James -A Great Treasure Of Wisdom!

A letter written to the Church for practical application of God's Word for daily living!

As we seek a better understanding of pleasing God, we would miss so much practical direction, if we ignore the epistle James wrote to "the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad" (James 1:1).

It is extremely important to understand the purpose of this letter.  It is in fact addressed to the twelve tribes scattered among the nations.  A reading of Acts chapter 8 would help put this in perspective.  The deacon Stephen was murdered for his faith in Jesus Christ.  The opposition in Jerusalem decides to take prisoners and go after other Christians.  Many of these Christians find themselves forced to leave their homes, or stay and risk prison and possibly death.  This persecution of the early Church does have fruit, very sweet fruit.  Verse 4 of Acts 8, "Therefore, those who had been scattered went about preaching the word."  God used this scattering as an opportunity to turn laymen into missionaries!

Now with all the above in mind, imagine how this must have been for James.  He was the Pastor of the Church in Jerusalem.  His flock must flee and as a good shepherd, his concern is for his flock!  So James, having an understanding of what his sheep are going through, writes them this letter to accomplish much.

This letter is filled with encouragement and with instructions for living in a manner that is most pleasing to God!  You have to see that James is extremely wise and shares his God given wisdom.