James 1:16-18 Discussion Guide

Ask

What is the greatest gift you have ever received from another person?

Do you think your current circumstances are more a gift or a curse? Why?

Read

James 1:16–18 ESV

16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. 18 Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

​ ESV12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him. 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. 14 But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. 15 Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.

Think

How does James’ words, “do not be deceived,” connect these verses to the previous verses?

James identifies God as the “Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to changing.” The words for “lights,” “variation,” and “changing” all have to do with heavenly bodies and their movements (sun, moon, and stars). What are two things you think James might be trying to communicate about God as the giver of gifts through this description?

What do you think the “word of truth” refers to? How has God “brought us forth” by it?

What purpose does James intend with the idea that “we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures?”

Discuss

Should we view our present circumstances as a gift or a curse? Why?

What good gifts has God given you that you should be thankful for?

How does the gospel affect how you relate to God as the Father who gives good things?

What response should we give as a result of this passage?