WORD: OC's 60-Day New Testament PlanSample

James: Consistently Practical Christianity

The Bible’s book of James addresses how first-century Christians were to live—and how succeeding Christians should live—amid anti-Christian cultures. Certainly, Christians who first received James’ correspondence encountered hostile responses to their behavior and redemption message, just as did—and do—subsequent generations of Christians. Today’s Christians—enmeshed in an increasingly post-modern/post-Christian culture—read James’ message within a similar cultural context. Thus, James’ Holy Spirit-inspired message is consistent throughout time; Christians—acting on faith—must live lives of obedience to God, not to the world.

As a Christian, I not only read and study the Bible to learn God’s story of creation and deliverance, but also to become aware of His expectations for a wisdom-directed life. Therefore, biblical wisdom literature such as Proverbs and Ecclesiastes attract me. James’ book certainly continues the same theme of living wisely according to God, who is the source and provider of true wisdom.

As a historian, my study of world history reveals humanity’s failure to learn from its mistakes and its refusal to redirect itself to obedience to God. The Old Testament is replete with historical accounts of Israel’s repetitive brief devotion to God and subsequent rebellion, His corrective discipline of His people, their pleas for deliverance from such punishment, and God’s rescue of His chosen people. Thus, just as James’ letter applied directly to its recipients’ first-century cultural realities, so does it remain applicable in the current societal setting.

As an architect who not only designed numerous built structures, but also taught architectural history and design, I realize the importance of translating architectural design theory to reality. Theory means nothing without observable evidence: creative theory must result in appropriate practical application. Similarly, James instructs that, “. . . faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” (James 2:17)

Thus, I look to James’ book as a practical application manual for pleasing God with my thoughts, words, and actions. As the world continues to be inhospitable to Godly living, James contends that Christians—because of our faith in God and His Son—must be different. Reading his book convicts me to live out a faith-filled life consistently obedient to God. Consequently, the book of James reiterates the consistent biblical message that true faith in God requires our wise, active obedience, despite worldly pressures to abandon the Creator.

Written By Gary Lindsey
History Professor, Oklahoma Christian University