General Letters · New Testament
The Book of James
Genuine faith is proven by how we live.
- Author
- James, the brother of Jesus
- Date
- Probably c. AD 45–50
- Chapters
- 5
- Genre
- General Letters
Summary
James writes a practical letter to scattered believers. He encourages them to face trials with joy, ask God for wisdom, and be doers of the word, not hearers only.
James warns against favouritism, an uncontrolled tongue, worldly quarrels and the misuse of wealth. He insists that faith without works is dead, and calls believers to humility, patience in suffering, and faithful prayer: "The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective."
Outline
- Chapter 1 — Trials, wisdom and doing the word
- Chapter 2 — Faith and works
- Chapter 3 — Taming the tongue
- Chapters 4–5 — Humility, patience and prayer
Key Themes
Living faithWisdomSpeechHumilityPrayer
Key Verses
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
Start reading JamesIn the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.