James 1:1-4

Introduction to James

Written by James “the brother of Jesus”

Written most likely in the mid 40s AD

Many people call this book the “Proverbs of the New Testament”

The Text

James 1:1-4 - Joy through trials

James 1:1–4 ESV

1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes in the Dispersion: Greetings. 2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. 4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

Verses 2-3: We should have joy through all our trials because the testing of our faith produces endurance in us

The testing of your faith will grow your faith

Romans 8:28–29 ESV

28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. 29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.

All trials we grow through are for our good

This good is that we are made more like Christ

Verse 4: The results of steadfastness

This steadfastness could be described what it is like to stand in rushing water. In a river or on a beach.

When you have walked through different situations that you did not know if you would make it through and God brings you through it it grows your faith!

These trials will grow your faith so that you are lacking nothing