Title Mature Saints/James 1:1~11
Contents Mature saints/James 1:1-11
Key Verse: “My brethren, count it all joy when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the trial of your faith produces patience” (James 1:2-3)
The book of James is a sermon sent by letters to the scattered tribes of the twelve tribes with an undetermined recipient. It was written in Jerusalem around A.D. 50 by James, the brother of Jesus in the flesh. James was martyred while defending the Jerusalem church despite tribulation.
The theme of the book of James is 'mature saints' and 'complete saints', and I hope it will be an opportunity to listen to God's voice to us today through James.
First, you must become a perfect saint. This is also the theme of the book of James. What does a mature Christian life look like? The book of James is to keep oneself unstained by the world (1:27), to be consistent in word and deed (2:14), Those who do not make mistakes in their words (3:2), those who know how to fight the spiritual battle against the devil (4:7), and those who persevere in prayer during hardships (5:8) are called mature saints. Once you enter, your faith must mature.
Second, when you meet temptations, you must fully rejoice (1:2). Here is the secret of the book of James. James is not a letter to unbelievers, but to brothers who believe. Shall I bring That is, trials, tribulations, and hardships bring maturity in faith. “You know that the trials of your faith produce patience… so that ye may be complete and complete, lacking in nothing” (James 1:3,4).
How much suffering must these saints have when the book of James was written? It will not be comparable to today. Moreover, there must have been many trials for the comrades of faith scattered throughout Asia. In this field, James is preaching, “My brethren, when you meet various trials, count them all joy.” .
How should we educate our children? What will bring maturity? Will it remain only as a flower in a hotbed? Shouldn't it grow into a mature person who can overcome trials and hardships?
Third, we must ask in faith and do not have any doubts.
Trials, afflictions, and tribulations mean that 'I have reached my limit' and 'I cannot do it with my knowledge and strength'. Through these situations, I know my weakness. I find myself humble. Time is an opportunity for saints. Why? “Pray in faith… This is because it is an opportunity to approach the Almighty and the Creator. When you are in trouble, do not disguise yourself or make excuses and ask God. This is the path of a mature saint. and the book of James.
Prayer: Help me to become a mature saint who looks to the Almighty and rejoices in the face of trials and tribulations. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen
Lord's Prayer