Day 3: Temptation vs Pure Religion
Read James 1:12-27
Context: How does James’ teaching about temptation (verses 12-18) connect with his earlier discussion of trials?
James is all about the distinctions. Trials are an opportunity to practice the steadfast nature of God. As we ask God for wisdom to endure those trials, we gotta be careful that we don’t reveal ourselves actually to be double-minded and having divided loyalties with the world. This theme of being careful about what’s actually going on in our hearts continues as we differentiate between what’s happening in a trial and what’s happening when we’re being tempted. It’s important to understand what’s going on, who is doing it, and the outcome of such actions. As we explore ourselves and check the circumstances we’re going through, we can make corrective decisions as necessary or rejoice in what God is doing through the trials we endure.
Content: What does James reveal about the nature and source of temptation, and how does he contrast this with God’s perfect gifts?
What’s very helpful about what James says is that he does not put the nature and source of temptation as either God or the devil. The source of temptation is us. It’s about those desires in us that prompt us to look at, consider, and ponder seriously what would lead us off the right path. We cannot blame it on the sunshine, we cannot blame it on the moonlight, we cannot blame it on the good time, and we cannot even blame it on the boogie; our hearts must conclude that we are to blame. Also, the nature of this temptation necessarily has deadly consequences. In direct contrast, what God is all about is the good stuff – indeed, all the good stuff comes from Him, it’s in His nature, it’s what He’s all about, and He’s not changing. And He’s doing that to His children because they’re precious to Him; they’re His offspring, and as such, He’s keen for them to reflect Him, which will have eternal life implications.
Concept: According to James, what constitutes “pure and faultless religion” (verse 27), and how does this relate to being “doers” rather than merely “hearers” of the word?
Three crucial factors mark pure and undefiled religion. Care for the orphans. Care for the widows. Poised not to be influenced and corrupted by the world. The connection with being doers of the word should be obvious. That is, when we focus on these things, our words – which are hopefully about them – will be reinforced and reflect the religion that God applauds. That is to say, we hear the word of God that reaches the poor, neglected, and counted out, transforming them into part of His family. We received that word, that’s why we’re a part of the family. Having heard that word and meditated on it, it’s no surprise that this is the word that we put into action as we go about tending to the needs of those who are poor, neglected and counted out. That’s the religion that God loves. And a part of that is how we’re not influenced or corrupted by the world – a system that encourages talking and not walking – complaining, criticising, marching, shouting and all manner of word-based activity with no action to reinforce their talk.
Conclusion: In what specific areas of your life do you need to move from hearing God’s word to actively doing it?
I endeavour to be more of a doer of God’s Word in every aspect of my life. Those aspects include my treatment of my family and friends, my commitment to the mission of God, and my integration of all of my life under the rule of God. That is also about how I’m keen to make inroads into understanding the town of Motherwell and what can be done to serve the needs that I see with what God has given me to serve them. That also includes making the most of the talents and gifts God has given me to be of service to others through the various means He gives me to make that difference.
Next Up – James – Day 4: The Sin of Favouritism
Read James 2:1-13
Context: What social and economic tensions within the early church might have prompted James to address favouritism so directly?
Content: How does James illustrate the problem of favouritism, and what reasons does he give for why this behaviour contradicts the gospel?
Concept: How does James connect showing favouritism with breaking God’s law, and what does he mean by the “royal law” (verse 8)?
Conclusion: Where in your own life, church, or community do you need to examine and address subtle forms of favouritism or prejudice?
Thank God for pointing out to us the difference between trials and our own foolish actions that lead to trouble. Thank God for a picture of pure religion that makes an earthly good because it’s heavenly-minded. That’s another reason to get the Word In so we can get the Word Out!
For His Name’s Sake
C. L. J. Dryden
Shalom
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