then the Lord will “restore the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up.”
This is a very difficult passage to understand because we see on a regular basis the church praying for a member who is sick, but that member does not get well. How should we to deal with this passage? It may apply to physical sickness, but the more reasonable approach might be a “spiritual sickness.” If this is the correct understanding then a person would be healed of their sickness and raised up when they confess their sins and the congregation prays for them.
Regardless of how this verse should be interpreted, the important thing to remember is that in all circumstances church members should be praying for each other. Church members should always remember the example of Elijah and that the “effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.”
Church members should also remember that prayer is a request to God and He will decide how He wants to answer that prayer. Just because we get what we think is a “negative” answer, does not mean God did not answer our prayer.
The responsibility of the Christian is to always be praying on the behalf of others. We all need the assistance of God with our daily circumstances. Praying for others will be a regular practice of those who are living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, August 26, 2024
Article #33: Speaking Without Swearing
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
When we speak, people should be able to rely on what we say. We should not have to “swear” by anything to convince them that we are speaking the truth. James gives another proverb-like statement to remind us that we should be speaking without swearing (James 5:12).
In many cases, people think that if they swear by something then what they are about to say will carry more weight. It will be more authentic. It will be more reliable; more believable.
James may be remembering something his half-brother Jesus would frequently teach His disciples. Jesus taught His followers we should not swear by heaven, for it is “the throne of God.” We should not swear by “our hair” because we cannot make “one hair white or black” (Matthew 5:33-37).
Over a period of time, people should come to have confidence in what we say. This means that we are always telling the truth. They should be able to trust the information we pass on to them. Someone should be able to say about us, “If he said it, then it is true. I can count on it. I trust him.”
When this is not the case, we are not reliable; people will not trust us. This a basic character trait people want to see in others. Employers want to trust their employees. Customers want to trust the sales representative. Consumers want to trust what they read in a variety of Platforms, including a website, newspaper article or radio broadcast.
Children want to trust what their parents tell them. Husbands and wives want to trust what their spouses tell them. Students want to trust what their teachers tell them. Everyone wants to trust what they are told.
However, when our “yes” is not “yes” and our “no” is not “no,” then it raises doubts in the mind of the listener. They must decide if we are telling the truth. This puts stress on them and the relationship. When the stress level reaches a certain point, then people will conclude they cannot trust us and they will not pay attention to what we have said.
This will cause problems at work, in the family, at school and any other environment where we are interacting with people. If we are not telling the truth, our words are not reliable, then when we speak to someone about spiritual matters, they will not listen to us either. We have no credibility.
As we consider this statement by James, Christians need to develop the consistent practice to always be telling the truth without having to swear by something. Practicing speech without swearing will allow people to see we are daily living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, August 19, 2024
Article #32: Job and the Prophets Are Examples
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
As James continues his discussion of practicing patience, he states that Christians should not complain “against one another,” giving as examples Job and the prophets. He reminds us that we see in the prophets examples of “suffering and patience” and in Job how to “endure” to the end. God demonstrated His compassion and mercy with both (James 5:9-11).
By using Job and the prophets as examples, James is explaining that the Old Testament illustrates principles by which Christians are to live. It shows us the lives of “real people” who were powerful illustrations of believers in God.
In order to fully appreciate the reference by James to these individuals, we must be acquainted with the Old Testament Scriptures. We should be encouraged to not only read the Old Testament to see these great examples, but also study it to understand their struggles.
Included in this section of James is a reference possibly to the complaining the Israelites did while they were wandering in the wilderness for forty years. A study of the writings of Exodus and Numbers would be beneficial in understanding what is meant by the word “complain” in this passage.
When James mentions the idea of judging, he is probably speaking of trivial matters. This type of complaining is what generates strife and conflict between individuals. It is not good for a group of Christians in a local church setting for sure. The group is not edified, nor built up, when this type of behavior is active and tolerated.
However, there must be a sense in which we are to judge if we are going to obey the instructions of James to imitate the example he mentions. James is saying these people were considered “blessed” because they endured.
The focus of the prophets was to encourage the citizens of Israel and Judah to be followers of God. These prophets were not treated kindly or fairly because of their message. They were often persecuted because they were delivering God’s message.
Jeremiah is an outstanding example to consider. He preached for over 40 years in an effort to get the nation of Judah to repent so they would not be taken into Babylonian captivity. As we read the Old Testament book of Jeremiah, we should be impressed with not only Jeremiah’s struggles and frustrations, but also his determination to never quit serving God.
Job and the Prophets provide a great example of being patient and waiting for the Lord to judge. When we complain among ourselves, we do not encourage others to persevere until the end. Remembering that the Lord is coming one day should be a constant motivator to be living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, August 12, 2024
Article #31: Be Patient, Jesus is Coming!
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
The book of James contains short saying that encourage Christians in so many ways. James writes for Christians to be patient; Jesus is coming (James 5:7, 8).
It may have been a decade or two after Jesus had ascended into heaven when James wrote this exhortation. Ever since His ascension and the promise the angel made to the apostles of His return (Acts 1:9-11), the message had been proclaimed that Jesus is going to return. But people’s patience is not very long. Normally our ability to persevere is only for a short period of time. We soon lose heart.
Reassuring his readers that Jesus will return, James says not to give up regardless of the circumstances. He uses an agricultural illustration of a farmer waiting for the “precious produce of the soil … until it gets the early and late rains.”
Encouraging us to “strengthen [our] hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near,” James tells Christians to “place firmly” in our hearts (our minds) the fact that Jesus will return. False teachers will present the idea that Jesus is not going to return, since He has not returned yet. James does not want us to waiver nor give up on serving Jesus. He wants us to be constant in our thinking.
While we do not know when, we need to have the fullest of confidence that this promise made by God and Jesus, through the angels to the apostles, will come true. Be patient, Jesus is coming!
Some may think that the time is near because of things happening in our world today. We need to be reminded that these events are not “something new,” but rather are the same things that have been happening for years. However, whether Jesus returns in the next week, year, or decade, Christians need to be ready. Jesus may not come back for another two thousand years or longer, but we need to be ready for Him to return today.
Christians not only need to be ready for Jesus to return today, but we need to be persuading non-Christians to be ready for Jesus’ return also. We need to inform others that this event will happen, and not to consider the time between when Jesus said He was coming back and today as a sign that He is not coming. He will return one day!
So while Christians are being patient about the coming of Jesus, let us be busy convincing others of this fact. Let us not lose heart, but rather strengthen our hearts to have the full assurance Jesus is coming. Until that great and glorious day, Christians should continue to be living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, August 5, 2024
Article #30: Treating Service Providers Fairly
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
One of the problems in the days of James was the mistreatment of the poor by the rich. The rich would treat any way they wanted those who provided a service for them. James says the rich must treat people fairly (James 5:4-6).
James tells the rich they should not be withholding the wages of those who “mowed [their] fields” or harvested their crops. In both situations, the service providers were crying out to the Lord against the rich.
James points out that the rich have lived in “wanton pleasure,” they have “fattened [their] hearts” and yet they “have condemned and put to death the righteous man.” The rich were getting away with this behavior because the “servants” did not resist those for whom they were working.
The point James is making with this last comment is that the rich were taking advantage of the poor simply because they could. The rich were not thinking that the poor needed their daily wages so they could eat and provide for their families. This amounts to thinking only about themselves and not the other person.
Having the status of being rich does not remove the fact that everyone is a human being and we all have the same feelings and desires. The amount of money in our bank account or the sum of our collective assets, does not change the basic feelings and desires everyone has. We all want to provide the necessities for our family.
It is a common trait of some rich to think they have certain privileges. While he is probably also including those who are not Christians with these remarks, James is saying that within the Christian brotherhood this should not be the case when dealing with fellow Christians. He is wanting his readers who are rich to be treating fairly those who are providing a service to them.
