The book of James only has 5 chapters, so we are going to take our time on it. As we go through the chapters we will read or listen to the entire chapter, take a few days to break it up into smaller sections, then read or listen to the entire chapter again. 

It is helpful to read the letters in small and larger sections as they are letters. 

It’s important to remember that the chapters and headings were put in later and that the letter is ongoing and unfolds over the chapters, much like a movie.

As we start the book of James some brief information may be helpful. 

James was the half-brother of Jesus who was a leader in the early church. 

The book of James isn’t addressed to a specific church or people group but instead to all the Christian Jews living outside of Jerusalem. 

James is assuming their foundational faith and their belief in Jesus, his death and resurrection. 

The focus of James’ teaching is what it looks like to follow Jesus, a new way of living. 

James is less focused on theological teaching but instead challenging how we interact with the world and how we treat each other in light of Jesus.

The book is sometimes blunt and often challenging. James doesn’t pull any punches. 

The heart behind his teaching isn’t to tell off naughty Christians. Instead, it is to encourage us to follow the way of Jesus, the way that brings life and freedom, this new way of living that can also bring freedom and healing to those around us. 

(Click on the daily links to take you straight to the verses in the Youversion app)

Let’s jump in together and read chapter 1.