◄ James 2:4 ►
- (1) "Are ye not divided in your own mind?" so the Syriac and R.V., which would imply that this respect of persons showed...
- (2) "Do ye not make distinctions among yourselves?" R.V. margin; this gives an excellent sense, but is wanting in...
- (3) "Did you not doubt among yourselves?" this (doubt) is the almost invariable meaning of διακρίναομαι in the New...
Full Answer
What is the significance of James 1 2 2 4?
James 1:2-4. James calls the converted among the twelve tribes his brethren. Christianity has a great uniting power: it both discovers and creates relationships among the sons of men. It reminds us of the ties of nature, and binds us with the bonds of grace.
Who was James in the Bible and what does he mean?
Other men mentioned in the Bible named James include: · James, brother of John and son of Zebedee, the first apostle martyred and also known as James the Less ( Matthew 10:2, Mark 15:40, Acts 12:2 ). · James the son of Alphaeus, another of the twelve disciples ( Matthew 10:3 ).
What is verse 2 of the New Testament?
Verse 2. - My brethren. A favorite expression with St. James, occurring no less than fifteen times in the compass of this short Epistle.
What did James say about trials and obstacles?
To the contrary, James is saying that believers should (and can) see their trials not so much as obstacles but as opportunities, which when "leavened" with God's grace, prove to be "fertilizer" for growth in Christ-likeness.
What does the trying of your faith worketh patience mean?
In fact patience is the outcome of faithfulness, for it says in James 1:3, “The trying of your faith worketh patience.” There is absolutely no other way in which to gain patience. It has to come by the trial of our faith.
When you fall into divers temptations meaning?
Temptations come in many different forms. “Divers temptations” mean many different kinds. We're tempted to lie, cheat, steal, commit adultery, and murder, etc. A temptation puts to test what a Christian says they believe to find out if they really believe it.
What does it mean to be steadfast in the Lord?
Being steadfast means trusting the truth of God's Word over the say of any man. Being steadfast means being rooted and grounded in the Word throughout any season or circumstance. The measure of your steadfastness is proven over time.
What is pure joy in the Bible?
The biblical definition of joy says that joy is a feeling of good pleasure and happiness that is dependent on who Jesus is rather than on who we are or what is happening around us. Joy comes from the Holy Spirit, abiding in God's presence and from hope in His word.
What does it mean to let patience have its perfect work?
It's about facing problems with a sense of confidence that God, divine Truth, is always active and helping us gain a higher, more spiritual understanding of life – just as leaven helps the dough to rise. And when patience has “its perfect work,” the result is healing.
What is pure joy?
a source or cause of keen pleasure or delight; something or someone greatly valued or appreciated: Her prose style is a pure joy. the expression or display of glad feeling; festive gaiety. a state of happiness or felicity.
How do you keep your mind steadfast on the Lord?
10 Ways to Keep Your Mind Stayed on God#2: Read the Bible Consistently. ... #3: Spend Time with God in the Secret Place. ... #4: Pray in the Spirit Continually. ... #5: Thank God for Everything. ... #6: Sing Praise Often. ... #7: Pray for People as Often as You Can. ... #8: Spend Time with Born Again Believers. ... #9: Take Short Breaks to Focus on God.More items...
How do you get a steadfast heart?
A steadfast lady will remain resolute in her faith and convictions. Fixing her heart firmly upon the truths of God's Word....Remaining Steadfast Requires a Deepening of Our RootsKnow what we believe.Have a deep relationship with God.Have His Word written on the tables of our hearts.Utilize the power of prayer.
How do you become steadfast?
Someone can be steadfast in a belief, an effort, a plan, or even a refusal. Whatever it is, it means that the person will calmly hold firm to the chosen position and follow through with determination.
How do you know if God is pleased with you?
0:280:55How do I know if God is pleased with me? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipGod Almighty is pleased with you tonight. Just know that he's pleased with your ways please wouldMoreGod Almighty is pleased with you tonight. Just know that he's pleased with your ways please would because I'm sitting in church.
How do you be filled with the joy of the Lord?