In a local church setting, the rich do not have special rights or advantages over the poor. The monetary status of a church member is of no importance. Likewise, the poor church member does not need to think he is inferior to the rich. Everyone should be treated the same. We are “brothers and sisters.” We are equal.
In many situations, a person being rich or poor is the result of opportunities that are presented to them. Both may work very hard for the monies they obtain.
As a person who is “rich” we must always remember that we must treat the service provider fairly, regardless of whether they are a Christian or not. Every Christian must remember to treat people fairly because that is a mandatory characteristic of those who are living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, July 29, 2024
Article #29: Riches Do Not Eliminate Miseries
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
Often the wealthy consider that their riches and assets will keep them from the miseries of this life. James advises his readers that this idea is incorrect. Riches will not prevent us from encountering miseries (James 5:1-3).
James says their “riches have rotted” and their “garments have become moth-eaten.” In other words, they have no value. They are not helpful when it comes to dealing with miseries.
James goes on to say, “Your gold and your silver have rusted,” meaning their money is worn out. It will not help them with life’s miseries.
We must be reminded that miseries will come upon all people of every economic status. It is a part of life that we cannot escape. Misery is not partial. It does not discriminate. It will happen to everyone.
An interesting comment James makes is, “It is in the last days that you have stored up your treasure!” He seems to be indicating that acquiring their riches, gold, silver, and fine garments has been their focus, and James wants to draw attention to this mindset. He wants them to consider that their focus should not be upon their wealth, but rather upon the spiritual things.
It must be acknowledged that in our life here on earth we need to be concerned about our wealth. We do need to accumulate wealth for the proverbial “rainy day.” However, this should not be the focal point of our life. It should not be top priority.
Instead of “storing up treasures” here on earth, we need to be storing up treasures in Heaven (Matthew 6:19-21). James may be recalling something he heard his step-brother say in one of His sermons. We should be putting things in the “Heavenly bank.” Our energy should be upon accumulating “spiritual wealth.”
It is very hard to keep this concept ever before us because of all the daily activities and stress put upon our lives. We are not unique in this perspective. We are not the first ones to have this issue in life and definitely won’t be the last. It has been a constant struggle throughout man’s history.
As we consider our own lives, it would be to our advantage to regularly ask the question, which treasure am I focusing on? Which is most important to me? Which will help me to go to Heaven?
James is not condemning the accumulation of wealth. He is saying that the accumulation of wealth should not be our focus in life. He reminds us that our riches will not eliminate the miseries we encounter in life. He wants Christians to focus on “storing up a spiritual treasure” as they are daily living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, July 22, 2024
Article #28: Not Doing What is Right
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
Once again James makes a proverb-like statement when he says, “To one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin” (James 4:17). James is saying that not doing what is right is a sin, which is a very powerful statement considering its ramifications.
Most of the time we think of sin as violating God’s law, and that is true. The apostle John said that “sin is lawlessness” (1 John 3:4), which means that our actions and attitudes are without the approval of the law. However, James is telling us that if we do not do what is right it also is sin.
So we might ask, how would not doing what is right be a sin? James is stating that we must always be doing what is right, especially when we know it is the right thing to do. Some have called this the sin of omission, a failure to act upon that which a person has a moral or legal obligation to do.
In the preceding verses, James has written about quarrels among brethren, friendship with the world, God’s attitude toward those who are resisting Him with a prideful attitude, judging fellow Christians, and making plans for tomorrow without any consideration for the plans of God. With all of these things in the background, James is saying that we should not do these things, but if we do them, we are committing a sin.
It seems that all of the previous things James has written about are considerations of our attitude. While these attitudes can be seen in our actions, James is not talking about an actions. He is talking about how we view life, our brethren, and our circumstances.
It is much harder to do what we know is right, and sometimes, we do the easy thing and fail to do what is right. Most of the time, we do not want to do what is right because of our own personal feelings and desires.
We want to quarrel with our brethren because of what they have done to us. We want to have a friendship with the world because we enjoy all the worldly pleasures. We want to do our own will rather than submitting to God’s will. We want to just assume that God will allow whatever plans we have made to happen, and therefore we think we have control of our lives.
Ultimately we do not do what is right because we want to satisfy our own selfish desires. However, the Christian must always be doing what is right, especially since they have an enthusiastic desire to be living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, July 15, 2024
Article #27: Making Plans for Tomorrow
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
When it comes to making plans, James gives some excellent advice (James 4:13-16). We all make plans for tomorrow, but James is telling us that we need to keep in mind that our plans are subject to God’s plans; we are not the one with ultimate control in life.
James acknowledges the fact that life cannot be lived without making plans. He writes about “going into a city” and spending a year there doing business. But, James makes a very honest and brutal statement. We “do not know what [our] life will be like tomorrow.” While acknowledging this intellectually, we do not always put it into practice.
James paints a very good picture by saying, “You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.” When visualizing these words, we see how short life really is. From God’s perspective the length of our life is but a “vapor … [that] vanishes away.”
James gives us the proper attitude toward making plans. He says we should say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that.” Regardless of whether we literally say the words “if the Lord wills” out loud or not, we should always have the attitude that our actions are always contingent upon “the will of the Lord.”
If we keep this concept in mind, we realize that God is ultimately the one who approves or disapproves of every action people make. God is not necessarily making the decision, but all decisions are subject to His plans.
When James says we “boast in [our] arrogance,” he is identifying our attitude when it comes to making plans for tomorrow. To “boast” is to talk with “excessive pride” about what one has accomplished or is doing. Having pride is not the issue here, but rather “excessive pride,” which in this context is manifested in thinking we control every aspect of our lives. This is not true. Our plans are always subject to the decisions God will make. For example, how long will the world continue to exist? Only God, the Father, knows.
We are not in control of what will happen in our lives medically. We have no control over the actions of others who might cause an accident, or how another’s actions might change the plans we have made for tomorrow.
Based upon the fact that we do not know what tomorrow will bring, everyone, especially Christians, should be living their lives with the understanding that our plans can never be “cut in stone,” they are always subject to change. Having this attitude and understanding, we can make plans for tomorrow as we are living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, July 8, 2024
Article #26: Humans Are Neither the Lawgiver Nor the Judge
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
James gives another proverb-like command when he talks about speaking and judging negatively about our fellow Christians. He says Christians are not to “speak against one another” nor are they to “judge [their] brother” (James 4:11, 12).
Addressing them as “brethren,” James says when a person slanders another Christian then they are “speaking against the law.” Their motivation is to expose someone so as to bring shame upon them by giving false information or misrepresenting truthful information. The intent is to disgrace.
When a Christian tries to censure someone by pronouncing a judgment upon them, then he is judging the law. He is passing judgment upon another person’s opinion so as to condemn them. This is different when it comes to biblical truth, from the standpoint we can pronounce judgment upon another’s actions, because we are only applying what is written by the inspired writers.
The main reason James gives for why a Christian cannot speak in such a critical way along with a condemning judgment is because “there is only one Lawgiver and judge;” the same person “who is able to save and to destroy.” James is implying we are neither, by asking, “Who are you who judge your neighbor?” Another human being’s speech or judgment will not send one to hell and likewise they cannot grant one heaven.
It should not be concluded that we cannot disagree with one another’s opinion. We can. Nor should we conclude we cannot think someone’s thoughts, actions and ideas are wrong. We can. We should conclude that when we speak and pass judgment we must do so in a manner as to not harm a person’s reputation. We cannot be in the “attack” mode.
It is very common for people to think that nothing can be said negatively about anyone. If that were true, then we could never disagree with someone. This type of thinking leads us to the conclusion that everything is right and nothing is wrong, regardless of what is said, done or thought.
While there can be agreement that everyone is entitled to their opinion, it must be equally agreed upon that a person’s opinion does not have to be accepted by everyone. We can decide to disagree or to speak against another’s opinion, but it must be done out of love to help and not out of a desire to hurt.
