personal study guide james€¦ · james ∙ a faith that works ∙ personal study guide fall 2017...

JAMESPERSONAL STUDY GUIDE

I B C L R . O R G / R E S O U R C E S

∙ a faith that works ∙

Fall 2017

JAMESFall 2017

JAMES∙ a faith that works ∙

PERSONAL STUDY GUIDE

Fall 2017

2 SEPT. 3 - INTRODUCTION: It’s Good to Be in the Family

6 SEPT. 10 - TRIALS 1: The Joy of Suffering

10 SEPT. 17 - TRIALS 2: The Blessing of Suffering

16 SEPT. 24 - TRIALS 3: Suffering Under Financial Pressure

22 OCT. 1 - TRIALS 4: Suffering in the Family

28 OCT. 8 - GOD ON MONEY: Bearing the Trial of Money

32 OCT. 15 - GOD ON MONEY: The Sin of Partiality

38 OCT. 22 - GOD ON MONEY: God Condemns Those Who Abuse Others With Their Wealth

42 OCT. 29 - WISDOM: Hearing and Doing God’s Word

48 NOV. 5 - WISDOM: Knowing God’s Mind Leads to Peace in the Fellowship

54 NOV. 12 - GOD ON GOSSIP: The Power of an Unbridled Heart

60 NOV. 19 - GOD ON GOSSIP: Why words are so powerful

66 NOV. 26 - PART 1: Belief Without Action is Not Belief

70 DEC. 3 - PART 2: Belief Without Action is Not Belief

76 DEC. 10 - Fighting in the Family

82 DEC. 17 - Fighting in the Family

2 JAMES Fall 2017

JAMESSeptember 3, 2017

IT ’S GOOD TO BE IN THE FAMILY

INTRODUCTION


2 JAMES Fall 2017

PERSONAL STUDY GUIDE ibclr.org 3

BIBLE STUDY

1. AUTHOR – JAMES 1:1A

1James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.

• The Book of James is a general epistle or letter. What purpose does this type of literature serve in the larger context of the Bible?

• Look at 1 Corinthians 15:7, then Acts 1:12-14 and 15:12-21. What other biographical information do we have about James the author from the rest of the New Testament?

• How does James refer to himself? What did James mean by this term? Read Exodus 21:2-6.

• What changed everything for James? What lengths did he go to show this change in his life?

HOME22:6—Where is culture pressuring your kids to find their identity (looks, style, status, athletic ability, intelligence, income, etc.)? How can you help them look to Christ for their ultimate sense of identity?

2. AUDIENCE – JAMES 1:1B

1 . . . To the twelve tribes in the Dispersion: Greetings.

• Who was the letter’s intended audience? Read Acts 8:1-4. Why were the recipients “scattered”?

• How does their situation relate to the current status of the global church?

4 JAMES Fall 2017

• The last word in this section is “greetings,” a word that means, “be cheerful, rejoice, or be glad.” If their situation was so bad, how could they be cheerful?

• What are some reasons we can be cheerful when following Jesus is costly?

HOME22:6 – Discuss: Have you ever felt ridiculed or judged at school because you are a Christian? If you have, share about how that made you feel and how you responded. What are some things our family can be doing to make sure our faith is strong when life gets difficult?

3. THEMES – JAMES 1:2

2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds.

• Would you say Christians are more known for their “talk” or their “walk”? Which one speaks louder to a suspicious audience?

• What are some key issues most Christians deal with? What kind of advice would you desire addressing these issues?

HOME22:6 – Think about what years of parenting you find yourself in with each of your children: The Root Years (birth-age 5); The Trunk Years (ages 6-10); The Branch Years (ages 11-18). What is one thing you hope to learn from the Book of James that can positively influence your parenting?


• Think about your life as a Christian. Where do you need practical advice to live more faithfully?

• What wisdom do the people in your home need? How can you proactively teach wisdom to your children so that when they need it, they will be settled in their faith or comfortable coming to the Lord and you for advice?

• If your association with Jesus was all your non-believing friends knew about Jesus and Christianity, what conclusions might they draw?

APPLY & OBEY

6 JAMES Fall 2017


THE JOY OF SUFFERING

TRIALS 1


6 JAMES Fall 2017


BIBLE STUDY

1. HAVE A JOYFUL ATTITUDE (JAMES 1:2-3)

2 Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, 3 for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.

• What is the difference between suffering because of personal sin and suffering because there is sin in the world?

• What would be an example of each? Which kind of suffering did James address?

• What do you remember about James’s audience? Why might it seem odd that he told them to “count [suffering] all joy” (v. 2)?

• Is it possible to be joyful in affliction? Does this mean that we can’t be hurt or disappointed over our suffering? Explain.

HOME22:6 – Discuss how you’ve been able to experience joy in the midst of trials and how God has used various trials for His glory. Pray for a family you know who is in the midst of a trial.

2. KEEP ON ENDURING – JAMES 1:4

4 And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

• Read 2 Corinthians 4:16-18. What are we denying God and ourselves if we fail to embrace our suffering and see it in light of eternity?

8 JAMES Fall 2017

• How might the endurance that is developed through suffering prove to be useful in other areas of life?

HOME22:6 – Share areas of life in which you each need endurance. Use this conversation as a chance to help one another see how God strengthens us to endure all circumstances.

