The Epistle of James - PowerPoint Slides

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Don't forget to read and reread the entire book as often as you can. Make use of the audio and paragraph format on the "Lessons" page.

Slide Two

Noted as a “General” epistle because it is not written to a specific person such as Philemon, Titus, Timothy; or to a specific church or group of churches such as those in Galatia, Ephesus, Colossae, Philippi, Corinth, Rome, etc.

James is a distinctive epistle because it is an inspired epistle written by James under the direct inspiration of the Holy Spirit as taught in II Timothy 3:16 and II Peter 1:20-21. It is distinctive because of its purpose to educate, exhort, and enlighten God's people. Because it is inspired it commands us and guides us authoritatively.

This epistle is an extremely practical book for all believers of every age. Its relevance speaks to and about the faith of the regenerate believer.

Slide Three

Our study plan will begin by using the biographical method. This is a focus on the author and individuals listed within the epistle. Study each of the names listed on slide three. Ask questions such as: Why are their names mentioned? What does the author direct us to in this persons life? Think of some other questions you can ask.

The historical study will emphasize the actual time frame in which the book was written. The time frame could be three possible dispersions noted in 1) John 7:35; 2) Acts 8:1-4; or 3) Acts 18:2. Study each event and how they might be applicable to the epistle of James.

The topical study will focus on those topics that will be of primary interest to you. Topics listed could be; faith, works, trials, patience, sin, truth, prayer, etc.. Don't forget to define the word as it is used in the context. See how it relates to the overall theme of the epistle also.

Slide Four

This slide shows our plan of study in using the synthetic method. This method should be given priority because through reading and rereading you can see how the main theme of the book is exposed. The theme can be developed or expanded by using the paragraph form of the epistle. Use the paragraph as your main area of study and as your primary source for you outline.

In the use of the rhetorical method we focus on the figures of speech found within the epistle. James uses words and phrases such as those found in 1:6; "like a wave of the sea" or 1:8, "a double minded man" or 1:23, "he is like unto a man..." See how many you can find and why they are used. We will limit our study to look for similes, metaphors, metonymies, a synecdoche, or any hyperbole.

The devotional study will be the most personal for you. What does that passage or verse say to me personally? How can I relate this truth to me? How might I integrate this truth into my daily walk with the Lord? Is this a passage that can be made applicable to my personal life?

Slide Five

This slide lays out the final portion of our plan of study. Under this heading we will be looking at my own personal outline of the book. Rather than being an exhaustive study I will attempt to set forth a summary of the substance of the book. Within that study we will try to make an observation of the practical applications of the book for our lives. This book is not outdated nor is it confusing.

Slide Six

Our first focus will be on James, the author or the human instrument that God used to pen this epistle. There are several characters in the Bible with the name James. Read some of the commentaries and discover for yourself the conflict over the identity of which James wrote this letter.

There is no dispute as to the identification of Abraham. His name is listed in James 2:21 and 2:23 with reference to the story in Genesis chapter 22.

Isaac is mentioned as part of the story of Abraham so not a lot of time will be given to why James uses his name.

Rahab is mentioned in James 2:25 and is also used in relation to the story of Abraham and Isaac. Be sure and read her story in Joshua and Hebrews 11:31.

When you look for Job see how James uses him in chapter 5 and verse 11. Also note the purpose and character he brings to the forefront.

The last biographical character study will be Elijah. He is found in James 5:17. Relate James' use of Elijah to the story found in I Kings 17 and the comment in Luke 4:25.

Slide Seven

Which James? The suggestions as to the identities of all the James’ of the N. T. are endless when you get into the author of this epistle. There are at least two men if not three that we can consider as really possible authors. Of those it seems only two are the more logical. It depends on whether you hold to James the son of Alphaeus being the same as the brother of the Lord or if you make a fourth James; making the brother of the Lord separate from the other the son. .

You need to know the two James' most likely to be the author. The first is James the Great – Matthew 4:21. He is called the great to distinguish from James the “little” or less, mentioned in Mark 15:40; possibly he was of larger stature or older. He was the brother of the Apostle John, commonly called the evangelist Matthew 10:2. He was also a partner with the Apostle Peter in the fishing industry, Luke 5:10. He was present at the transfiguration of Jesus – Mat. 17:1. Nicknamed the sons of thunder Mar. 3:17. He was of the chosen twelve, or apostles Mar. 3:14. His life was ended when he was murdered by Herod in Acts 12:2.

