1. As we have seen, James unfolds deep spiritual realities into practical, every day guidance. The basis for moral conduct, for the Christ follower, is the character and standard of God. Notice in 5:16, monetary wealth is scrutinized, particularly when: wages have been withheld (v. 4) and when people without opportunity and influence have been mistreated. What is your reaction to this? What do these verses tell us about God's perspective?
2. Section vv. 7-9 calls for patience as we wait for Jesus' return. One thing that is signalled out: no grumbling! Why do you think this is important? Do you tend to grumble, and if you do, how can you manage this tendency?
3. There is a powerful statement in v. 11, "The Lord is full of compassion and mercy." Within vv. 10-11, the context is perseverance. Which Old Testament figure is mentioned and how does James use this example?
4. What is the simple truth/command in v. 12? Why do we sometimes makes this unnecessarily complicated?
5. From 5:13-16, what are we invited to do when we are sick or in trouble?
6. In the translation you are reading, how does v. 16 describe the prayer of a "righteous person"? Will this truth help you to pray more and perhaps do so more boldly and with more faith?
If you have been reading and following along this week - well done! We begin the gospel according to Matthew next week:
Mon Apr 6 - Matthew 1
Tue Apr 7 - Matthew 2
Wed Apr 8 - Matthew 3
Thu Apr 9 - Matthew 4
Fri Apr 10 - Matthew 5