3. SEEK GOD’S WISDOM WITHOUT DOUBTING (JAMES 1:5-8)

5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. 6 But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. 7 For that person must not suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord; 8 he is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.

• What encouragement can we find in the Scriptures to trust God when we are going through trials and are unsure of God’s purpose? Think of specific Scripture verses or examples. Who wrestled with similar issues?

• What did James tell the church to do if they lacked wisdom? How do we apply that in our lives?

• When we go to God for wisdom, what are we believing about His nature or character? When we fail to go to Him for wisdom, what are we believing about Him? About ourselves?

• Home22:6 – Prayer should be the bedrock of our families. Spend some time seeking God’s wisdom through prayer together as a family.


• How have you seen God take your trials and turn them into something positive? How did this experience grow your faith?

• Knowing that suffering is a matter of “when” and not “if,” how can we prepare ourselves to support one another and keep on enduring through trials?

• When unbelievers around you experience trials, they have nowhere certain to look. How might you be able to step into a situation like this and point them back to Jesus? Can you think of any specific opportunities at this time?

APPLY & OBEY

10 JAMES Fall 2017


THE BLESSING OF SUFFERING

TRIALS 2


10 JAMES Fall 2017


BIBLE STUDY

1. GOD BLESSES THE ONE WHO ENDURES THROUGH TRIAL (JAMES 1:12).

12 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.

• James wrote that we are blessed when we remain steadfast (or persevere) under trials. What does it mean (and what does it not mean) to be blessed?

• Look at Matthew 7:24-27. Our trials have a way of revealing our foundation. What has a recent trial revealed about your foundation?

• What hope exists for the follower of Jesus, no matter the outcome of the trial?

HOME22:6: Ask your children what trials they are walking through and listen to them. Do they feel comfortable coming to you? Why or why not? One way to do this is to ask: “What was the best part of your day? What was the hardest part of your day?” Share your answers to these questions as well.

12 JAMES Fall 2017

2. GOD IS NOT THE SOURCE OF TEMPTATION (JAMES 1:13-16)

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. 16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers.

• What is the difference between God placing us in situations where temptations may occur and God actually tempting us Himself? Why is this an important distinction to make?

• What is the goal of temptation? What is the devil trying to get us to do when we are tempted?

• Read James 1:14-15 again, paying attention to the progression of sin James described. What is the warning for us as it relates to giving into temptation?

• Why do we tend to blame our problems on God, others, or our environment and upbringing?

HOME22:6 –Discuss times in which you have all misbehaved. What desire were you trying to satisfy? What would have been a better way to satisfy that than with the way you chose?


3. GOD IS THE SOURCE OF ALL THAT IS GOOD (JAMES 1:17-18).

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.

• What truths about God did James affirm in these verses?

• In what ways has your experience verified God’s constancy and goodness?

HOME22:6 – No matter what stage of parenting you are in (Roots, Trunk, Branches), if your children can talk they can articulate good things in their lives. Ask your children what some of their favorite things are, and help them understand how all good gifts come from God.

14 JAMES Fall 2017

• In light of the sermon and our discussion today, how would you summarize the blessing of suffering?

• Being open and honest about your temptations a good way to fight off those temptations. Is there a person in your life who knows what you are tempted by? If not, who could be that person?

HOME22:6 – Consider memorizing one or all of the following passages to help overcome temptation when it comes: Hebrews 10:18; James 4:7; and Psalm 119:11. Print the verse(s) out and display it in your home.

APPLY & OBEY

16 JAMES Fall 2017


SUFFERING UNDER FINANCIAL PRESSURE

TRIALS 3


16 JAMES Fall 2017


BIBLE STUDY

1. BE PATIENT UNTIL JESUS DEALS WITH IT (JAMES 5:7-8).

7 Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. 8 You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.

• What does the farmer know about his circumstances that enables him to wait patiently? How might impatience cause a farmer more harm?

• How does the illustration of the farmer show that “being patient” differs from being passive? What does this type of active patience look like in your life, specifically as it relates to suffering under financial pressure?

• What does having patience make room for God to do?

HOME 22:6 – Discuss when it’s hardest for your children to be patient. What benefits come from developing patience?

18 JAMES Fall 2017

2. BE PATIENT BECAUSE HE IS ABOUT TO DEAL WITH IT SOON (JAMES 5:8).

8You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.

• Read 1 John 3:2-3. What are all of God’s children called to wait for patiently?

• How would you say you are doing at this patient waiting?

HOME22:6 – Discuss what isn’t happening as soon as you would like (i.e., Christmas break, fun trip, graduation, birthday party, etc.) How will the wait be worth it once that day comes?

3. DON’T COMPLAIN BECAUSE GOD WILL JUDGE SOON (JAMES 5:9-10).

9 Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing at the door. 10 As an example of suffering and patience, brothers, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.

• What is the danger of grumbling against another brother or sister?

• How does this grumbling demonstrate impatience?


HOME 22:6 – Discuss what you tend to grumble about the most. How can patience help you?

4. TWO EXAMPLES OF PATIENCE (JAMES 5:11-12)

11 Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful. 12 But above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath, but let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no, so that you may not fall under condemnation. James specifically mentioned the endurance, or steadfastness, of Job as an example of patience through suffering. Why he is a good example for us today of patience in trials?

