V1
James was a leading apostle, compare Jude 1. He was a servant of Jesus
Christ, see Gen 24.34, where Abraham’s servant identified himself only by his
master’s name.
The twelve tribes, referring to Jews scattered following the Babylonian
exile. Although only 10 tribes lost, in that Judah and Levi (largely) had
returned, James saw the wider picture of Jews knowing Christ, see Matt 10.5-6.
Assuming James was Jesus’ brother, the similarity with Jesus’ style
is not surprising. There is a practical rather than doctrinal approach to a
range of issues.
V2
James introduces his first theme, the nature of true religion. Here is
something that is real, and spiritual, and is in contradiction to the standards
of the world.
James wrote to people
who suffered “trials of many kinds,” yet trials are an ordinary part of life
for all of us. Our reaction should be to rejoice, to welcome as friends. The
reason is that trials are of value to us spiritually; and we see all things as
being sent from God to strengthen our faith. Rather than seeking to avoid trials
sent to us, we must see them as an essential part of our spiritual development.
We know too that the Lord is with us in our trials, Acts 5.41; Heb 12.11.
V3-4
The fruit of welcoming trials is in spiritual character, Prov 28.20; Rom
5.3-5. In particular, we become patient, through which we develop maturity.
V5
The need of wisdom from God. Through such wisdom we understand better our
trials, and their value to us; illustrated in 1 Kings 3.10.
In our asking, we know that God is generous, giving to all, liberally,
and without finding fault (that is, without bringing blame or accusation against
us), see Rom 8.32.
V6-8
The true Christian has real faith, confidence that God will do what He
promised, Matt 21.22. Contrast Gen 49.4, Reuben was unstable as water.
Doubt is the enemy of faith. The promise here is that God will answer.
Our doubt questions His ability and willingness to answer.
Eph 4.14 refers to the immature Christian being tossed about, see 1 Tim
2.8. The real Christian is single-minded, full of conviction and decision.
V9-11
Commitment in Christ; beware the folly of exalting in, or trusting in,
earthly riches. The world lusts for material possessions; and we must be
different. The lowly brother is a brother, and therefore must be accepted, see
2.2-4.
James refers several times to the rich. There was perhaps an implication
(rather than explicit teaching) in the churches, that such wealth was a blessing
from God as a reward for their godliness. James answers this error. In 2.6, he
indicates that many achieved their wealth, or maintain it, by dishonest means.
Paul wrote of those who “god is their stomach” (Phil 3.19).
V12
Trials are different from temptations, although temptations do bring
trials. Resisting temptations does strengthen us spiritually. We must endure,
for temptations are repeated, or prolonged, and are difficult, or deceitful.
God does not tempt
anyone; but He does allow us to experience temptation as a trial, testing our
faith. God sends trials to strengthen us; the devil engineers temptation to
destroy us.
The Greek word (HUPOMENO) infers an on going patience in on going trials.
Our crown of life, see also Phil 4.1; 1 Thess 2.19-20.
V13-15
God’s perfect and holy character make it impossible that He could bring
temptation and sin. Temptation comes from within; we are mistaken if we seek to
attribute all temptation to the devil. It is true that he is the source of all
evil, but the fallen human spirit is a powerful force; it is his ally within.
David was tempted when he should have been fighting; disobedience in one
area can make us susceptible to temptation in another.
Sin is serious, since it leads to death.
V16
We are so easily deceived; that we are exempt from sin, and that we will
always be victorious.
“My dear brothers,” see v19; 2.5; James loves those to whom he
writes, even though he is quite firm with them.
V17-18
God does not bring temptation, but He does bring every good and perfect
gift.
He is unchanging and unchangeable. No shadow of turning, like a sundial;
no variation, like the moon.
He is the God of salvation, which is His work. He brought us faith
through His word of the gospel; His choice and initiative. We are the first
fruits of creation, a special privilege.
V19
True religion is evidenced in our actions and attitudes, see v26; Prov
10.19.
V20
Human wrath, impatience, indignation does not demonstrate the righteous
character of God. The first answer is to bridle the tongue, v26.
V21
The challenge – to lay aside all filthiness and overflowing wickedness,
dealing ruthlessly with ourselves.
The command – to receive the implanted word with meekness; this demands
obedience and submission. The word is implanted since we have faith in Christ.
The promise – that word can save our souls. This is a reference to
Christian experience.
V22-24
The lesson is to listen and to obey. James’ homely illustration brings
home this point with great effectiveness; the person looks into a mirror, but
immediately forgets what he looks like.
The danger here is that we deceive ourselves, having looked into God’s
word, and having agreed with it, but not doing it. We may be impressed by an
explanation of God’s word, but we must apply it into our lives.
V25
The perfect law that brings freedom; a balanced description of God’s
word. Look into it, continue in it,
do it; the promise is great blessing. Note that we are judged by that
same law (2.12).
V26-27 Summarising true religion. The tongue to be guarded, with a tight rein. Practical caring, visiting orphans and widows; often an unseen work. Separation from the world, maintaining a godly distinctive in our lives.