Identity Crisis (James 1:1)

Introduction

What does it mean to have an identity crisis?

Is it appropriate for a Christian to have an identity crisis?

Transition

This verse is primarily about identity

Of the Writer

Of the Recipients/Readers

I. Heavenly Identity of the Writer

Probably

The half brother of Jesus  (Mark 6:3; Matt 13:55; Galatians 1:19).

Not a follower of Christ maybe until Jesus’ Resurrection (John 7:3-5).

Jesus appeared to him after His Resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:7; Acts 1:14).

Head of the Jerusalem church (Acts 12:17; 15:13; 21:18; Galatians 2:9, 12).

Tradition tells us that he was martyred in A.D. 62.

Definitely

Servant -

Of God and the Lord Jesus Christ

This is important because this is what he tells us

Heavenly or Spiritual identity

II. Earthly Identity of the Readers

Literally

Twelve tribes - Isreal

Dispersion - scattered

Literally those of Israel living away from Israel (1 Peter 1:1) .

Probably refers to Jewish believers who were scattered because of persecution (Acts 11:19).

Figuratively

At least in implication

Israel/the people of God in the NT and specifically according Paul includes Gentile believers.

So, this letter is applicable to all believers and includes the church (James 5:14).

The identifier here is the scattered people of God - not pleasant.

Application

This is a wisdom letter - what James learned from scripture (Proverbs) and from Christ.

Why does James share his wisdom with his readers?

Because they like him can live in accord with their true/spiritual identity no matter what their earthly identity may be.

And so can we.