• How might dwelling on God’s compassion and mercy (v. 11) help you put complaining in perspective?

• What additional insight does verse 12 give us into the need for patience through suffering?

HOME22:6 – Would you say we are a family where our “yes” means “yes” and our “no” means “no”? Explain your thoughts. What is one way you can make a better effort to be truthful and consistent this week?

20 JAMES Fall 2017

• Do you truly believe Jesus will deal with your financial pressures soon? How will that truth influence your worry or your behavior this week?

• In what areas of your life do you have a hard time choosing patience instead of trying to “do it yourself”?

• What are some ways we might take care to be more patient with one another in the church family?

HOME22:6 –As parents, how can you do a better job of “discipling as you go” in the area of trust and patience?

APPLY & OBEY

22 JAMES Fall 2017

JAMESOctober 1, 2017

SUFFERING IN THE FAMILY

TRIALS 4


22 JAMES Fall 2017


BIBLE STUDY

1. IF YOU ARE SUFFERING YOU SHOULD PRAY (JAMES 5:13).

13 Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. . . .

• How does James’s advice on prayer compare to your practice of prayer?

• What would help you more consistently make prayer your initial response in times of suffering?

HOME22:6 – During your family time this week, read Psalm 138, a prayer of thanksgiving from King David. Explain how even in suffering (v. 3,7) David prayed to God and thanked Him. Then encourage your children to memorize Psalm 138:1a.

2. IF YOU ARE IN A GOOD TIME, YOU SHOULD PRAISE GOD (JAMES 5:13).

13 . . . Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise.

• When do you find you are most often compelled to go to God in prayer—in sorrow or in joy? Why?

• Make a list of some of the words and phrases we most often use in prayers or songs of praise. What does this list reveal to you about God? What does it reveal about us?

24 JAMES Fall 2017

HOME22:6 — Read James 5:13. Pick a worship song that your family can sing together throughout the week. Help your children understand what the song says about God and your relationship with Him.

3. IF YOU ARE SICK, YOU SHOULD CALL THE ELDERS OF THE CHURCH TO PRAY FOR YOU (JAMES 5:14-16).

14 Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. 16 Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.

• If we do not make our sickness known to those called to shepherd and lead us, of what blessings are we depriving the church and ourselves?

• What are we missing when we don’t partner our prayers with action?

• What did James promise about the sick in verse 15? What was he not promising?

• These verses also teach us that if a person is sick and calls on the elders, that person’s sins will be forgiven. How are sin and sickness related?


• What joy or relief have you experienced when you confess sin to another brother or sister in Christ?

• Why are the prayers of the righteous so effective? When have you seen this?

HOME22:6 – Read James 5:16. Who would your kids want to pray for them when they are sick? How can you teach them to lean upon the church?

4. PRAY LIKE ELIJAH (JAMES 5:17-18).

17 Elijah was a man with a nature like ours, and he prayed fervently that it might not rain, and for three years and six months it did not rain on the earth. 18 Then he prayed again, and heaven gave rain, and the earth bore its fruit.

• As an example of the effectiveness of the prayers of the righteous (v. 16), James included the example of Elijah. Look at Elijah’s story in 1 Kings 17–18. What do we learn from his example?

• Why do you think James emphasizes that Elijah was a man “with a nature like ours”?

HOME 22:6—Read the story of Elijah and the prophets of Baal in 1 Kings 18:20-39. Who needs the prayers of our family today? Take the time to pray for them now.

26 JAMES Fall 2017

• Who will you commit to pray for? Write down the names of one to three people.

• Do you find that your prayers center more on yourself and your family than on others? How can you be more intentional about praying for others?

• What joy or relief have you experienced when you confess sin to another brother or sister in Christ?

APPLY & OBEY

28 JAMES Fall 2017


BEARING THE TRIAL OF MONEY

GOD ON MONEY:


28 JAMES Fall 2017


BIBLE STUDY

1. THE PERSON WHO IS UNDER THE TRIAL OF POVERTY SHOULD BOAST ABOUT HIS HIGH POSITION (JAMES 1:9).

9 Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation.

• With the phrase “the lowly brother,” James addressed people in physical poverty and called them to boast in their exaltation. What spiritual benefits come from lowly circumstances?

• Have you ever struggled financially but found spiritual blessing in your struggle? Share an example if you feel comfortable doing so.

• How would the lowly be exalted? What high position were they due to inherit?

• Does this text suggest that we should seek to be poor? Why or why not?

• Even if we are not under the trial of poverty at this time, we cross paths with people who are. Look through Matthew 25:31-46 and Acts 2:42-47. What responsibility do we have to the lowly among us?

HOME22:6 – Read 1 John 3:17. Do you know anyone who is in need? What needs does that person have? What is one way our family can help meet that need?

30 JAMES Fall 2017

2. THE PERSON WHO HAS WEALTH SHOULD BOAST IN HIS LOW RANK (JAMES 1:10-11).

10 And the rich in his humiliation, because like a flower of the grass he will pass away. 11 For the sun rises with its scorching heat and withers the grass; its flower falls, and its beauty perishes. So also will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits.

• What are some specific ways wealth can hinder spiritual growth?

