The book of James is one of my favorite New Testament books. It hasn't been as popular with great theologians across the centuries, however. Martin Luther called it "an epistle of straw." Even today, some argue against its inclusion in the biblical canon. The primary reason some have rejected this book is because upon a first reading it appears to oppose the core Christian belief of salvation by faith alone. But in my study of James I have found it fully supports the belief of salvation by faith alone, but helps us understand more clearly what faith really is about. Faith is not just a belief or a hope, faith must involve action. In the book of James we find descriptions of faith lived out in the flesh.
Beginning this Sunday I will be starting a new sermon series covering the book of James. We will examine the background, history, and purpose of this short epistle. More importantly though we will explore the major teachings of what faith looks like in our daily walk. As people of faith are pushed further onto the fringes of society it is becoming more difficult to live true faith filled lives. We are tempted to keep our faith to ourselves so as not to stand out too much. However, true faith demands we live it out in the flesh each and every day.
Pastor Lesly