Christians must remember we are not the lawgiver nor the judge. Like everyone else, we are accountable to God’s laws. We must remember it is His judgment that either saves or destroys. Remembering we are neither the lawgiver nor the judge will help us to be living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, July 1, 2024
Article #25: Humble Yourself and God Will Exalt You
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
James describes the attitude and actions of those who will humble themselves before God. He says God will exalt or reward those who humble themselves (James 4:8b-10).
In a spiritual sense, James is telling them to “cleanse your hands … purify your hearts.” He is talking to “sinners and double-minded” people. “Sinners” are those who are “devoted to sin.” They are “pre-eminently sinful,” living a lifestyle that is contrary to how God wants them to live.
“Double-minded” people waver in their faith. They are uncertain, having doubts about God’s message. They are divided when it comes to living their life. They desire to be a Christian, but they also want to be a “friend of the world.”
James tells those people to “be miserable and mourn and weep; let your laughter be turned into mourning and your joy to gloom.” James describes the inward emotions a person is to have when they realize they have not humbled themselves before God; when they realized they have violated God’s instructions and commands. They should not be taking lightly their disobedient behavior or making this type of lifestyle a joke. They need to take seriously their misbehavior before God and be mournful and not joyous.
James is not saying Christians should be “miserable” and full of “gloom,” but rather he is talking about our attitude when we realize we have violated God’s instructions and commands. We should feel badly when we become fully aware that we have sinned against God and have not been obedient to Him.
James does not close this section without giving us motivation for humbling ourselves. He says if we will “humble [ourselves] in the presence of the Lord,” then God “will exalt you.”
When we are willing to assign to ourselves a “lower rank” than God; a position of submission; to have a proper understanding of ourselves in comparison to God, then God will exalt us. The amazing part about this statement is if we will “submit” to God, then God will hold us “in very high regard.” God will “speak highly” of us. God will give us a “dignified” position. Our focus should be on what God will do for us when we are willing to humble ourselves in His presence.
God knew we would want to be recognized for our submission to Him. He understood we needed to be motivated to submit to Him, a submission out of love, respect and fear of Him and not that God was coercing us into submission.
When sinners and double-minded people willingly submit to God, then they will become Christians. They will be exalted by God because they are living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, June 24, 2024
Article #24: Submit, Resist and Draw Near
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
In proverb-like fashion, James gives a series of commands to help people be humble before God and not be friends with the world. These short statements give instructions as to what a person can do to no longer be “proud,” but to be “humble” (James 4:7, 8a).
It is interesting that James did not finish his discussion of the subject of a person’s attitude towards God without giving these statements as to how to correct an improper attitude. He says, “Submit therefore to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.”
As we consider these statements and compare them with what James previously said, we find opposites. “God is opposed to the proud” compared with “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” Also, “Submit to God” compared with “Resist the devil.” James seems to be saying that these actions are mutually exclusive. We cannot do both at the same time.
When we “resist the devil,” the only option is to “submit to God,” to “draw near to God.” We may think we can just “resist the devil” and everything be okay. However, James says that is incorrect. We must not only set ourselves against the devil, or withstand what the devil wants us to do, but we must willingly place ourselves under the will of God and comply with what He wants us to do.
James gives a word of motivation to us when he says, “Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” The devil will avoid us for a period of time. But we are no different than Jesus when the devil left Him. The devil was always looking for an opportune time to tempt Jesus, and he will do the same with us.
The idea of “draw[ing] near to God” can be expressed as joining ourselves with God. We want to have similar thoughts as God. We want to become acquainted with God in a very close way. We want to be around Him as much as possible.
While God wants us to be “near” Him, James indicates we must initiate the action. We must “draw near to God” before He will “draw near” to us. While God is anxiously waiting for us to “draw near” to Him, He is still waiting.
Christians have already initiated the “draw[ing] near.” Christians can have the confidence that God has “draw[n] near” to them. Christians must constantly be “resist[ing] the devil” and continually “draw[ing] near to God.” This submitting, resisting and drawing near will be evident in the lives of those who are daily living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, June 17, 2024
Article #23: The Purpose of Scripture
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
James, in continuing his discussion about the wisdom that is from above, states in a negative way the purpose of Scripture (James 4:5, 6). He asks the question, “Do you think that the Scripture speaks to no purpose?” The answer is “No, there is a purpose for Scripture.”
We might think there is no purpose for Scripture because we do not see Scripture’s value for our life. We see no relevance between Scripture and our life. We might think, “Why should I concern myself with an antiquated writing?”
However, there is great value to reading, meditating upon, studying, and applying to our lives the word of God. It gives us insight as to how to live in this world and truly be happy. Consider the many proverbs written by Solomon. Consider the Psalms that teach us how to be thankful for things in this world and how to express those thoughts of gratitude to God.
When we read all the Old Testament stories of how God dealt with people, we must be impressed with two things. One is the length of time God works with a group of people to get them to change their lifestyle so it is in conformity with His way of living and His standards. The second thing is how devastating the destruction is when God punishes people for not repenting of their evil ways.
We often miss the love of God that is expressed in these Old Testament stories. God desires to impress upon us His patience with people, but also the certainty of His word when He speaks of the punishment to come to a nation or group of people. He wants us to have the hope of eternal life along with the focus to not crave the evil things in this world.
To prove his point, James possibly combines several Old Testament passages to stress how “God is opposed to the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” To the proud, those in opposition to God, He will “go to battle” against them, He will resist them. To the humble, those who submit to God, He will do good things aimed at helping these individuals in life.
Scripture is full of examples of God dealing with those who both resist and submit to Him. Scripture is not useless, nor has no purpose, and certainly is not something that is full of vanity. On the contrary, Scripture has the purpose of informing us of the nature of God, giving us reasons to submit to Him and the reward for our obedience to and trust in His word. The purpose of Scripture is to help us to be living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, June 10, 2024
Article #22: The Christian’s Relationship to the World
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
As part of the effort of James to help Christians be living by God’s wisdom, he speaks to them about their relationship to the world. He uses some bold and harsh words to describe the relationship the Christian is to have with the world (James 4:4).
By using the word “world” in this context, James is not speaking of what God created, because God said in Genesis that it was good. Neither is James speaking of the human beings in the world, because again God said it was good. James is talking about the ethos of a society, the beliefs and aspirations practiced by a group of people. He is talking about their lifestyle and the philosophy of living their life.
The first harsh word James uses is “adulteress.” This is a word commonly used in the Old Testament to describe God’s people when they reverted back to idolatry. God considered Israel His bride, just like the church is the bride of Christ. Israel was no longer faithful to God, because they had turned to the “foreign gods.”
When Christians have a “friendship with the world,” James says they are hostile “toward God.” They have a “fondness” for the way the world lives and their mindset in living their lives. Such behavior shows a lack of “fondness” for God. It is in opposition to God.
When James uses the word “hostility” we might think he uses a harsh word. However, James is wanting to make sure the reader understands the severity of the situation. He wants us to know that if we are friends with the world, then we are in strong opposition to God.
“Whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of G0d,” James says. Indeed, very strong language. By using the word “enemy” of God, James is saying a person is opposing the very mind of God. It is a deep-seated dislike for the things of God. Some would even say it is a hatred for God.
James is telling his readers we must have a love for God. We must embrace God’s way of thinking and His practices. We cannot be an enemy of God, we must be a “friend” of God. We must have a fondness for Him.
James is making it very clear that God and the world are in opposition to each other when it comes to the philosophy of life and the way life is lived. As Christians, we cannot have a relationship with the world if we are going to have a relationship with God. Only by having a genuine friendship with God will a Christian be living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, June 3, 2024
Article #21: Source of Quarrels and Conflicts
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
Why do good friends have heated arguments over trivial issues? Why do Christians express their disagreements using strong, loud verbal language? Why do these quarrels and conflicts sometimes escalate to someone being harmed? James explains the source for this worldly behavior (James 4:1-3).
The difference between quarrels and conflicts is the degree of the disagreement. Quarrels usually are short-term in duration (a few minutes) and are over trivial matters. Conflicts usually are much longer in duration (days, months or years) and involve “more serious” matters.