• How does our belief in Jesus change the way we think about financial blessing, or how should it?

• What is the big point James was making about our wealth in verses 10-11? Read also Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:19-21?

• The second outline point from the sermon was that the person who has wealth should boast in his low rank. What does that type of boasting look like in action?

HOME22:6 – Read James 1:10-11. What is one of your favorite possessions? Does it have any eternal value? Is there a way you could use that possession to help someone else or to honor God?


• How can we challenge each other to have the right perspective on financial hardship and material blessing? What does that look like in an ongoing basis in this group?

• Do you know someone who is poor and does not understand his or her value before God, or someone who is well off but searches for his or her identity in wealth? What would it look like to engage that person about this misplaced identity? Do that this week if you get the opportunity.

HOME22:6 – Talk with your kids about what they have been blessed with and how they might use that blessing to bless others.

APPLY & OBEY

32 JAMES Fall 2017


THE SIN OF PARTIALITY

GOD ON MONEY:


32 JAMES Fall 2017


BIBLE STUDY

1. DON’T PLAY FAVORITES IN THE FAITH. JAMES 2:1-3

1 My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory. 2 For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, 3 and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet.”

• These verses describe how favoritism had worked its way into the church. What is the root issue of favoritism and prejudice?

• Though James was describing the worship of the church, how does this issue extend beyond the context of a worship service? Where else have you observed prejudice and favoritism?

HOME22:6 – Read James 2:1-3. Help your children think about being excluded. Ask if there has ever been a time when they felt excluded. How did that make them feel?

1A. YOU ARE MAKING A FAKE STATUS THAT IS AGAINST GOD’S PLAN. JAMES 2:4-5

4 have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? 5 Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him?

• Note how James described the poor in this passage and think back to our discussion last week about the trial of poverty. How does God treat those who are poor in the world’s eyes differently than the way the world treats them? Read Matthew 5:3 as well.

34 JAMES Fall 2017

• From James 2:5, why does God condemn favoritism? How does the kingdom of God level the playing field?

HOME22:6 – Read James 2:4-5. Why is status so important? How does this attitude show up in your school or with your friends?

1B. YOU ARE DISHONORING THE POOR MAN. (JAMES 2:6-7)

6 But you have dishonored the poor man. Are not the rich the ones who oppress you, and the ones who drag you into court? 7 Are they not the ones who blaspheme the honorable name by which you were called?

• Read 1 Corinthians 12:12-14. What are some ways all people—regardless of social status or material wealth—can contribute to the kingdom of God?

• What would change in your life if you focused your attention on those who need your help instead of on those who might be able to help you?

HOME22:6 – Read 1 Corinthians 12:12-14. You are a part of the body of Christ. What is one gift you feel like God has given you that you can use to love and serve others at church, rather than excluding them?


1C. YOU ARE SINNING BY VIOLATING THE ROYAL LAW. (JAMES 2:8-11)

8 If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well. 9 But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors. 10 For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become guilty of all of it. 11 For he who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” If you do not commit adultery but do murder, you have become a transgressor of the law

• In verses 8-9, James provided two choices for how we respond to other people. What are those two choices?

• Why is it wrong to show favoritism to the wealthy?

HOME22:6 – Read James 2:8-11. What types of people do you have a problem treating well? Why? Who should you show compassion to this week?

36 JAMES Fall 2017

2. LIVE LIKE YOU HAVE RECEIVED EXTRAVAGANT MERCY. JAMES 2:12-13

12 So speak and so act as those who are to be judged under the law of liberty. 13 For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

• In verse 12, James reminded his readers that loving others, as God would have us do, has two aspects. What are those two aspects of loving others?

• James drew the connection with the law, and then he did the same with the gospel. What impact does the gospel have on how we treat others?

• How does the love and mercy James discussed relate to the love and mercy God has demonstrated to you?

HOME22:6 – Read James 2:12-13. Think about your typical week. Is there a certain setting or a particular group in which you are more tempted to be judgmental?


• If you were gut-level honest, what sins of favoritism do you need to repent of?

• Are there any areas where favoritism has taken root in this group? How can we ensure that this group is a place where all people can feel comfortable and accepted?

• How does showing prejudice and favoritism endanger our witness before a non-believing culture?

APPLY & OBEY

38 JAMES Fall 2017


GOD CONDEMNS THOSE WHO ABUSE OTHERS WITH

THEIR WEALTH

GOD ON MONEY:

38 JAMES Fall 2017



GOD CONDEMNS THOSE WHO ABUSE OTHERS WITH

THEIR WEALTH

BIBLE STUDY

1. THE TRAPPINGS OF WEALTH WILL BE DESTROYED (JAMES 5:1-3).

1 Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming upon you. 2 Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. 3 Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the last days.

• In James’s day, people showed off their wealth by hoarding, wearing fancy clothes, or eating lots of food. When James referred to clothing and precious metals, what key points did he make that apply to us today?

• The first point from Dr. Smith’s sermon last week was that the trappings of wealth will be destroyed. If we live with this perspective, what changes in how we spend and value money?

HOME22:6—Read Revelation 22:1-5. Of everything we give our money and efforts to on earth, what will really matter for eternity?