The second and most likely the author was James the less Mark 15:40. He was also one of the twelve apostles Mat. 10:3; Acts 1:3. He was also the brother of the Lord Gal. 1:19, I Cor. 15:7; Acts 9:27; Mark 6:3, The son of Alphaeus Mat. 10:3 and Mark 3:18; was probably a cousin of the Lord's. He was not a physical child of Joseph and Mary but seems to be the child of Mary's sister-in-law who was married to Cleopus (John 19:25) another name for Alphaeus) who could have been Joseph's older brother. It may be confusing to study all the possibilities but ultimately God is the author, the book is inspired, and it is very practical.

Slide Eight

After looking at the biography of James we turn our attention to the mention of Abraham. We don't have to wonder about the identity here. The verses are James 2:21 and 23. The subject is saving faith or real faith. The context goes from verse 14 to verse 26 and begins with a question that exposes the subject matter. Understanding this also helps us see there isn't any contradiction between what James is teaching and what Paul taught in Romans and Galatians. If one keeps on saying he has faith, but keeps on having no works, can that faith be real?

The man used as an example is the esteemed Abraham, the father of our faith. Here is a man who exposes a faith that is obedient to the commands of God and rests in the word of God. God showed him the stars and made and promise and Abraham believed God. God commanded him to offer his son upon and altar and his faith acted upon God's word.

The message exposes the exercise of faith. There is no contradiction with the passages in Romans. It helps us see not who justifies us but what type of faith is that which justifies us with God. This saving faith was confirmed, made known, and gives testimony of itself by its actions. Keeping it all in context James tells us that if you tell yourself you have faith and yet that faith is not accompanied with actions, your faith is not of a divine origin.

Slide Nine

The verse is James 2:21. The mention of Isaac is more of an incidental reference because he is the substance of Abraham’s offering. His faith, his actions are not actually under consideration here

The Man is found in Gen. 22:16 “And said, By myself have I sworn, saith the LORD, for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son:” Isaac was a young man capable of resisting Abraham’s efforts.

The Message is that the action of offering Isaac gave Abraham acceptance or justification with God. Or was it his belief? These are two very different acts that have been brought to our attention. One act is that of Abraham believing God and leaving his home not knowing where he was going, and seeing the stars and hearing the promise of God and believing his promise. The second act is that of offering his son on the altar as God commanded. Gen. 15:6; 22:16 the first has reference to God, the second has reference to man. The first had reference to God’s promise and power the second to God’s prerogative and power; the prerogative is the right to command Abraham to offer his son Isaac was the test of Abraham. Abraham's faith was active. Is yours?

Slide Ten

In this slide we see the verse giving reference to Rahab which is James 2:25. You can find more of her story in Joshua chapters 2 and 6, as well as Heb. 11:31.

Why mention the woman at all? She is quite a contrast from Abraham. She was a Gentile, a woman, a harlot, and part of a condemned city ready for destruction. Certainly she is not the esteemed person Abraham was and is to us all. Yet, she is mentioned and held up as an example.

The message is found in the words "likewise." She has faith in common with Abraham. The people are difference, the actions are different and yet the faith is the same. Man is justified by faith alone, but faith that justifies is never alone. Thomas Manton tells us that apples do not give life to the tree but expose the life that exists in the tree. It isn't about who you are or how esteemed you may be. You say you have faith now explain how you can justify such a statement when there are no actions, no activity that accompanies your profession?

Slide Eleven

The Mention - Job is mentioned in James 5:11. The context takes you back to at least verse seven. Job is almost a minor mention here because he is introduced along with the prophets of Israel who suffered affliction and are used as an example of patience. When James uses the phrase "ye have heard" he is pointing to the place of prominence of the story of Job. It is a commonly heard story but it is interesting to note that Job is only mention in two books outside of the book of Job. Twice in Ezekiel and once here in James. What James does do is show Job is real, a valid and valuable character worthy of our attention and study.

The Man under consideration is of course Job. What we do know of Job must then be found in his story of trial, tribulation and restoration. He was a well known man who was blessed immeasurably. Job 1:3 calls him the greatest man in the East. He was rich, successful in business and he was considered by God to be upright, a spiritual man. His trouble was as immense as his wealth. He became putrid with sores, the worse possible breath, contemptible, and repulsive. That doesn't even begin to speak of the loss of family that brought terrible pain to his heart.