Quarrels usually involve words to resolve the disagreement while conflicts usually intensify to exerting physical force. In either case, relationships may be temporarily strained or permanently severed.
James asks, “What is the source (the origin) of quarrels and conflicts among you?” What is the cause for such altercations and dissensions? He says it is “your pleasures,” your “lust” or you are “envious.”
These three terms have one thing in common. It is all about what I want. It is something that I want that brings me pleasure. It is something that I have a strong desire for. It is something that another person has and I want that thing.
When we are placing our own “wants” above our relationship with other people, especially fellow Christians, then quarrels and conflicts are inevitable. James says it could possibly result in “murder” because “we want our way!” While this may be extreme, James is nonetheless pointing out a possibility. Even if murder is not committed, there may be fights which break out between the disagreeing parties.
James is making the point that such behavior is the practice of “worldly wisdom” and not the wisdom that “comes down from above.” It is not the behavior God wants His people to be displaying.
When we evaluate the attitude of a person who would “quarrel” or “have a conflict” over “trivial earthly matters,” we can see that their major focus is to satisfy themselves. They are placing their “wants” before the other person. It is the choosing of life’s pleasures over godly living. James says when we are asking for these types of things, our prayers will not be answered because they are “with [the] wrong motive.”
The Christian is not prohibited from asking God for things which will bring about pleasure in this world, but rather the Christian is prohibited from asking for things which are motivated by evil intentions.
God wants His followers to be concerned about the other person and not what will bring pleasure to oneself if it is going to cause a quarrel or a conflict. Putting the desires and wants of others before ourselves demonstrates we are living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, May 27, 2024
Article #20: Gentleness When Practicing Wisdom
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
Everyone wants to be considered as wise and having understanding; to be one who has wisdom. Along with defining two types of wisdom, James instructs his readers to practice with gentleness the wisdom that “comes down from above” (James 1:13-18).
The concept of being gentle has to do with being “mild-mannered.” It is not the idea that one cannot be firm in their convictions or their faith; it is not a sign of weakness. Whether one is born with this disposition or it is learned, James encourages his readers to exhibit gentleness.
James wants his readers to have the wisdom that “comes down from above” and not the wisdom that “is earthly, natural, demonic.” James uses several words and phrases to illustrate the contrast. The basic idea is that the wisdom of this world brings about conflict while the wisdom which “comes down from above” brings about peace.
The world’s wisdom brings about “jealousy,” strife, “disorder and every evil thing.” James says a person with this type of wisdom will be exhibiting “selfish ambition.” James is not saying we cannot have a “strong desire to do or achieve something” through hard work, rather he is talking about when we are seeking to better ourselves at the expense of others. It is the idea of elevating oneself above another for the purpose of some type of gain.
If the wisdom James is discussing is related to teachers, then James is telling those who desire to be teachers how they are to impart their knowledge. While the teacher may want to share his knowledge with others, he should not have the attitude that his knowledge makes him better than the other person. This attitude of the elevation of oneself, James says, will not be present in the teacher who practices wisdom that “comes down from above.”
However, this message is not limited to those in a position of being a teacher. It is applicable to everyone in how they are living their daily lives. Consider the words James uses to describe a person’s actions – “pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy.”
When a person possesses these attributes and puts them into practice in their daily lives, they will be exhibiting a lifestyle that will produce righteousness. This type of person will be one who can have a great influence on others when it comes to living a life based upon faith in God and His message.
Gentleness should not be considered a sign of weakness in character or faith, but rather a sign of great strength. When exercising the wisdom that “comes down from above;” a person is living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, May 20, 2024
Article #19: Small Tongue Creates Large Fire
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
Continuing his discussion on the use of the tongue as the representation of our speech, James compares the words we speak as a fire that can create considerable damage. He speaks of “how great a forest” can be set “aflame by such a small fire” (James 3:5b-12).
We have all heard reports of “forest fires” in various locations. We may have even witnessed one. We know how fires can spread because of a small ember floating from one area to another. As the old saying goes, “It only takes one spark!”
James emphasizes how powerful our tongue is, especially when it comes to speaking destructive words. He cautions that such a small member of our body can create extraordinary damage.
Examine the words and phrases James uses to describe the consequences of the improper use of our tongue. It is “the very world of iniquity,” it “defiles the whole body,” and “sets on fire the course of our life.” When we use our tongue improperly we can cause inordinate damage, some of which could last a lifetime.
James points out that mankind can control various types of animals, but we cannot “tame the tongue.” A “tame” animal is trained to be less dangerous, less powerful, to be “under the control” of their trainer. However, when it comes to the tongue, James warns, “no one can tame the tongue.”
James says the tongue is used to “bless” and to “curse” at the same time. With our speech, we can “bless our Lord and Father” and then in the next moment we can “curse men.” James declares this “ought not to be in this way.” Comparing the tongue to a fountain, he says one fountain cannot bring forth water that is “both fresh and bitter.” Using an example from agriculture, he states figs will not produce olives, nor a “vine produce figs.” The point is that Christians should not be using their language in an improper, destructive manner.
Note James is not saying it is impossible to control the tongue, but he is saying it is very hard. As Christians, we must work diligently if we are going to tame our tongue and bring it under control. It will take considerable work and effort.
We do not need to use our tongue in such a way that it would be similar to setting a forest on fire. We need to be constantly monitoring what we say, how we say it and when we say it, if we say it at all. Christians must demonstrate to the world the effort to control our tongue, especially if we are going to influence the world to be living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, May 13, 2024
Article #18: Tongue, Bit and Rudder
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
What does a person’s tongue, a horse’s bit and a ship’s rudder have in common? Though small in size, they exert a great deal of control. James makes the point that we control horses using a bit and we steer a ship using a rudder, but we have a hard time controlling our tongue (James 3:2-5).
The idea that a person, who is smaller than a horse in both body size and strength, can control a large animal with simply a small instrument in the horse’s mouth should amaze us. The point James is making with this illustration is that we can control a horse but we cannot control our tongue?
James also uses the example of a ship being controlled by the use of some small piece of material attached to the watercraft by hinges. The point James wants his readers to focus on is that we can control that small organ which is in our mouth attached by a small piece of tissue.
As we can conclude from the context, James is not specifically talking about the muscular organ in our mouth, but rather our speech; the words we say. By using these examples, James is illustrating that we can and must “control [our] tongue.” In some later verses James will talk about how the tongue can be used, but the point of these verses is the control we must exercise over how we verbally communicate with others.
James makes a spiritual connection. He begins verse 2 by saying, “we all stumble in many ways.” He ends this same verse by saying that the man who can control his tongue “is a perfect man.” But he also says that a person who can control his tongue is “able to bridle the whole body as well.” Very interesting!
Why would James say if we can control the tongue, then we can “hold in check” or “restrain” or “guide” the whole body? This seems to indicate how hard it is to restrain or hold in check the words that come out of our mouth. While we all recognize that we must “think before we speak,” it is not always practiced to the degree necessary. Often our emotions overtake our self-control. We are reacting rather than being purposeful with our speech.
James says if we can control our tongue then we are “a perfect man.” He is not saying we are flawless, but rather we are mature in our faith. James is saying it is possible. He is saying just like Christians can control horses with a bit and boats with a rudder, Christians must control their tongue if they are going to be living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, May 6, 2024
Article #17: Warning to Bible Teachers
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
Teaching is a wonderful thing. Helping other people learn information or a skill brings great satisfaction. However, James gives a warning to teachers, especially Bible teachers, in James 3:1.
James says, “Let not many of you become teachers, my brethren, knowing that as such we will incur a stricter judgment.” Notice he includes himself, as well as fellow Christians teaching in whatever capacity.
When considering the “stricter judgment,” one may say teachers will be held to a higher standard, and that may well be. In a similar aspect, teachers will be judged “harsher” than the learner simply because the teacher should “know better.”
Teachers have the responsibility to teach what is correct. Their information must be right. Students depend upon teachers to impart trustworthy information.