How Do You Feel Joy in the Lord?Discover the Lord's Purpose for You. You are more than ordinary. ... Find Joy in Your Circumstances. One of the keys to finding joy is to recognize God's hand in your life, even during challenging moments. ... Remember That Joy Multiplies. ... Look for God in the Ordinary and Simple.
Why is joy so important to God?
Through that joy, they unlock a sense of purpose and hope which ultimately releases them from poverty. For God's children, the power of joy is never-ending. Although not one fruit of the spirit is more important than another, joy enables us to experience the others in the way that Jesus did.
What is the meaning of steadfastness in the Bible?
The Bible uses the word steadfast and it means to be firm and unwavering in your faith. As Christians, we should be firm in what we believe. If we are we won't allow ourselves to be moved when we face trials or difficulties. We will be steadfast and defend the Truth.
What does the Bible say about being steadfast and unmovable?
“Therefore, I would that ye should be steadfast and immovable, always abounding in good works, that Christ, the Lord God Omnipotent, may seal you his, that you may be brought to heaven, that ye may have everlasting salvation and eternal life, through the wisdom, and power, and justice, and mercy of him who created all ...
How do you remain steadfast in your faith during trying times?
How To Keep Your Faith Up—Even When Life Is DifficultPray. Ask God, the universe, or whatever higher force you believe in for the strength to love to your full potential. ... Be generous to others. ... Get inspired. ... Surround yourself with people you admire. ... Get the ball rolling first thing in the morning.
What are the benefits of being steadfast?
They lead with heart and grit, and understand they were born for success in whatever they are purposed to do. Collaborative – Anyone who is steadfast, prefers to work collaboratively than alone. It's not that they can't work alone, it's that they understand the benefits of teamwork.
James 1:2-4, Part 2 (Why does God Allow Problems?)
These are my notes from a sermon series I did through the book of James. It has not been proofed for spelling or grammatical errors. I present it to you as-is. Continue reading
James 1:2-4, Part 1 (Why Does God Allow Problems?)
These are my notes from a sermon series I did through the book of James. It has not been proofed for spelling or grammatical errors. I present it to you as-is. Continue reading
What is the Jam 1:12?
Jam 1:2-12. Exhortation in reference to the endurance of temptations.
When ye fall into, what is the meaning of "all joy"?
So allis taken, 1 Timothy 1:15. When ye fall into; when ye are so beset and circumvented by them, that there is no escaping them, but they come upon you, though by the directeth of God’s providence, yet not by your own seeking.
Is there a condition of life that hinders rejoicing in God?
No condition of life is such as to hinder rejoicing in God. Those of low degree may rejoice, if they are exalted to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom of God; and the rich may rejoice in humbling providences, that lead to a humble and lowly disposition of mind. Worldly wealth is a withering thing.
What does James say about faith?
Supernaturally, faith is built in us as we hear, understand, and trust in God’s word. iii. James did not want anyone to think that God sends trials to break down or destroy our faith; therefore, he will come back to this point in James 1:13-18.
What is the book of James like?
In some ways, the Book of James is like the Book of Proverbs or other Old Testament wisdom literature, and it can jump from topic to topic and back again to a previous topic.
What does "Greetings from James" mean?
1. (1) A Greeting from James. James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad: Greetings. a. James: There are several men named James mentioned in the New Testament, but reliable tradition assigns this book to the one called James the Just, the half-brother of Jesus ( Matthew 13:55) ...
What is the true embodiment of the inward principles of religion?
“The Biblical Ritualism, the pure external worship, the true embodiment of the inward principles of religion is to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep ourselves unspotted from the world. Charity and purity are the two great garments of Christianity.” (Spurgeon)
What does James call his firstfruits?
ii. James may refer to his own generation of believers when he calls them firstfruits, especially as being mainly written to Christians from a Jewish background. The fact that these Christians from a Jewish background are firstfruits ( Deuteronomy 26:1-4) shows that James expected a subsequent and greater harvest of Christians from a Gentile background.
What does James say about the crown of life?
d. The crown of life which the Lord has promised: James reminds us that it really is worth it to endure under the temptations we face. Our steadfastness will be rewarded as we demonstrate our love for Jesus ( to those who love Him) by resisting temptation.
What did Martin Luther write about James?