40 JAMES Fall 2017

2. YOU HAVE ACCUMULATED WEALTH BY ABUSING OTHERS, AND GOD WILL JUDGE YOU. JAMES 5:4-6

4 Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. 5 You have lived on the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter. 6 You have condemned and murdered the righteous person. He does not resist you.

• What is one specific way you can make sure you are not abusing others with your wealth?

• What does the management of our physical assets reveal about the spiritual condition of our hearts?

• As we were reminded in Dr. Smith’s sermon last week, God acts against injustice, regardless of the cause. How does knowing that God will one day punish the wicked give you confidence for living today?

HOME22:6 – Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-7. As a family, how can we invest our time and money to help others instead of being selfish? What are some ways serving or giving can become regular family activities?


• The opposite of abusing others is caring for them. Is there a way we could work together as a small group and pool our resources to help someone else? What ideas come to mind?

• Why does God call the church to support the poor in this way? Read Acts 2:42-47 to be challenged by the early church’s example.

• Christians are called to be distinct from the world. How can the ways we spend, invest, save, or give away our money lead others to see the gospel at work in our lives?

APPLY & OBEY

42 JAMES Fall 2017


HEARING & DOING GOD’S WORD

WISDOM:

42 JAMES Fall 2017



BIBLE STUDY

1. AM I LISTENING? DON’T GET ANGRY—LISTEN TO GOD’S WORD. (JAMES 1:19-20)

19 Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; 20 for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.

• Notice the process James described in verse 19. How might following the three steps that James laid out position you to receive truth from God?

• Read Psalm 46:10. Looking through your week, how often do you make space to still yourself and receive the Word of truth?

• Why is listening to the Word necessary for your spiritual growth? When has slowing down and listening to the Scriptures led to spiritual vibrancy in your life?

HOME22:6 – Read Psalm 46:10 together. Set aside a time this week to stop the busyness of life and read God’s Word together as a family. Then decide on a way you can make this a regular part of your week.

44 JAMES Fall 2017

2. AM I RECEIVING THE WORD? PUT AWAY SIN AND RECEIVE THE WORD. (JAMES 1:21)

21 Therefore put away all filthiness and rampant wickedness and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

• What is the critical difference between knowing about the Word of God and receiving the Word of God?

• When you spend more time in God’s Word, what changes about the way you live?

• The word for “filth” is a rare word that has the idea of wax in your ears. Neglecting the Bible puts a “wax” around our hearts. How does this wax build up in our lives? Do you think this is something that happens suddenly or over a period of time? Explain.

HOME22:6 – One of the ways we receive God’s Word is through memorizing it. Memorize Psalm 119:105 together.


3. AM I OBEYING? DON’T JUST HEAR THE WORD—OBEY THE WORD. (JAMES 1:22-25)

22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. 23 For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. 24 For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. 25 But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.

• Why do we often hear and not do when it comes to Scripture? What does this say about our faith (vv. 23-24)?

• In what area of your life could you do a better job applying God’s Word rather than just listening to it?

• God’s Word always requires a response. How did James illustrate this point for us?

HOME22:6 – Read James 1:22-25. Ask your kids what they are learning from God’s Word, then ask how they are applying what they learn to their lives.

46 JAMES Fall 2017

4. AM I SELF-DECEIVED? (JAMES 1:26-27)

26 If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless. 27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.

• James reveals that true faith bridles the tongue (v. 26), shows mercy (v. 27), and is not worldly (v. 27). Where do we see each of these in the life of Jesus Christ?

• Which of those needs immediate attention from you? What action step will you take this week?

HOME22:6 – Read James 1:26-27. How can we keep ourselves unstained by the world as we go to work and school this week?


• Audit your weekly and daily schedule—when can you make time to read the Bible?

• Are you a doer of the Word? Is your belief in Jesus evident in the way you live?

• How can this be a place where we gracefully evaluate our lives and see what does and doesn’t match up with Jesus?

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48 JAMES Fall 2017

JAMESNovember 5, 2017

KNOWING GOD’S MIND LEADS TO PEACE

IN THE FELLOWSHIP

WISDOM:

48 JAMES Fall 2017



BIBLE STUDY

1. DEMONSTRATE TRUE WISDOM: YOU THINK YOU ARE WISE – PROVE IT. (JAMES 3:13)

13 Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom.

• What is the difference between wisdom and knowledge, and why are the two so easy to confuse?

• How does James say we are to demonstrate godly wisdom? What does this look like in action?

HOME22:6 – Read James 3:13. What was the best part of your day? What was the hardest part of your day? Did you make wise choices in reaction to the hardest part of your day?

2. DON’T BE DECEIVED: DON’T BRAG ABOUT WISDOM WHEN YOU DON’T HAVE IT. (JAMES 3:14)

14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth.

• Bragging about wisdom looks like bitter jealousy and selfish ambition. How do these traits choke out wisdom?

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• How are we to deal with bitter jealousy and selfish ambition?

HOME22:6 - Read James 3:14. Did you have jealousy or selfish ambition in your heart today?

3. A DESCRIPTION OF FAKE WISDOM: THE SOURCE OF FALSE WISDOM IS BELOW. (JAMES 3:15)

15 This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.

• James used three terms to describe fake wisdom, the root of our selfish behavior (v. 14)—earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. How does that knowledge impact your attitude about your speech and behavior?