The Message of James in using Job is to note his patience. His ability to endure or to bear up under all the terrible tragedies of his life. The focus is on how faith, real faith, saving faith, is accompanied with the ability to persevere and remain trusting in God no matter what. Read what happened. He wasn't sinless, but his faith was evident by his actions. He continued to trust God and was blessed in the end.

Slide Twelve

The Mention of Elijah takes place in James 5:17-18. He is referencing a particular event in the life of Elijah when he prayed that it might not rain for three years until he prayed again that it might rain. Look up and read the full story in I Kings 17 and 18. Get a handle on the full story and his struggle through these three years.

The Man was a prophet of God. But James tells us that he was a man of passions just like us. He wasn't a super human being. He was a passionate man, a praying man and he was a persevering man. He had his struggles and showed his emotions. Those three years were both a wonder of experiences and terrible in their experience. Elijah is worthy of our study time to become more familiar with him as a man.

The Message from Elijah again has to do with patience or perseverance, but here it is perseverance in prayer. James doesn't point to his being a prophet as to why he persevered in prayer. It was his faith, the faith that we have if we are regenerate, that conquered his trials, overcame his difficulties, and strengthened his trembling heart. Note how many times he prayed that it would rain again in I Kings 18:44; seven times. Why did he pray? Because the word of the Lord came to him. Why not just ask once and forget it? Faith perseveres, it is active, it never quits believing or acting on God's promises.

Slide Thirteen

This slide is simply an introduction to our next weeks study and to encourage you to do some homework. The primary focus should be on the final two points listed as the "Dispersed" and the "Dispersion." I want to encourage you to do some research to find out what you can about this current time when James wrote this epistle. Don't worry about finding the exact time frame, be generous in your calculations and note the time frames of the three dispersions listed in John 7:35; Acts 8:1; and Acts 18:2. You might not find much but your studies should give you some idea about the lives of those to whom James was writing. You will probably find some who wonder if those written to were Jews or Gentiles and whether they were believers or unbelievers. It should be clear that the Bible is written by inspiration and James tells us his subject is about a faith that works, that it has a focus on those connected to Israel or the twelve tribes. Take it from there and see what you can find. Enjoy your study and we will see you on Wednesday, June 18th.

Slide Fourteen

When you study a book for it's historical and or geographical content there are internal evidences that should be noted before you begin to study outside sources. The dispersion that is mentioned in James 1:1, is a reference made to those of Israel that had been dispersed from Jerusalem. The familiar term dispersion mentioned in John 7:35 takes into account those Jews who had failed to return to Palestine after serving as slaves throughout Babylon and Mesopotamia. Other regions are included as well as considering those who had been driven from their homes by Saul as he made havoc of the church at Jerusalem.

They were Jewish believers that found communities unsympathetic to their culture and their faith. They encountered trials and tribulations in their locations.

When James uses the word assembly in 2:2 he does not use the Greek word "ecclesia" but the word for synagogue. This shows an early use of the facilites available rather than building their own meeting houses at this time.

Seating customs points to the Jewish manners of seating guests. The mention of the term "royal law" or law of all laws show a connection or influence of the Roman community and culture. The use of agriculture terms, centers of commerce and the familiarity with irrigation systems vs. the latter rains all point to a general time and place in history.

Slide Fifteen

Taking note of John 7:35 and the mention of the dispersion should have caused Israel to remember their own history and God's judgment against them. This was a time of transition from using a nation to maintain the oracles of God, the message of God and even the people of God, to using another Earthly institution the churches of God. A material prepared, spiritual, and gathered by God, commissioned by God, and empowered by God. That dispersions speaks of the trials and tribulations of God's elect and yet reminds us of the promise of God's word of the return and restoration of Israel in a future kingdom.

Slide Sixteen

In our studies through Galatians we introduced the rhetorical method of study and one part made reference to the forms of speech. James uses a synecdoche when he uses the term the "twelve tribes" which is simply referring to Israel as a whole.

Babylon and Mesopotamia are well known areas with a lot of Biblical history. Some of the other regions we could note are mentioned in Acts 2:9-11, where you have an actual listing of those dispersed Israelites coming back to Jerusalem for Pentecost.

