James 1:1-8
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This is the first sermon in our term 3 series on the book of James. This sermon is “Real Faith: is Tested”.
Questions and going deeper resources
Small group questions
CONNECT: How could you model humility on your frontlines this week?
WARM-UP
- Amongst the most mature Christians that you know, do you know if they have experienced and persevered through suffering?
- What are the ways in which trials tend to make us either bitter or better? What is it dependent on?
Read James 1:1-4
- What do you know about the letter of James? Who is James? To whom does he write?
- What is significant about Jamesʼ transition from unbeliever to being a devoted Christian, significant church leader (in Jerusalem and beyond), and – eventually – martyr?
- What were the trials that were being faced by the recipients of the letters? What are the types of trials that we are likely to experience today?
- Is James saying that the bad things arenʼt really that bad? How is our response to trials what matters?
- Is the presence of trials a failure of faith? How can we hold grief and gratitude together?
- How can our response to trials actually be an opportunity to grow in Christian maturity?
- Can you think of any examples in your own life in which the way that you have responded to difficult circumstances has actually caused you to grow in Christian maturity?
Read James 1:5-8
- According to James, what is the power that enables us to face trouble?
- Who is the source of wisdom? What are the alternative sources that we sometimes run to?
- On what basis can we have security of receiving wisdom? How should this cause us to act
- What is meant by believing and not doubting? Why can we not be ʻdouble-mindedʼ?
- How has community helped you to respond to trials with godly wisdom? How could it?
- Have you ever asked for wisdom? Is there a challenge right now in which you need Godʼs wisdom?
APPLY: What is one area of challenge that you need to seek Godʼs wisdom?
Prayer
Gracious God, please help us – in the face of trials - to respond with a wisdom that comes from you. Please, would you be at work in your gentleness and mercy shaping us in your likeness, even amidst and through the suffering that we experience. In Jesusʼ Name, Amen.
Going deeper resources
On Your Frontline This Week: Have you ever asked a friend or colleague - do you think Jesus is a game changer? Maybe try it this week and invite them to the Public Lecture.
Listen, Watch, and Read:
- Listen: “Joy in Trials” by Mike Paget
- Listen: “Real Faith is Tested” by Paul Clarke
- Read: “The Gift of Suffering, Stress, and Opposition” by Dr Wei-Han Kuan
SERIES Resources:
- Series Overview: Booklet (and Audiobook)
- Commentary: James: The Wisdom of the Brother of Jesus (by John Dickson)
- Course: Introduction to James
- Video: Bible Project Overview of James
