As a whole the epistle of James is written with a focus upon the daily character and conduct of believers. It is filled with imperative instructions, exhortations, and even correctives. James, the brother of Jesus (Gal. 1:19), was the leader among the pastoral leadership of the church at Jerusalem. (Acts 12:17; 15:13-21; 21:18; Gal. 1:19; 2:9) Thus as a pastor James originally wrote this epistle under the inspiration of God the Holy Spirit to the Jewish believers who were scattered throughout the empire of Rome. His Holy Spirit inspired purpose was to provide pastoral counsel for a spiritually mature walk in the lives of these believers.
The opening paragraph of this epistle (verses 2-8) moves immediately to the subject of life’s many, various trials, troubles, and tribulations. This contextual situation and setting for the paragraph is established through the closing portion of verse 2 – “When ye fall into divers temp-tations.” Now, in this context the phrase “divers temptations” refers to the many trials of our lives; for these “divers temptations” are described in verse 3 as “the trying of your faith.” Brethren, we all will face many, various trials, troubles, and tribulations in our lives. Concerning this matter, God’s Word does not use the word “if,” but the word “when.” It is not if we might fall into diverse temptations, but when we will fall into diverse temptations. So then, how are we to deal aright with these many, various trials, troubles, and tribulations of our lives?
1. The Instruction for a Joyful Regard
2. The Instruction for a Welcoming Response
3. The Instruction for a Prayerful Request
4. The Instruction for a Trusting Relationship |