Without getting into a lot of detail A. T. Robertson, in his book on the Epistle of James does a great job of placing the time of writing this book at around 48 to 49 AD and just previous to the Jerusalem Council in Acts 15:1-29. This would then include the persecution carried out by Saul and much of the historical accounting could be traced from Acts chapter 8 to acts chapter 15.

Slide Seventeen

In this slide and the next two we are simply introducing possible "Topics" for our study next week. These are simply suggestions. I would encourage you to read through the epistle again and take note of the topics that grab your interest. Remember that as you study a topic you first want to define that topic. Secondly you want to see how it is used in the epistle and if it is used differently elsewhere. How does James relate this topic to the theme of faith or works? What is the point of bringing it up and how does the topic relate to the practical life of a believer? Each of the words in the slide give you an initial verse of where to begin if you are having difficulty selecting a topic.

Slide Eighteen

How does James develop the thought of Good works? Does this topic conflict with Paul's teaching about justification in Romans and Galatians? In what way us James using the term justification?

A great topical study would be to find out what James says about the tongue and what he means by this term. How does it relate to other uses in the Bible and can you find a primary principle that James is giving to his readers.

Wisdom and the source and use of wisdom would be a great topic to trace through this epistle and relate it to other passages which speak of both divine and earthly wisdom.

Slide Nineteen

Our final slide for the evening gives three suggestions for a topical study. What is lust? What does James define it as in the context in which it is used? How can this be related our our lives in our community of believers, our church, our prayer life, and our friendships?

What about business practices and wealth? What is James' subject and why does he mention it here in chapter five?

The last suggestion might be to look at prayer and how James defines its use, its power, and its place? Choose one or several and enjoy your study. Come prepared to share your findings.

Slide Twenty

These slides represent Lesson Five which deals with the "Topical Method of Study in the Epistle of James.

The first slide deals with the topic of faith. These are just examples. A more thorough study should be conducted on your own. There are also several other topics which could be included.

The simple definition of faith explains it as a conviction about a presented fact being the truth. I trust what the fact without hesitation. I am persuaded of its trustworthiness. I am satisfied with its veracity and I feel assured of it as truth.

In a biblical context faith and in the Epistle of James we are talking about a saving faith versus an intellectual faith. A. W. Pink has an excellent work entitled "Saving Faith" which is worth reading on this subject.

Through out the Epistle of James we see faith tried, glorified, justified, expressed, exercised, etc.. Study each use of the word and gain the wisdom from the Word about real saving faith.

Slide Twenty-One

In this slide I tried to draw out a simple study of works as James uses the topic. Defining works means labor, our deeds, our doings. Within the context of James it has to do with our effort, our life force, our energy and as an example of our spiritual life.

James shows it as a missing part, it is absent, and what it means when it is absent. He also shows how works are always maneuvering. By that I mean faith is always manifesting itself, showing itself or maneuvering itself into an action.

Slide Twenty-Two

The topic of lust in the Epistle of James must first be defined. It means our cravings, our desires and can be towards either evil or good.

When James writes of lust in this context it refers to the longings, the sensual delights we have; to hotly desire or even to dote upon something we want.

James exposes the delusion of lust by showing us that it promises one thing and gives us another in 1:14-15. In James 4:1, 3, he shows us that the delight of lust is personal satisfaction. In verse 2 he shows us the passion of lust or the extent to which lust will go to fulfill its longings, even to the destruction of others. The intensity of lust is certain and takes divine assistance to master.

Slide Twenty-Three

Slide Twenty-Four

Slide Thirty-Four

The Rhetorical method of study is searching for the figures of speech the author uses to emphasize or to illustrate.

The Metaphor is a figure of speech that illustrates a comparison. I'm not sure you could use 2:3 and the term "under my footstool" as a metaphor strictly according to the rules. But it is a figurative use of language meaning beneath me or beneath my feet.

James 3:6, uses the descriptive language of the tongue being a fire, a world of iniquity, the course of nature. In 3:8 he calls the tongue an unruly evil and full of deadly poison.

In each case he draws a striking figure for us to consider and meditate upon.

Slide Thirty-Five

The simile is similar in nature to the metaphor but makes the explicit comparison by the use of "like" or "as."