It does not expound human doctrines, but lays much emphasis on God’s law.” (Cited in Barclay) v. Martin Luther knew and taught exactly what the book of James teaches.
What does James 1:2-4 mean?
Before we end I want you to hear James 1:2-4 paraphrased in The Message (on your screen there is a different translation), “Consider it a sheer gift, friends, when tests and challenges come at you from all sides. You know that under pressure, your faith-life is forced into the open and shows its true colors. So don’t try to get out of anything prematurely. Let it do its work so you become mature and well-developed, not deficient in any way” (Msg).
When troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy?
For you know that when your faith is tested….” Let’s stop right here and focus on this word “tested” (dokimion). This word “tested” has two aspects to its meaning. It’s important that you understand this so that you have a better understanding of what’s happening within your test.
Who wrote that James uses my brethren?
Poole writes that James uses my brethren …
When all kinds of trials and temptations crowd into your lives my brothers, don't resent them as answer?
Phillips: When all kinds of trials and temptations crowd into your lives my brothers, don't resent them as intruders , but welcome them as friends! ( Phillips: Touchstone)
What does the Bible say about joy?
There is a joy that Scripture commands. That joy is action that can be engaged in regardless of how the person feels. Proverbs 5:18 ( note) tells the reader to rejoice in the wife of his youth, without reference to what she may be like. Christ instructed his disciples to rejoice when they were persecuted, reviled, and slandered ( Mt 5:11 +, Mt 5:12 + ). The apostle Paul commanded continuous rejoicing ( Phil 4:4 +; 1Th 5:16 + ED: Calling for continuous dependence on the Holy Spirit to obey these commands in the present imperative ). ( Elwell, W. A., & Beitzel, B. J. Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible. Grand Rapids, Mich.: Baker Book House)
What is joy in the Bible?
The Bible uses joy in both senses. Joy is a feeling called forth by well-being, success, or good fortune. A person automatically experiences it because of certain favorable circumstances. It cannot be commanded. The shepherd experienced joy when he found his lost sheep ( Mt 18:13 ). The multitude felt it when Jesus healed a Jewish woman whom Satan had bound for 18 years ( Lk 13:17 + ). The disciples returned to Jerusalem rejoicing after Jesus’ ascension ( Lk 24:52 + ). Joy was also the feeling of the church at Antioch when its members heard the Jerusalem Council’s decision that they did not have to be circumcised and keep the Law ( Acts 15:31 + ). Paul mentioned his joy in hearing about the obedience of the Roman Christians ( Ro 16:19 + ). Ps 137:3 (Spurgeon's Note) shows that the emotion cannot be commanded. The Jews’ captors wanted them to sing in the land of their exile, something they were unable to do. Faraway Jerusalem was their chief joy ( Ps 137:6 - Spurgeon's Note ).
What does "blessed are those who persecuted" mean?
Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven (Jesus is not saying persecution earns us heaven but that the fact that we are persecuted for the sake of His Name is strong proof that we belong to Jesus and not to this world). Blessed are you when men cast insults at you, and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, on account of Me (Why are we blessed? Read on… ). Rejoice, ( present imperative = make this your continual, habitual practice) and be glad ( present imperative = make this your continual, habitual practice), for your reward in heaven is great (Not just that you have a "reward" but that the reward is even "great"! What encouragement this truth should be for suffering saints!), for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. ( Mt 5:10, 11, 12 - see notes)
Who said not all of us understand the meaning and purpose of temptation?
J R Miller - Not all of us understand the meaning and purpose of temptation. We think of it as an effort of Satan to destroy us.
Who is the apostle of faith?
There is room for James as well as for Paul and John. Paul is the apostle of faith, John of love, Peter of comfort, but James is the apostle of good works, the apostle of practical living. He stands in the New Testament very much as the book of Proverbs stands in the Old.
What did James say about trials?
He did not advocate a masochistic attitude that unnaturally rejoices in painful experiences. Rather he commanded them to view their trials as profitable even though unpleasant. Another translation of "all joy" can be "pure joy." The opposite would be "some joy" along with much grief. The attitude James advocated can take all the bitterness out of even very uncomfortable trials. Regardless of the source of our difficulties-the world, our flesh, or the devil-we can and should be glad as we go through them. The reason follows.
