Category: James

Today we start in Peter's second epistle. The first letter was to help the church face the coming persecution, this one is to help the church face the onslaught of false teachers. Peter starts with a reminder that continued growth in Christian maturity and reliance on the supernaturally given scriptures are foundational. If you haven't … Continue reading 2 Peter 1

Peter closes out this epistle about suffering with a call to action. Elders are called to shepherd the flock. I think it is significant that the role of elders is given prominence particularly when the church is about to face suffering. When difficulties arise spiritual leadership is essential. Another prominent call to action in this … Continue reading 1 Peter 5

Change is hard. We like the ruts we get into. Especially when we are in that rut with friends who pressure us to staying the same rut with them. We also end up organizing our time to keep us in the rut. Our interests even follow along the same rut. Let's say, for example, you … Continue reading 1 Peter 4

I read this morning that the church in Afghanistan is preparing for a murderous onslaught. They are expecting that the Islamist Taliban rulers will do everything they can to wipe out the 5000 - 8000 Christians who are in the country. Similarly, Islamic forces across the middle-east have been emboldened in their snarling hatred of … Continue reading 1 Peter 3

As James closes out. Notice how he kind of hits a lot of different points in just a few verses. It is as if he has so much to say to them that he is trying to get it all out in a hurry. Isn't it great to have someone like that in your life? … Continue reading James Chapter 5 and 1 Peter 1

This is one of those pretty rare days where we are reading two chapters in James. We have another two-chapter day tomorrow. Hang in there. God guarantees His word has an impact in our lives. In today's reading we continue with James' theme about faith that works. On of the works of faith is a … Continue reading James Chapters 3 & 4

James is all about faith that works. The kind of faith that is not hidden but rather the kind that goes public. In today's reading faith that works is displayed publicly in two ways. First, it is an impartial sort of faith. Second, it is a faith that takes some risks. One question this chapter … Continue reading James Chapter 2

The book of James is all about the kind of faith that works itself out in a life of effectiveness and fruitfulness. This kind of effective and fruitful faith is forged in the fire of trials. So, in our reading today, the Spirit through James reveals the purpose of trials; the place of prayer; provides … Continue reading James Chapter 1