In 1:6 we find a man being compared to a wave that is tossed around by the wind. Pushed, pulled, unstable, or a restless individual who has no stability at all.

In 1:10 the rich man's life, its brevity, is compared to that of the soon passing grass that withers, dries and fades into oblivion.

Look at each of the remaining comparisons and draw from it the illustrations that James is bringing to our minds.

Slide Thirty-Six

The use of the hyperbole is a purposeful exaggeration. E.W. Bullinger uses 3:6 and the phrase "world of iniquity" as an expression of an adornment or an ornament. The tongue is an adornment of iniquity, it is something that makes sin appear innocent. I think most of us are aware of how we attempt to justify any and all personal actions.

In 4:1 we find the word wars. This is an intended exaggeration for us to consider how he is emphasizing the everyday arguments of life lived together. They have a much greater destructive force than we naturally give to them.

Slide Thirty-Seven

The idea of a metonymy is using one name or noun for the use of another. It speaks more of relation than it does of resemblance.

Criticism can be made against our first two examples in 3:5 and 1:17. Bullinger makes the statement in 1:17 a heterosis or an exchange.

The remaining examples are self explanatory and show how a word is used in exchange for others or another. The context will easily supply the sense to be give.

Slide Thirty-Eight

Discovering the use of synecdoche shows a connection of association. Technically the difference between the metonymy (two related nouns) and synecdoche (two related ideas) are not that far apart.

In 1:27 it helps to see other passages such as Ex. 22:21; Deut. 10:18 and 27:19. In these verses we find that we are being given a picture that we are not to afflict the helpless, or defenseless individuals.

In 2:10 the emphasis is discernable more in the Greek use of the word "hostis" and is best translated by "anyone who" or some out of all.

In 3:6 "whole body" does not constrain us to mean only our physical body, but enlarges our understanding to our entire being.

In 3:8, the word "peace" must be enlarged to comprehend the impact James is sharing with us. Peace is not just an inner rest or spirit of tranquility, but a rich enjoyment of the blessings from the Lord. It is a reference to an attitude and activity accompanied with that attitude. They cultivate reconciliation.

Slide Thirty-Nine

In this final slide of figures of speech I just wanted to show you there are more than we have been able to talk about in this lesson. E. W. Bullinger's "Figures of Speech" lists 56 different cases in just these five chapters.

As an example I wanted to show you two. The first is called an adjournment which is taking an epithet used with a name after the reason for using such an epithet has passed away. Rahab is no longer a harlot, but it used for emphasis to show a change of character.

The second is called an interchange. You'll need to look this one up for yourself for a better understanding. It has more to do with grammatical construction. In our case (3:4) it emphasizes the will or impulse of the pilot.

Slide Forty

Our final slide for this evening is our homework for the following week of study. Here we want you to begin your focus on the Devotional method. Read carefully, slowly and listen to the Holy Spirit and see what He causes us to focus on or draws our attention to. As you read collect the data, verses, or thoughts to which you are drawn.

Then begin to ask how this verse, or the truths you see can be integrated into your life. How can they be made applicable to me? Are there commands, suggestions, implications that need to be made? The truth must be seen as valuable for some aspect of our lives either now or for future reference if any meaningful attachment can be made.

Slide Forty-One

In the devotional study on James we want to make it as personal and practical as we possibly can. Dependence upon the leadership and discernment of the Holy Spirit is an absolute must. Read and listen for that still small voice. Ask questions that are personal. An unwillingness to be honest with yourself and with God will not be productive.

As an example I've given you an 5 ideas of how you might approach your study in this section. Each topic is designed to be used on the entire book. I am illustrating them only one per chapter.

The first might be called my "personal consideration." What thoughts from this chapter stand out as you read them? What words, ideas, principles, or phrases draw your attention? If there are none, just move on. What you do find, take note of that fact and the verse it came from. I noticed James calling himself a "servant" in verse one; and using it in a way that to him was an honor. James claim as servant was more honoring to him that being considered the Lord's physical brother. I also noticed the way or attitude in which James calls for me to recognize the trials I encounter; consider them with great joy! I also noticed the wealthy resources God has when it comes to wisdom. If I lack understanding and how to apply the information I have obtained I go to God in faith. The specific reality that I took note of in verses 12 through 17 is about my lust, my desires, the source of most of my troubles. Lastly under personal considerations I noted that I can be a forgetful hearer, or reader. I knew that, or know that and yet I failed to act in accordance with the powerful and delivering truth. Its a sobering truth revealed.

