Taught His Teachings

James has been one of the most controversial books of the New Testament.  Martin Luther wanted to remove it from the New Testament canon, calling it the “epistle of straw.”  (Think about what happens with straw, especially around barn animals.)  That’s because James’ teachings are so practical and hit right at home, even still today.

Read the following passages as “nuggets.”  Read one and then let it seep in for a minute.  Ask God how you are doing in this area.  Ask God if there is anything He wants you to change.  Then move on to the next.  Let the wisdom of God, as shared through James, enter into your mind and heart today.

Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. But the rich should take pride in their humiliation--since they will pass away like a wild flower. (James 1:9-10 NIV)

Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him. (James 1:12 NIV)

When tempted, no one should say, "God is tempting me." For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; (James 1:13 NIV)

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. (James 1:17 NIV)

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. (James 1:19-20 NIV)

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. (James 1:22 NIV)

Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. (James 1:26 NIV)

Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. (James 1:27 NIV)

My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. (James 2:1 NIV)

Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, "Go in peace; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. (James 2:15-17 NIV)

James’ teachings were not just his own.  The words were inspired by God.  Many of these teachings, though, we can trace back to James’ brother, Jesus.  James not only knew his brother’s teachings.  He taught them as well.

How about you?  Do you know James’ teachings?  Do you know Jesus’ teachings?  Do you teach them as well?