Pastor James, who has called us brethren 15 times, suddenly confronts us as adulteresses. His readers would have recognized such Old Testament language, reminding them of the many passages that compare Israel's relationship to the Lord as a marriage, and her infidelity as adultery.
How do we commit spiritual adultery? By making friends with the world. Such friendship is not defined by man-made rules, but rather by acting according to "worldly" wisdom. The wisdom that James has said is behind the bitter envies, selfish ambitions, wars and fightings and ineffectual and inappropriate prayers that he has just condemned. By engaging in such sins we not only become friends with the world, but enemies of God.
In verse 5 (one of the more difficult passages for many scholars and commentators), James seems to change subjects. But if we stick to translations based on the Textus Receptus, it is clear that the theme of God as a jealous husband is extended and applied.
Finally, he warns against pride – a pride that will prevent us from receiving the grace that he freely gives to the humble.
Featuring a sermon puts it on the front page of the site and is the most effective way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands including all mobile platforms + newsletter.
Text-Featuring a sermon is a less expensive way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands on the right bar with optional newsletter inclusion. As low as $30/day.
Kurt Snow serves as a ruling elder at Covenant Reformed Church of Sacramento (RCUS). He served as a member of the Board of Governors of City Seminary of Sacramento from 2000 to 2020.
