Serving the Lord: The Book of James

One thing people like about the book of James is its practical approach to Christian commitment. The book answers the question, What does it look like to be a servant of the Lord, especially when facing trials of various kinds? Here is down-to-earth application of doctrinal truth that will benefit every believer no matter where they are on their faith journey.

The author identifies himself as James, a servant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ. This is probably Jesus’ younger brother James. He is initially portrayed in Scripture as opposing Jesus’ ministry but by grace became a believer, a leader of the church, and finally a martyr. His self-identity as a willing servant is the same identity all Christians should embrace out of gratitude for salvation in Christ.

Serving the Lord involves loyalty, moral living, mercy toward others, and perseverance. We are to strive for spiritual maturity and be fruitful in producing good works, not to earn salvation but to give evidence of our faith now and at the end times. James encourages us to put our faith into practice even in the face of trials, for trials can serve a redemptive purpose:

“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds,

for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.

And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be

perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”

(James 1:2-4)

Ancient church historians confirm James’ reputation as a righteous and pious man. Hegesippus (2nd century) writes that James was obedient to his life-long Nazirite vow. He developed knees as hard as a camel’s due to long hours in prayer for God’s people and was nicknamed “James the Just” by the apostles due to his passion for honoring God’s law and righteousness.1 Eusebius (4th century) says James was chosen by the apostles to be the first bishop or overseer of the Jerusalem mother church.2

James assumes his readers already know and accept the basic beliefs of the Christian faith. He builds on underlying theological truths such as:

Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior, God Himself.

People were created by God to glorify Him in word and deed.

Salvation from sin is by grace alone, through Christ’s work alone.

Believers are part of the body of Christ, the church.

There will be final judgment when Christ returns at the end times.

The book of James is reminiscent of the Old Testament book of Proverbs and often echoes Jesus’ teachings, particularly the Sermon on the Mount. Both Jesus and James promote the correct practice of faith (orthopraxy), teaching that faith and works are a unity that cannot be separated:

“And everyone who hears these words of mine and does not do them

will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand.”

(Matthew 7:26)

“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”

(James 1:22)

James agrees with Jesus that good intentions are not enough. Neglecting to perform deeds of mercy is as serious an offense to Christ as committing sinful acts. Both Jesus and James condemn the failure to put faith into practice:

“For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you

gave me no drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome

me, naked and you did not clothe me... as you did not do it

to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.”

(Matthew 25:42-45)

“If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and

one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and filled,’ without

giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?

So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.”

(James 2:15-17)

This study guide is designed for group or individual Bible study. The lessons provide background information, related Scripture references, and study questions to deepen the reader’s understanding of the Bible passage along with its application to our lives. There are six sets of study questions per lesson, making it easier to study the lesson a little at a time during a week. A leader’s guide and other appendices are provided near the end of the book.

The closing devotion for each lesson comes from Andrew Murray’s short book, Working for God!, in which he encourages all Christians to be doers of the word, not hearers only. Murray was a well-loved and respected 19th century pastor in South Africa. His devotional writings have inspired countless Christians around the world.

It is hoped that your study of the book of James will motivate you to persevere joyfully through the trials of life as a devoted servant of God and the Lord Jesus Christ. May you serve the Lord well by putting your faith into practice in all kinds of circumstances so as to produce the fruit of good works for the glory of God.