• What are some markers that will help us discern false wisdom when it arises?

HOME22:6 - Read the story of Jesus’ temptation in Matthew 4:1-11. What can we learn from Jesus about avoiding fake wisdom?


4. A DESCRIPTION OF TRUE WISDOM: THE SOURCE OF TRUE WISDOM IS ABOVE. (JAMES 3:16-18)

16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. 18 And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

• What characteristics of godly wisdom did James list in verse 17? What would be the opposite of each of these characteristics?

• What insights about wisdom does this give you?

• Why is wisdom easier to come by when you devote yourself to pursuing God with a pure heart?

HOME22:6—Read James 3:17. Make sure your kids understand what each of the traits of true wisdom mean. Then ask: Which of these do you need God to help grow in you as He grows you in wisdom?

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• We all look for wisdom in the wrong places from time to time. What are some of those places for you? Why is it so tempting to look there?

• What is one step you can take this week to pursue God’s wisdom?

• How should proper speech and wise behavior influence our relationships with both believers and unbelievers? What principles from this lesson will you apply to your relationships this week?

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54 JAMES Fall 2017


THE POWER OF AN UNBRIDLED HEART

GOD ON GOSSIP:

54 JAMES Fall 2017



BIBLE STUDY

1. THE TONGUE IS SMALL BUT POWERFUL. JAMES 3:3-5A

3 If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. 4 Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. 5 So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things.

• The analogies James used in these verses describe the power of our words. When do you first remember seeing the power your words could have?

• Read Proverbs 18:21. Solomon was the wisest man who has ever lived and thought that words had the power of life and death. Why do we make the things we say, good or bad, less important than the Bible makes them?

• Read 1 Timothy 3:9-11; 5:13-11; Titus 2:2-5. These are letters Paul wrote to young pastors. Why do you think he felt the need to mention and condemn gossip so strongly here? What is your relationship with gossip?

HOME22:6—Read Proverbs 16:28. Ask your kids why it is wrong to say something about someone else that they wouldn’t say to their face. Help them think through how they should respond if their friends are gossiping.

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2. THE TONGUE IS SMALL BUT DESTRUCTIVE. JAMES 3:5B-6

5b How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! 6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell.

• How does the tongue “stain the whole body” and set “the entire course of one’s life on fire”?

• Practically speaking, how can we focus on what is good and restrain the destructive power of the tongue?

HOME22:6—Read 1 Corinthians 10:31. Did your speech glorify God today, or was it more like the destructive fire of James 3:6? How can you do better tomorrow?

3. THE TONGUE CAN BE UNCONTROLLABLE. JAMES 3:7-9

7 For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God.

• What did Jesus say about our inability to control our tongues in Matthew 12:34-35? How do our tongues lead us to realize we are sinful?

• Why does realizing we cannot control our words put us in an excellent position to receive grace from Jesus?


HOME22:6—Read James 3:7-9. When is the last time your words hurt someone in this family? Apologize to that person now, then pray together that God will help you all control your tongues.

4. THE TONGUE CAN BE POISONOUS. JAMES 3:8B-12

8 It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. 10 From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so. 11 Does a spring pour forth from the same opening both fresh and salt water? 12 Can a fig tree, my brothers, bear olives, or a grapevine produce figs? Neither can a salt pond yield fresh water.

• Read Psalm 140:3. How did David describe the words of his enemies? Why is poison such a good analogy?

• James also used the analogy of a mixed stream. Read Revelation 3:15-16. What is the problem with being neither hot nor cold?

HOME22:6—Read Psalm 63:1-8. Instead of speaking poisonous words, let’s be a family that uses our tongue to praise God. What do you want to praise or thank God for today?

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• What are some practical ways to rely on the Spirit to control our tongues?

• Why do we have a tendency to look over or excuse things people say when we might be more willing to confront their other sins?

• How do we damage our witness by being loose with our mouths? Why must our talk match our walk, especially as Christians?

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60 JAMES Fall 2017


WHY WORDS ARE SO POWERFUL

GOD ON GOSSIP:

60 JAMES Fall 2017



BIBLE STUDY

1. REGARDING JUDGING: DON’T SPEAK EVIL ABOUT OTHERS. JAMES 4:11-12

11 Do not speak evil against one another, brothers. The one who speaks against a brother or judges his brother, speaks evil against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law but a judge. 12 There is only one lawgiver and judge, he who is able to save and to destroy. But who are you to judge your neighbor?

• “Criticism” is a pretty broad term. What types of speech come to mind when you think of criticism? Why should Christians avoid such speech? For example, gossip is dangerous because it discredits your kind or loving actions and makes people lose trust in you.

• Think about a time when you said something about someone, only to find out that you were mistaken later. What did you do when you realized you were wrong? Read Romans 12:14-21. What would have been a better way to handle this situation?

HOME22:6—Read James 4:11-12. What would you do if you found out someone was talking about you behind your back? Would that make it okay for you to say something bad about him or her? Why or why not?

62 JAMES Fall 2017

2. REGARDING BOASTING: DON’T BOAST ABOUT TOMORROW. JAMES 4:13-17

13 Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit”— 14 yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. 15 Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.” 16 As it is, you boast in your arrogance. All such boasting is evil. 17 So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.

