All Nations Community Church
This series covers the book of James, a letter that serves as practical instructions for the Christian life. When we deal with trials, contentions, and lack of faith, James teaches us that we can still have joy in the midst of our circumstances. The foundation of the book is the importance of faith; faith or the lack thereof can determine the direction of one’s life.
Main idea: Faith that endures is humble under the sovereignty of God.
Patient endurance understands the truth about God's sovereignty.
· Human nature wants control of one’s own life.
James 4:13-17 ESV
James 4:13-17 reveals that...
- Disciples must resist the temptation of self-sufficiency
- A disciple must live with humility that expresses dependence on God
- A disciple makes plans in step with God
James warns his readers...
- Against arrogance and boasting in self-reliance; condemns as evil
- To do better, when they know better
James assures his readers to trust the sovereignty of God
James 5:1-6 ESV
A Faith that Endures reveals three imperatives…
Imperative #1: Be Generous, vv. 1-6
James's message is about the wealthy not to them!
Why address a topic to non-believers?
· To assure readers that God brings justice
· The readers must be found on God's side of justice
· God's side of justice is to Be Generous
Warning:
· Don't trust in treasures; they will fade
· Don't use the treasure for abuse
James 5:7-12 ESV
Imperative #2: Be Patient, vv. 7-12
Not sure how? Imitate a farmer, vv. 7-8
Be patient how? Not complaining
Be patient how? Note the examples patience
· Prophets
· Job
Be patient how? Not with loose lips, v. 12
James 5:13-20 ESV
Imperative #3: Be Prayerful, vv. 13-20
· James stresses the magnitude of prayer in the verses
· He uses the word "pray/prayer" 7 times (vv. 13-18)
· James closes the epistle with practical advice on faith in action… · "Rescue your fallen brother" vv. 19-20
Reflect and Discuss:
1. How can we fall prey to the temptation to hoard riches? How can we be shaped into the culture’s mind-set––either living like material things will last forever or using up material things solely for our own pleasures (eat, drink, and be merry for tomorrow we die)? How can we live differently?
2. How can we learn to leave the things we cannot control in God’s hands?
3. How can we be patient, yet active at the same time?
4. Why would James charge us to confess our sins to one another? How can small groups facilitate church members confessing their sins to one another?
5. How can the church bring back those who are wandering away from the truth? How is this loving?
6. How has your community been instrumental in your life?
7. When was the last time you believe you prayed for something fervently? What made that situation different?