Bible teachers should recognize the importance of their position as a teacher. People expect them to tell them what God’s word says and how to apply it to their lives. The student’s eternal destiny, to a large extent, is dependent upon what the teacher tells them.
Whether we think of God holding the teacher to a “higher standard” or “there will be a harsher judgment,” the result is the same. Teachers are going to be judged differently from those who are not teachers.
Therefore, James gives the warning for “not many of you [should] become teachers.” Teachers are not just standing before a group of people “leading a discussion.” They are not in front of a crowd to “facilitate a conversation.” They are not “monitors” of a class. They are there to teach, to impart knowledge.
When a person performs the action of “teaching” they are either “showing” someone how to do something or they are “explaining” to someone some information or how to do a skill. The actions of a Bible teacher is to impart the word of God, explain the word of God, and motivate the student to take action based upon the information found in the Bible. Besides Jesus, Paul is a great example of a fantastic Bible teacher. Luke summarizes how Paul taught the Thessalonians when he said Paul “reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and giving evidence” (Acts 17:2, 3). The results of Paul’s teaching in Thessalonica was that “some of them were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas” (Acts 17:4).
Bible teachers should take their responsibilities seriously when they get the opportunity to teach. They need to use their Bibles as the text, reason with their students, give them explanations and evidence, and be persuasive when it comes to motivating their students to act upon what they have been taught. The goal of the teacher is to help people to be living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, April 29, 2024
Article #16: Rahab’s Faith Was Not Dead
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
In his discussion about our faith, James gives another example (James 2:25, 26) from the Old Testament. Rahab and her story is recorded in Joshua 2. Rahab was not a descendent of Abraham, but she had faith in the same god as Abraham. She is a perfect example of having a faith that is not dead.
When a person has a faith that is dead, James says, it is “without works.” James uses Rahab to illustrate how a person’s faith must be “alive;” it must be filled with works, if they are going to be “justified.”
A harlot would not be considered a religious person. However, Rahab had faith in God. She had seen and heard what God did to the nations around Jericho. When she heard God was going to destroy her city, she believed what she heard and took action to escape being destroyed with the rest of the people in the city.
Rahab’s faith was based upon several things. She had heard God dried “up the waters of the Red Sea.” She had heard God “utterly destroyed” the “two kings of the Amorites who were beyond the Jordan” (Joshua 2:10). These reports convinced her that God would destroy Jericho.
She made a deal with the two Hebrew spies sent to Jericho by Joshua (2:12, 13). Notice the conditions the spies put upon Rahab if she was going to be saved from the destruction (Joshua 2:14; also 2:17-20). Later in the book of Joshua we read that Rahab did exactly as instructed. She and her family were saved from the destruction of Jericho (Joshua 6:22-25).
Within this story there seems to be a pattern for avoiding having a faith that is dead. It begins by hearing about what God has done to show His power. The second step is to evaluate this information and make a decision that one will put their trust in this information. The third step is to do the things God has said for a person to do regarding forgiveness, how they are to worship God, and how they are to live their daily lives. Without doing all of these steps, James would conclude a person has a dead faith. Their faith is not like that of Rahab.
Rahab is only one of many examples in the Old Testament that tell of people who showed their faith in God. She, like others, were people who were “working” to show their faith was alive and not dead.
If people today are going to be justified, then they must show their faith like Rahab did. A person’s faith is seen by the “works” they do as they are living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, April 22, 2024
Article #15: Showing Our Faith
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
James states a two part principle defining how a person will know if another person has faith. He basically says faith can only be shown by the works that are done. Abraham sacrificing his son is given as an example (James 2:18-24).
James instructs his readers that “faith, if it has no works, is dead.” He makes the point that a person must demonstrate their faith by their actions. So, in this opening sentence of this new paragraph, he says, “show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works.”
It is easy for one to say they have faith in God, but the real proof is seen in their actions. The demons talk about having faith in God, but they do not do what is necessary to show their faith. Their lack of action relating to their faith, drives James to conclude, “Faith without works is useless.”
James uses Abraham as one who demonstrated their faith by their actions. Abraham offering up his son Isaac on the altar (cf. Genesis 22) is a great example of a faith that is “perfected;” thereby bringing Abraham’s faith to completeness.
Abraham demonstrated to God the degree of “faith” he had in God. While God did not need to command Abraham to offer his son to know the degree of faith Abraham had in God, this action demonstrated to everyone on this earth the faith of Abraham. This example, as used by James, helps us to see the degree one must go sometimes to “show their faith.”
While this example is very extreme, Christians today need to see the extent they may have to go in order to “show their faith.” They may be placed in some very challenging situation where their faith must be shown.
James records a comment made by God after He saw what Abraham had done. Quoting Scripture, James says “And Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to Him as righteousness.” Then James comments, “You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone.” By having these statements we can see that one is righteous based upon their faith and one is justified based upon their works. The conclusion we must reach is that we are both made righteous and are justified when our faith is seen by our works.
Becoming a Christian is more than just putting one’s faith in Christ; it must be shown. The Christian life is more than just putting one’s faith in Christ; it must be visible to others. God will reward the Christian just like He did Abraham, based upon us showing our faith by living God’s way!
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, April 15, 2024
Article #14: A Faith That Works Saves
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
After talking about the royal law, James is instructing the brethren about their faith. He tells them that the only way their faith will save them is if their faith is producing action, otherwise their “faith” is dead (James 2:14-17).
Beginning his discussion, James asks, “What use is it, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but he has no works?” This question introduces the topic as well as getting the brethren to think about their faith. The conclusion James will reach is if a faith is not producing action, then it is a dead faith; it will not save anyone.
Illustrating his point, James says having a faith that is not producing any works is like telling a fellow believer who “is without clothing and in need of daily food” to “go in peace,” but you do not provide clothing and food. It is like telling your “brother or sister” in Christ, a fellow Christian, to “be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them what is “necessary for their body.”
The faith a Christian is to have is one that is productive. It is a faith that motivates a person to do what they have been taught. This would include how to become a Christian as well as living the Christian life.
Considering the word faith, one of its major components is the idea of trust. If someone has faith in something or someone, then they are willing to put their trust in what that something will do or what that someone will say. They will use the “something.” They will act upon what “someone” has said. True faith produces action.
The same is true with us today. If we really have faith in God and His word, then we are going to do the things He says in His word. We are going to put it into action.
Consulting a standard dictionary, one finds that the word “faith” is a noun; it is not a verb. In this circumstance “faith” is something we possess. It is obtained by hearing God’s message and deciding to put our trust in this message. (Romans 10:17).
After making the decision to put our “faith” in the message of God, then we are going to do our best to follow the instructions and commands contained in God’s message. There will be nothing in our thoughts and attitude that says, “I don’t have to do that!”
When a Christian has the faith James is talking about, it will be a faith that is demonstrated by their actions. Everyone who observes the life and actions of this Christian will have no doubt they are living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, April 8, 2024
Article #13: Practicing the Royal Law
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
Quoting from Scripture, James defines the “royal law” as “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” How important is practicing the royal law? Very important! James says not practicing the royal law is a sin just like committing adultery and murder (James 2:8-13).
James says when we practice the “royal law” we are “doing well.” However, if we exhibit favoritism when it comes to practicing this law of God, James says we are “committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors.”
To magnify this concept, James says, “For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles in one point, he has become guilty of all.” In our minds, this may come across as being very harsh. How could committing this one sin make us equal with an adulterer or a murderer? We think they are “horrible” people. We might think, “Surely, God would not think I am that horrible if I do not practice the royal law.”
The point James is making is that “one sin” makes us a “transgressor.” To God, it does not matter what the sin is. By committing any sin, just one sin, we have gone outside the bounds of God law; we are separated from God. The result is the same as if we had broken every commandment of God.
To correct this status with God, James says Christians must “so speak and so act as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty.” This is the same “law of liberty” James spoke of earlier when talking about looking at ourselves in a mirror and James saying we must not be “forgetful hearer[s] but effectual doers” of the word.