What is the purpose of the epistle of James?
The main object of that epistle was to consummate the breach of the old relationships of such Christians as were Jews in times past, and to lead them out definitively from all earthly connection into their heavenly association with Christ.
What does the Bible say about patience?
"My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing."- - James 1:2-4
How many times does James say "my brethren"?
My brethren ... This expression occurs "sixteen times" [11] in the book of James, absolutely demanding that the letter be accepted as Christian. When James wrote, secular Israel had long ago hardened into unyielding opposition to Christianity; and there is no way to suppose that the racial Jews of the Dispersion are meant by this repeated appeal to "my brethren." If James had been directed to the Diaspora, it most certainly would have included a section hailing Jesus Christ as the Messiah; but the addressees of this epistle were already Christians.
What does the Lord afflict us with?
The Lord then afflicts us in various ways, because ambition, avarice, envy, gluttony, intemperance, excessive love of the world, and the innumerable lusts in which we abound, cannot be cured by the same medicine.
How many times does the phrase "My brethren" appear in the Bible?
My brethren -- written to Christians. A favorite expression with James and occurs no less than fifteen times in this short epistle.
Where is "all" in the Bible?
all -- "All” is placed first in the Greek text for emphasis. In James the trials are not joy, but their possible results are (cf. Matthew 5:10-12; Luke 6:22-23: Acts 5:41; Romans 5:3; 1 Thessalonians 5:16; 1 Peter 1:6 ).
Why are all these explanations untenable?
All these explanations are untenable, because they proceed upon a meaning of διακρίνεσθαιforeign to the usage of the N. T. Besides, several require arbitrary completions, and many do not correspond to the context. Brückner, de Wette, and Wiesinger have also here correctly maintained the meaning to doubt.
What does Gill say about the entire Bible?
Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible. Are ye not then partial in yourselves,.... That is, guilty of such partiality as must appear to yourselves, and your own consciences must accuse you of; or do not ye distinguish, or make a difference among yourselves, by such a conduct, towards the rich and the poor: .
Are you not partial in yourselves?
Are ye not then partial in yourselves? Either, are ye not judged in yourselves, convicted by your own consciences of partiality, and accepting men’s persons? Or, have ye not made a difference? viz. out of a corrupt affection rather than a right judgment; and then it falls in with our translation; Are ye not partial? The Greek word is used in this sense, Acts 15:9Judges 1:22.
Is "doubt" a verb in the New Testament?
Wrong. The constant sense of the verb in the New Testament is doubt, except Acts 11:2; Jde 1:9, where it means dispute. Compare James 1:6. The meaning here is, therefore, that, in making a distinction between the rich and the poor, they expressed a doubt concerning the faith which they professed, and which abolished such distinctions. Hence, Rev., rightly, Are ye not divided in your own mind?
What does James 1:2 mean?
Answer. In some English translations of the Bible, James 1:2 contains the clause count it all joy. It is the first command James gives in his epistle; to understand what he means by it, we must look at the full passage and surrounding verses: “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, ...
What does James say about trials?
James wants believers to know to expect “trials of various kinds” ( James 1:2) in the Christian life. We should be prepared and not caught off guard when a sudden trial comes upon us. Trials are part of the Christian experience. Jesus told His disciples, “In this world you will have trouble” ( John 16:33 ). Typically, a trial is not an occasion ...
Why does James encourage Christians to embrace trials?
They promote joy because they produce holiness in the life of steadfast believers. James encourages Christians to embrace trials not for what they presently are, but for the outcome God will accomplish through them. James 1:12 promises, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, ...
What does James say about counting joy?
When James says to “count it all joy,” he encourages his readers to evaluate the way they look at trials. He calls believers to develop a new and improved attitude that considers trials from God’s perspective. James wants believers to know to expect “trials of various kinds” ( James 1:2) in the Christian life.
What did Joseph say to his brothers?
Joseph was able to see God’s sovereign hand in it all. Mature and complete, Joseph spoke these words of forgiveness to his brothers: “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives” ( Genesis 50:19–20 ). James 1:4 says a believer who perseveres through trials is made “perfect.”.