The Layman's Guide to JAMES

James was a practical man. He had seen hypocrisy, in himself, in the Pharisees, in everyday Christians and he would have none of it. His letter to the early Christian churches is practical and convicting. He talks about heart Christianity worked out in actions. He discusses love and then insists that Christian love can’t just say compassionate words to the hungry, love must feed them. James was Jesus' brother, a son of Joseph and Mary. During Jesus ministry he was a sceptic, but eventually he became the lead pastor of the Church at Jerusalem and help set the tone for the entire emerging Christian movement. The Letter of James is one of those no-nonsense New Testament books. James tells it like it is with no holds barred. He doesn't seem concerned that he'll offend someone. He just says it. I've found that the Letter of James is a great place in which to mine and refine practical Christian living.