James reminds the Christian a judgment day is coming. He says those who are “merciless” to their neighbors in this life, will be “shown no mercy.” If the Christian wants God to show him mercy at the judgment day, then today while living on this earth, they must love their neighbor.
James says just like we love ourselves, we must in the same manner love our neighbors. The vast majority of people “love” themselves extremely. They will do whatever is necessary for themselves regardless of what they must go through. This same type of behavior must be exhibited by Christians to both their fellow Christians and their unbelieving neighbors.
When it comes to loving our neighbor, it should be done without “personal favoritism.” The Christian should have no regard for the social status of their neighbor, their profession, or their economic status. The Christian is to love their neighbor regardless of the circumstances. In doing this they will be practicing the royal law and living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, April 1, 2024
Article #12: No Distinctions Based Upon Clothing
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
The clothes we wear speak volumes. They may point to an organization to which we belong, the type of work we do, or our bank balance. When it comes to the worship service, James says there should be no distinction based upon clothing (James 2:1-4).
James is giving a warning about our “attitude of personal favoritism” because of the clothes a fellow Christian wears to church. This type of judging with partiality demonstrates an unfair preferential treatment of the “poor man.”
Many people use this passage to justify allowing others to wear whatever clothing they choose to a worship service. However, that is not the point James is making with this instruction. James is teaching there should be no distinction in awarding seats of honor in the worship service based upon a person’s wealth.
James explains to the “brethren” that their judgment of a person should not be based upon the price of their clothes. The Christian is to disregard the “gold ring and … fine clothes” as well as the “dirty clothes” when they are deciding the person to sit at a place of honor.
Making a spiritual decision based upon a person’s clothes is not a “fair judgment.” A person’s wealth (or their job) is not to be considered when evaluating the honor they are to have among brethren.
Likewise, this does not give a person the license to wear just anything when they come to worship. They must remember they have come to worship God. They must remember that God will execute righteous judgment upon them when it comes to the attire they wear when they come to worship Him.
People make judgments every day based upon someone’s clothing. A person decides on the appropriateness of the outfit to the occasion. However, when it comes to deciding the honor one will have at a church service, the monetary value of one’s clothing should not be considered, but rather the individual’s spiritual character.
While a person might not be able to afford a “gold ring” to wear to church, they need to consider the attire they are wearing to church making sure it conveys the idea that they have come to worship God. If the best they can do is wear “dirty clothes,” then the other members must honor them because they recognize their heart’s intentions.
Making correct judgments about people is something God expects the Christian to do. When greeting people coming into our church services, let us have a “blind eye” to the clothes they are wearing. Let us honor the poor and the rich equally making no distinction between the two. Our impartiality will demonstrate we are living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, March 25, 2024
Article #11: Religion Approved by God
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
One of the most horrifying realities is to think our religion is approved by God when it is not. James identifies to Christians the type of religion that is approved by God. He says it is bridling our tongue, providing care for the most destitute of people, and “to keep [ourselves] unstained by the world” (James 1:26, 27).
Wanting to appear religious, if we cannot control our speech then James says our “religion is worthless.” We may think we are practicing godly behavior, but in reality we are deceiving our “own heart.” The horrible part about being deceived is that we do not know we have been deceived.
The term “bridle,” brings to mind the idea “to restrain.” The thought of controlling an animal like a horse with only a small object in its mouth is amazing. The lesson to be learned is our speech, which can be very powerful in both a good and bad way, can be controlled. Our mind must “hold the reins” on our tongue.
As James continues his writing about having a religion approved by God, he uses the word “pure” indicating something is clean, free from corruption or sin; it is not false. He also uses the word “undefiled,” which is a unique way of saying a man’s religion is untainted, uncorrupted. James seems to be using these two words, which are very similar in meaning, to stress the type of religion we are to practice.
By highlighting the “orphans,” James is drawing attention to how a Christians should be willing to take care of some of the most helpless and vulnerable in our society. Children who have no parents, going from family to family, are often lacking in security and self-esteem. Providing for their true necessities, displays a God like compassion.
The woman who has lost her husband is in a similar position. Being married provides a certain level of security. While many will be able to “take care of themselves,” there is also the comfort they miss when their husband is no longer living.
The last thing James mentions is one must keep themselves “unstained by the world.” The Christian cannot let the ungodly behavior practiced by “the world,” influence them. We must be diligent to keep our bodies clean from allowing sin to be part of our daily life.
After informing Christians to have the word implanted and to be doers of the word, James mentions three different aspects of practicing a religion approved by God. We must guard against deceiving ourselves concerning our religion. Exercising self-control over our tongues, helping the helpless and monitoring our own behavior is essential as we are daily living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, March 18, 2024
Article #10: God Blesses Doers
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
Society admires and rewards people who are doers; the achievers get the reward. James discusses the need to be more than a “hearer of the word” implanted, they must “prove [themselves] doers of the word” (James 1:22-25).
By using the word “prove,” James is wanting his readers to demonstrate by their actions that they have “the word” implanted in their hearts. The evidence the word is “implanted” is indicated by how a person will daily live their life.
To illustrate this concept, James uses an example of a person looking at themself in a mirror, seeing something that needs to be changed, and walking away making no changes in their life. They have no resolve to make changes. They were not looking “intently at the perfect law,” with the attitude that they will “abide by it.”
By using the word “intently,” James is expressing the idea of giving eager attention to the word of God. The idea is more than just a casual glance at a biblical passage or a look “in passing” of some biblical verse. While a “casual reading” of the Bible has some value, there needs to be time in our life when there is a concentration on the word of God with the goal of first understanding what the text says and then how we can put our reading into practice in our life.
Reading the Bible with no intentions of making application to our life is like walking by a mirror, seeing we have chocolate on our face, and just leaving it there. People may tell us we have chocolate on our face, but we still do not do anything about it. While we might think this is ridiculous and that no one would do such a silly thing, there are countless people who think it is a good idea to read their Bible on a daily basis, but have no plan of putting it into practice in their daily life.
Group studies are a great way to obtain biblical knowledge, but if the objective is to only “know” what the text says, then this passage in James is not being applied. Whether it be a Bible class at church or a study in someone’s home or a gathering at some business in town, if the goal is not to learn something that you can put into practice in your life, then the session is only academic and social in nature.
If a person wants to be blessed by God, then they must not “become a forgetful hearer, but an effectual doer” of the word. God will bless Christians who are effectually doing “the word” because they are daily living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, March 11, 2024
Article #9: Implanting “the Word” Changes Lifestyle
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
After making his comments concerning controlling our anger, James makes a proverbial statement about one’s lifestyle displaying the righteousness of God. He states that for someone to save their soul they must put aside one lifestyle and receive with humility the word of God (James 1:21).
James is reminding his “beloved brethren” that a person must be willing to give up (or put away) their lifestyle of “filthiness” and “wickedness” and be willing to submit to “the word” of God and thereby change their lifestyle. This verse serves as a reminder to all Christians that they must continue to put aside evil behavior and to always receive God’s message if they want to be saved.
The “filthiness” James mentions has to do with “moral defilement;” it is making “dirty” the principles of righteous living. The word “wickedness” means having the attitude of doing wrong behavior without displaying any sorrow for such actions. These two words describe a person who has absolutely no regard for the lifestyle God would want them to be living.
The opposite behavior, the one James is promoting, is the one that is receiving God’s message with “humility.” It means the person has an attitude of submitting to this message of God, thus making it their own. They are going to embrace living the lifestyle taught by God.
The reason “the word” will save their souls is because it is “implanted;” it is established or firmly fixed in their mind. God’s lifestyle has become the lifestyle of the Christian; the way they live their everyday life. It is who they are.
The major objective of every person should be to save their soul. This can only be accomplished by living the lifestyle taught in “the word” of God. This message of God will cause them to quit living one lifestyle and motivate them to live another lifestyle. Focusing on God’s instructions and embedding them in one’s mind is essential to changing one’s lifestyle.