• What type of control/planning was James speaking against? What are types of plans that we make, and how can we involve God in those plans?

• How many times have you experienced a circumstance that couldn’t have been planned? What does this teach us about the danger of boasting?

• James urged us to consider our lives “a mist”. What did he mean by this? How difficult is it for you to take on this perspective in your life?

• Read Proverbs 16:9. What should Christians do instead of boasting? How might this be practiced in your daily routine?

HOME22:6—Start a conversation with your kids by asking them what plans they have for next summer. Use this as an entry point to talk about boasting about the future. Use Proverbs 15:22 and 16:3, 9 as guides to talk about holy planning.


3. REGARDING SWEARING: LET YOUR WORD BE ENOUGH. JAMES 5:12

But above all, my brothers, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or by any other oath, but let your “yes” be yes and your “no” be no, so that you may not fall under condemnation.

• When James wrote “do not swear,” to what type of swearing was he referring?

• Read Matthew 5:34-37. Why do we think we need additional protections, such as “I swear to God”? How do we become the type of people whose word stands on its own?

HOME22:6—Read Proverbs 12:22. What are some ways we can work on being more honest and trustworthy?

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• How can we help and encourage one another to see God at the center of every word we speak? Is this something you struggle with? How can we help?

• Are you known as a person who speaks evil or speaks life? Ask others that know you how you measure up with “speaking evil” or “speaking life.”

• How could actively celebrating people lead to opportunities for you to share the grace of God with them? Who has modeled “speaking life” in your own life?

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66 JAMES Fall 2017


BELIEF WITHOUT ACTION IS NOT BELIEF

PART 1

66 JAMES Fall 2017



BIBLE STUDY

1. A WORKLESS FAITH IS NOT GOOD FOR THE BODY. JAMES 2:14-16

14 What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?

• The context of these verses is the service of the church. What are some of the good works the body of Christ is called to do?

• What do the questions in verse 14 imply about faith without works?

• Read 1 John 3:18. Why must our faith be lived out instead of something to which we give mere lip service?

• What illustration did James use in order to show the necessity of faith in the body of Christ? What impression does a workless faith give our community?

• In what ways should the witness of a local church be verified by their actions? What impression does a workless faith give to us? Our families?

HOME22:6—Read Matthew 25:35-40. What is one way we can help our church meet people’s physical needs?

BIBLE STUDY

68 JAMES Fall 2017

2. A WORKLESS FAITH IS NOT GOOD FOR YOU. JAMES 2:17

17 So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

• James said that faith without works is dead. What evidence does your faith give that is it alive?

• How are we sometimes guilty of being “all talk” when it comes to expressing our faith?

• Read Mark 10:45 and think about the example Jesus sets for us in the Gospels. What are some of the ways we should serve others that flow out from our faith, based on Jesus’ example of ministry?

HOME22:6—Read John 6:1-14. The boy in this story had five loaves of bread and two fish. What can you put to use in order to serve God and help Him in His work?


• Where are you meeting needs and showing your faith through action? Where could you grow in this area?

• How are we serving together as a group? Is the faith of our group a living, working faith?

• Imagine you are discipling a new believer. How would you teach him or her the connection between faith and works?

HOME22:6—Read James 2:14-17. What do you learn through serving others? How does it help you see the world from a different point of view?

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70 JAMES Fall 2017

JAMESDecember 3, 2017

BELIEF WITHOUT ACTION IS NOT BELIEF

PART 2

70 JAMES Fall 2017



BIBLE STUDY

1. FAITH WITHOUT WORKS IS DEAD. JAMES 2:14-17

14 What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? 17 So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

• Did anything change for you, or did you learn any new truths, as you reflected on James 2:14-17 this past week?

• Read James’s questions in verse 14 again. Can you relate (either at present or from your past) to the person described in these verses, one whose walk does not match his or her talk?

• How does the illustration in verses 15-16 help you understand the faith/works balance of the Christian life?

HOME22:6— Read a few of the following Scripture passages and discuss their meaning: Ephesians 2:8-10; Matthew 5:16; Hebrews 13:6; Colossians 3:23-24; John 6:28-29; Romans 2:6-10. Ask your kids to define “faith.” Ask them what faith looks like in practice.

B IBLE STUDY

72 JAMES Fall 2017

2. RESPONSES TO OBJECTIONS. JAMES 2:18-26

» Faith is demonstrated by works. James 2:18

» Believing right is not enough. James 2:18

» Faith without works is useless. James 2:20-26

18 But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. 19 You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder! 20 Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? 21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar? 22 You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works; 23 and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God. 24 You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone. 25 And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way? 26 For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead.

• How did Jesus demonstrate His faith? Why must our faith be measured against His standard? Read 1 John 2:6.

• Faith is demonstrated by works. Another way to say it is, real faith produces real fruit. Read Matthew 7:15-20. According to Jesus, what is “fruit”? How does this help us distinguish living faith from dead faith?


• Re-read verse 19. What was James saying? Why is belief in the right thing not enough?

• James used two Old Testament examples to strengthen the connections between faith and works. What do we learn about faith and works from both of these examples?

• What are some ways we overcomplicate the connection between faith and works?