A person must exert immense effort to have this “word” lodged in their mind if it is going to be a continuous guide for their lifestyle. One must be determined to change their thinking if they want to change their lifestyle. It is not impossible, but it will require work.
This proverbial statement by James can give us the assurance that our souls can be saved. Humbling ourselves by submitting to God’s word and implanting it in our minds will give us the information and the motivation to change our lifestyle. Putting aside a lifestyle of “filthiness” and “wickedness” and practicing a lifestyle based upon “the word” implanted in our mind will demonstrate we are daily living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, March 4, 2024
Article #8: God’s Wisdom for Controlling Our Anger
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
Most people can control their anger, but every now and then we lose control of our temper. James informs us of God’s wisdom when it comes to how we can control our anger (James 1:19, 20).
James says we need to be “quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger.” When we are able to do this, he says we will “achieve the righteousness of God.” While these are three simple things we can do to control our anger, they are very hard to practice at times.
Frequently we are doing just the opposite. We are not willing to listen to other people. We want to be fast to say something without really considering all the circumstances. And, as a result we are very prompt to speak whatever comes to our mind, which usually is not the most prudent, kind or compassionate thing to say. So, if Christians want to reach a type of behavior that will be associated with God’s righteousness, then they must do these three things.
The word “quick” has the meaning of being prompt or swift. To be “quick to hear” would indicate that we not only want to hear the audible sound waves going across our eardrum, but also we have the desire to give consideration and seek to understand what we are being told.
The phrase “slow to speak” indicates that one is going to take some time before they are going to utter some sound from their mouth. It would also indicate that a person is delaying in using words to express one’s mind or one’s thought. Often times, this will greatly reduce the anger a person has with a situation, circumstance or a person.
The word “slow” in the phrase “slow to anger” has the same meaning as used in the phrase “slow to speak.” The word “anger” is that strong feeling of displeasure or hostility we may have toward a situation, circumstance or person. So being “slow to anger” would have the idea of not expressing that feeling and over time there would be less and less things causing us to have those feelings of displeasure and hostility.
James says when we are able to do these things we will “achieve the righteousness of God.” This means that we will be reacting to situations, circumstances and people in the way that God would be reacting.
While controlling our anger can at times be very difficult, it nonetheless is something that can be accomplished. It is not impossible. The determining factor will be how strong our desire is to be using God’s wisdom in this aspect of our efforts to be living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, February 26, 2024
Article #7: God’s Goodness is Unchanging
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
In an effort to reassure the Christians in his day, as well as our day, James wants his “beloved brethren” to know that the goodness of God does not change. James is warning his readers about being deceived by some who would promote the idea that God will sometimes bring about evil things. He makes his case by using three attributes of God (James 1:16-18).
By using the words of endearment, “my beloved brethren,” James is connecting with them as a fellow believer in Jesus. He wants them to understand and have the confidence that “every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above.” To emphasize his point he says these good gifts and perfect things come “down from the Father of lights.”
James points out that this “Father of lights” does not change by using the two phrases “no variation or shifting shadow.” God is not fickle when it comes to His actions. God is always going to do what is good and especially for His people.
Another proof James uses to point out God’s goodness is how God brought about “His will.” James says this will was brought about by “the word of truth.” He goes on to say that as Christians if we follow this “word of truth,” we will be “a kind of first fruits among His creatures.”
As we consider the unchangeableness of God, it should give us great confidence that He wants to help us in all of our situations in life. We should feel like we can rely upon God in all of our circumstances and especially the more difficult ones. We should have the firm trust that God is going to be there regardless of what happens to us in life.
Regardless of whether we are faced with persecution because we are a Christian or we are tempted by our own lust, followers of Jesus should not be deceived by those who would cause us to doubt God being with us at all times. God is not a “light” that will cause a “shadow,” but rather is a “light” that does not vary. The Christian’s conclusion should be God is unchanging.
In dealing with the various trials of life, Christians should ask for God’s wisdom as to how they should handle them. They should recognize that they sin when they allow their own lusts to go unchecked. However, the most important thing they must conclude is that God gives only good things and not evil things.
Christians who constantly remember that this characteristic of God as being unchangeable will have the assurance, confidence and the feeling of certainty that they can daily be living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, February 19, 2024
Article #6: God Cannot Be Tempted
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
James has been writing to Christians about being tested. One type of testing will produce endurance and life, while another type of testing will produce sin and destruction. James wants to make sure Christians know that God does not tempt us to do evil, because God cannot be tempted (James 1:13-15).
It would be a logical conclusion to think that if God tested people to see if we would endure various trials, that He would also tempt us to do evil. James wants to eliminate this thought by making two points, one from the negative and one from the positive side of the issue.
He begins by pointing out that “God cannot be tempted by evil.” God will not violate His own laws and standards. It is part of His character to follow His own code of conduct. Because of this attribute, God “Himself does not tempt anyone.” God practices the Golden Rule.
The cause of our being tempted to do evil is a result of our “own lust.” God is not the source of this temptation, but rather we are the source. Even though God would not want us to sin, He has left it to our own decision.
Our faith is tested when we are “enticed by [our] own lust” to do what is evil. This trial has a malicious intent, namely to lure us away from God in the same manner a fisherman would lure a fish and coax it out of its safe zone.
Using a metaphor of the growth of a child, James describes how lust conceives the thought of violating God’s law, how this lust will continue until it “gives birth to sin” and how this lust, if not brought under control, will destroy a person in death. While this is very graphic, it personalizes the process in a way that we can relate. James wants us to fully understand that our lust is the cause of this type of testing, since God does not tempt anyone to do evil.
As we look at how to apply this passage to our own life, we need to avoid allowing our lust to conceive in the first place. If we control our lust in the beginning, then it will not develop and ultimately destroy us, both in this life and the life after this one.
Christians need to have the fullest of assurance that because God Himself cannot be tempted to do evil, He is not going to tempt us to do evil. Christians must constantly be on guard to not be lured into doing evil, but rather reject the enticement because we want the security that comes from living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, February 12, 2024
Article #5: Receiving the Crown is a Motivation
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
An important characteristic of the Christian is the ability to persevere when faced with various trials. As a motivation for holding fast to one’s faith in Christ, God has promised to “those who love Him” a “crown of life” (James 1:12).
Constant attacks on one’s faith can be discouraging. Pressure to give up on the Christian walk could come because of our economic and social status. However, James wants to reassure his readers that if we will endure to the end, we will be rewarded. We will receive the crown of life.
As a result of asking for and receiving God’s wisdom in dealing with various trials, Christians can apply God’s wisdom to help us endure to the end and receive the victor’s wreath. Although the journey may be long, the faithful can arrive at our destination if we will keep our eye on receiving the crown. Written like a proverb, this statement summarizes what has been said and as an introduction to what will be said about the consequences of not overcoming the temptations to do evil.
The lesson to be learned from this verse is for the Christian to receive the “crown of life,” we must not only be willing, but actually must continue in our efforts regardless of the difficulties or oppositions we may face. We must look at it as a continuous, day to day effort and not a one-time achievement.
Generally speaking, we must be motivated by some prize or goal if we are going to remain firm in our belief, determination and adherence to a cause or idea. This is especially true when it comes to the teachings and application of the teachings of Jesus.
Since God made us, He knows what will motivate us to be faithful to Him. He knew that we needed the prize as a motivation.
While some would say, and they would be correct, that we should be faithful to God because we “love Him,” God knows that cannot be the only driving force. God knows Christians need a reason to be roused to action.
The “crown of life” is a figure of speech indicating the Christian will be in heaven with God. In order for this motivation to be effective, this “crown of life” must become real to us. The desire for it will inspire us to be faithful to God the remaining days of our life.
As Christians, we must have the fullest of confidence that God will give us this promised “crown of life.” By constantly putting forth the effort to persevere and maintaining a constant eye on this “crown,” we will be motivated to be daily living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, February 5, 2024
Article #4: Flowers and Riches Fade Away
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
Churches are made up of rich and poor people. James says the poor Christian needs to have pride in their “high position.” The rich Christian needs to be humble because his riches, just like the flower, will “fade away.” (James 1:9-11).
Usually we think that a Christian should not have pride in their life, but rather be humble. However, James is telling the poor Christian they need to take pleasure in the recognition that they have a “high position,” because they are a Christian.
On the other hand, James is telling the “rich man to glory in his humiliation, because like flowering grass he will pass away.” The accumulation of many possessions will not prevent him from dying nor insure he will live eternally.
Throughout history, and in our modern world, mankind has equated wealth with being pleasing to God. Likewise, poverty has been associated with not pleasing God. James is stating that possessions are only temporary and are not an indication of one’s eternal destiny.
For the Christian who is struggling in life with finances, this would be a great comfort. To know that one’s eternal destiny, one’s existence with God after this life is over, is not dependent upon their wealth would be something in which they could “take great pride.” This would truly be amazing because in this world they do not have this “great pride.”
For the Christian who is not struggling in life with finances, but living in comfort, they need to realize they need to humble themselves. They need to rely upon God for their eternal destiny and not their many possessions. They must constantly remember that riches are only temporary and one day they will all “fade away.”
To drive his point home, James uses flowers and the grass of the field as examples. The beauty of the flower is “destroyed” when “the sun rises with a scorching wind” and the flower will “fall off.” The grass will “wither.”
The application James wants us to make is that we should remember riches, material wealth and possessions, are only temporary; one day they will “fade away.” This parable should remind us that our focus should not be upon obtaining wealth, but rather upon living with God for eternity.
Regardless of our economic status in society, our life should not be consumed with obtaining riches. Our life should be focused on our “high position;” being a Christian.
Christians should always keep their pursuit of wealth in its proper place by remembering it will one day “fade away.” Keeping the pursuit of the eternal “riches” at the forefront will motivate the Christian to be chasing a lifestyle of living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, January 29, 2024
Article #3: Conditions to Receiving Wisdom
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
One sure way to navigate the trials of this life is to get the wisdom God provides. Wisdom can come from many places and be attained in many ways. However, God’s wisdom comes based upon conditions (James 1:5-8).
One condition to getting wisdom is to simply ask for it. Ironically, a person must possess a certain amount of wisdom, if they are going to ask for it. They must realize they need help with the various difficult situations in life. They must be willing to reach out for that help, especially from God.
James says a person should be asking God for wisdom. God gives wisdom to “all.” No one is excluded if they will simply ask God.
God gives wisdom “generously.” He readily provides it out of the kindness of His heart. He wants to help people as they deal with the various trials in this present world.
God gives wisdom “without reproach.” God does not feel disappointment when He gives wisdom to those who are asking Him for it. He knows the one asking possesses the character He is seeking in a person who belongs to Him while they are dealing with tough situations.
Another condition to getting wisdom relates to a person’s character. They must have faith God will provide the wisdom they are requesting, along with the expectation that God will give them wisdom. To not have this faith and expectation indicates the person has some “doubts” and James calls that person “a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.”
To illustrate a person who is doubting, James describes them as “the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind.” With this picture in our mind, we can see that a doubting person is constantly thinking, “Will God give me wisdom or will He not?” That person is really not expecting God to give them wisdom. They have all kinds of reasons in their mind as to why God will not grant their request.
Trying to live a godly life in this world, we will encounter many difficult times. Whether social, financial, religious, or meeting challenges related to employment or health, God is willing to give us the necessary wisdom to endure all these situations if we will simply ask, without doubting, expecting that He will give us this wisdom.
Regardless of the circumstances, asking for wisdom from God will always help and be the best advice we will receive for how to handle our trials. God will give us the wisdom we need to manage, in a godly manner, all the issues of life. When the Christian practices this wisdom from God, they will always be living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, January 22, 2024
Article #2: When Faith Is Tested
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
The writer of James expresses a truth that is quite hard to comprehend and put into practice. He tells the Christian to “consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials” (James 1:2). The verses following this one give his explanation.
It seems strange that a New Testament writer would say there should be joy when a Christian encounters different trials. However, when we consider what is accomplished by enduring these trials, we will understand why there should be joy.
We should not think that a person needs to feel happy about the difficulties they are facing in life. This is not the meaning of the passage. The meaning is that we should find joy when the trial is over. Also, because of our endurance, our faith is now stronger.
James encourages us to look at the various challenges we are facing because of our faith as something that is beneficial. With each trial we endure, our faith will become more steadfast, more permanent, and more mature.
When, as Christians, we are in the midst of something that challenges our faith, it is very easy to consider giving up; to no longer keep fighting for what we believe. Thoughts enter our mind asking, why am I doing this? Why am I suffering like this for what is taught in the Bible? Why not be like everyone else? Why be different? Is it really worth all this hardship?
James would say, “It is!” He would say that the trial is only temporary, but being in heaven is forever. James encourages us as brethren to focus on getting through the trial, so we can be eternally with Jesus.
James, as the half-brother of Jesus, was once an unbeliever, but over time and after witnessing the miracles Jesus did, the most notable – His resurrection, James became a believer. This may be the driving force behind his exhortation about not giving up. He is focusing on the joy we will have after we have endured the earthly trials and are enjoying the heavenly reward.
Based upon what we know about the physical persecution the early Christians went through, we should be motivated to endure whatever challenges to our faith we may encounter. The present persecutions in our country, whatever they may be, are very minor compared to our brethren’s persecution in the first century.
The joy James is talking about is not excitement and happiness because our faith is challenged, but rather our feelings when the challenge is over. Receiving the reward will truly be a joyous occasion. Entering heaven is the reason why Christians should endure any testing of our faith while we are living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________
Monday, January 15, 2024
Article #1: Brother or Bond-Servant
Click here to listen to an audio version of this article. You can read along with the audio.
In the beginning days of the church, when preachers and teachers were not abundant, letters were written, sometimes to a large audience, to encourage Christians to put into practice their faith. The Epistle of James is such a letter.
The author identifies himself as “James, a bond-servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ” (James 1:1). The early church fathers identified this James as the half-brother of Jesus. They believed he had the same mother as Jesus, Mary, and his father was Joseph, Mary’s husband.
The author identifies himself as “a bond-servant.” While the general idea is that he is a servant, or slave, there is more to the definition. It carries the idea of someone who volunteers or does not take any pay for their services as a slave. The word is used to describe such men as Paul, Peter and Epaphas.
It is very interesting that James does not identify himself as the brother of Jesus. I believe he is down playing the physical relationship and lifting up the spiritual relationship. He seems to be indicating he wanted his readers to focus on him being a “bond-servant” and not the brother of Jesus.
Contemplating this description, we might asked ourselves, “Would we have highlighted the spiritual over the physical?” Would it have been more important to us to be recognized as a servant of Jesus rather than being recognized as the brother of Jesus?
This bond-servant is writing to a large group of Christians who have been “dispersed abroad.” He is not writing to a church in a given city or region, but rather he is writing a letter that would be read in various gatherings of Christians in numerous places.
The purpose of the book is to encourage the Christian to put into practice the things they have been taught regarding living the Christian life. Filled with short statements, along with illustrations and examples, there are multiple thoughts intended to help the Christian to be living the faith.
Maybe the most important thing we can learn from reading, studying and meditating on this short book of the Bible is that being a Christian involves work. There are things which Christians must do if they want to be counted by God as being faithful to Him. James seems to indicate in his book that if one does not practice the things he has included in this book, their faith is dead.
As Christians we should consider it a high honor to be a “bond-servant of God and [our] Lord Jesus Christ.” We should implement these authoritative teachings from James in our lives because we want to be a bond-servant teaching and living God’s way.
We invite you to contact us if you have any questions or would like to learn more about God’s word. – Carlton G. McPeak
___________________________________