HOME22:6—Read 1 John 2:6. The best measure of faith in action is the example Jesus gave us while He was on earth. Think about some of your favorite stories about Jesus. How did He put His faith into action? What would it look like for you to do the same, to walk as He walked?

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• What fruit have you noticed in your life lately?

• How does hearing about God and processing His truth with others help grow and nurture your faith?

• Do you know anyone who is trying to work his or her way to God, but has not demonstrated living faith? How might you engage that person in a conversation about the relationship between faith and fruit?

HOME22:6—One way to help children see your faith in action is by inviting them to serve with you. Ask your kids if there is a place or ministry area in which they would like to serve.

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76 JAMES Fall 2017


FIGHTING IN THE FAMILY

76 JAMES Fall 2017



BIBLE STUDY

1. IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM IN YOURSELF. JAMES 4:1-3

1 What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you? 2 You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. 3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.

• According to James, where do our fights come from? How does this square with your own experience?

• If you are honest, what inside of you causes you to squabble about inconsequential things?

• How quickly do you point the finger at someone else before looking at yourself intently?

• What happens to a church that harbors a lot of quarrels and fights?

• Look through Genesis 4:1-8. What led Cain to kill his brother? Why can we simply not afford to let jealousy and sinful desires continue unchecked (see verse 7)?

B IBLE STUDY

78 JAMES Fall 2017

• How would you respond to someone who chases sinful desires with excuses like, “Live and let live,” or “I’m just pursuing my own truth”?

HOME22:6 — Read Colossians 3:13. How should we respond if we have disagreements with a friend or family member? Why do people deserve our patience?

2. IDENTIFY THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEM: WORLDLINESS. JAMES 4:4-5

4 You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. 5 Or do you suppose it is to no purpose that the Scripture says, “He yearns jealously over the spirit that he has made to dwell in us”?

• Why do you think James called the people “adulterous?”

• How were the attitudes of the people aligned with the world instead of with God?

• How does Scripture help us fight against worldliness?

• Also, in what ways does God’s Spirit in you strengthen your faithfulness to the Lord?


HOME22:6—Read 2 Timothy 3:16-17. Why do we need the Bible to correct the worldly attitudes and desires at war within us? What verses might help?

3. THE SOLUTION: ACCEPT THE GRACE OF GOD. JAMES 4:6-10

6 But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” 7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded. 9 Be wretched and mourn and weep. Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you.

• How does grace respond to various types of conflict and covetousness?

• How do we get the grace to withstand the call of the world?

• How does humility cultivate intimacy with God and lead us to accept His grace in our lives? Think about how you have seen this proven true in your own life.

HOME22:6—Read James 4:10. Can you think of at least one specific relationship where more humility on your part would help nurture a better relationship? Pray for an opportunity to show humility to that person this week.

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• How do we keep our passions and ambitions in check and always seek to honor Jesus in all that we do? Why do we need the Spirit and each other to do this?

• How can you develop the types of relationships with other believers that allow them to speak into your life when they see you getting off track?

HOME22:6—Re-read James 4:1-10 together as a family. Which of the commands that James gave do you think is the easiest? Which is the hardest? Why?

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82 JAMES Fall 2017


FIGHTING FOR THE FAMILY

82 JAMES Fall 2017



BIBLE STUDY

1. SEEKING OTHERS LEADS TO SALVATION. JAMES 5:19-20A

19 My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, 20 let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.

• James used the word “wander” to describe the process of distancing ourselves from faith. When you think about wandering in general, what is involved and what images or examples come to mind? What does this teach us about the process of wandering from our faith?

• It is important to note that these verses are not about someone losing his or her salvation. They refer to those who never truly chose Jesus or believers who back-slide. Why is that distinction important for us to make?

• James wrote about people who wandered from “the truth.” What is “the truth”? How prepared do you feel to share this truth with others?

HOME22:6—Read James 5:19-20, and notice the important job God gives us to pursue those who wander from Him. Do you have any friends who have wandered away from God? How can you reach out to that person this week?

BIBLE STUDY

84 JAMES Fall 2017

2. SEEKING OTHERS COVERS SINS. JAMES 5:20B

19 My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, 20 let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.

• Why do people wander? What are some checkpoints can we put in place to help us avoid going down that path?

• How do we go about bringing people back when they wander from their faith?

• How do we ensure that when we seek the wanderer, the goal is restoration and not “I told you so’s”? As they come back, how should we treat them?

• Read 1 Peter 4:8 and Proverbs 10:12. What does it look like to practically love those who return after wandering?

HOME22:6—Read 1 John 1:9. Help your kids understand that when they have done wrong, God forgives them. Ask them how they know they need to ask God for forgiveness. Assure them He always grants requests for forgiveness.


• What potential hang-ups or fears do you have that would keep you from chasing after someone who has wandered from the faith? Work through these as a group.

• What should we do if someone who regularly attends this group wanders from the faith? Why can’t we assume that it will never happen to us?

• Does anyone have experience going after someone who walked away from the faith? What happened? Has anyone come up in your mind through last week’s sermon or our discussion? What can you do to take action, and how can we hold you accountable?

HOME22:6—Read the parable of the lost son in Luke 15 and point out the joy the father had when his son returned. How does it make you feel to know that God delights in you and wants a relationship with you?

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