I used chapter two to ask some personal and practical questions that challenge my common behavior. How do I treat and respect others as I minister within the place God has given me? When called upon to make judgments do I consider that I too will be judged? What part is faith playing in my present activities? Is faith alive and vibrant? Each of those are very personal and practical challenges to me.

In chapter three I simply focused on one issue that seemed to dominate the chapter. I am a teacher so this applies directly to me and causes me to pause and examine my control of my tongue. I thought on and need to use the insight given in this chapter as it relates specifically to me and to my own tongue.

Slide Forty-Two

Our final slide shows two more thoughts that should be applied to each chapter as you read them. In chapter four I have asked what struggles are made clear and personal to me and about me? What about my prayer life? Do I realize what a combat zone prayer really is? Do I realize that submitting to God and resisting the Devil are not just about a battle but about a cleansing? It is a painful knowledge when I find myself being very comfortable and walking apart from God's revealed will. I better stop and reexamine what I am doing when that happens.

Lastly, as I study I like to find some great positive notes. Here in chapter five I want to find that which just encourages me, or lifts my spirits. Every time I study it may be a different experience, depending upon my currents life experience. I might see the encouragement and comfort in knowing that God will vindicate me in all matters in His time (vs. 4). I might get a little excited about the Lord's coming and being able to endure a little more knowing the facts about that coming (vs. 8). And finally, I see prayer... look at what the fervent prayer of a righteous man affects? What direction and manner would God have me to pray today? Elijah was a man just like me and used as an example for me. Wow, that is liberating to our prayer life.

Slide Forty-Three

This slide reflects the primary outline of the Epistle of James that we will be covering over the next few weeks.

Slide Forty-Four

The Sense - Vs. 1-12

The problem - vs. 2, is how we are to consistently react or respond to trials. The trials are those not brought upon ourselves but those “fallen” into. Those that we come upon unexpectedly. We are not to use reason or fleshly judgment but to count them as “full” or “all” joy; not mixed joy. Divers, or multiple, not just different kinds, but when they are coming from all sides, from everywhere. When we are surrounded.

The purpose – vs. 3, The reason we can count them “all joy” is “knowing this.” The knowing comes by experience and our understanding of the providential hand of God. This is a fact; trials make proof of your faith and makes us more able to bear up under the trial, or bear the trial. They build “staying power.” (Phil 4:10-13)

The perfecting – vs. 4, The end of the patience is the perfecting of the believer, the maturing of the believer, the desired purpose of the trial(s). We will not be ultimately “perfect” until we receive a glorified body. (II Cor. 12:9)

The Plea – vs. 5, if you lack wisdom in understanding the trial and in understanding how this can be counted with full joy then petition God for wisdom. While all wisdom is from God this is a plea for wisdom attached to the fact of counting it all joy when we fall into divers temptations. If you have a shortage of making use of practical knowledge then ask God.

The Plenty – vs. 5, God has plenty of wisdom and is willing to share it with you. The word liberally is bountiful; he doesn’t reproach you for asking.

The Potential – vs. 5-8, but let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. Here James gives us some general rules of prayer. If we ask in faith; the wording shows a potential for a positive answer and a negative experience.

The promise – vs. 5, and it shall be given him

The Persons – vs. 9-12, Whether we are rich or poor we are to look inwardly, not at the outward, worldly or fleshly aspect of our lives. The cross of Christ, the reality of being a “Christian” elevates the lowly and lowers the rich. It is the ground upon which all our feet find common blessing. It is in being in Christ, being approved in Christ, finding our rewards in Christ , it is our love for Christ that truly makes the difference. The man who is blessed is the man who endures, bears up under, or comes out unscathed

Slide Forty-Five

This slide is entitled Faith and it's Expressions; the Expressions of Mercy, Accountability, and Vindication.

Looking first at Faith and Expressions of Mercy – vs. 1-7, I see them first Regulated – vs. 1, The faith we have should not be equated with a self-centered partiality that is based upon outward evidences of others. The expressions of our faith must be regulated or consistent with the faith of the one who condescended to a level man can’t fully comprehend or appreciate. Christ is the glory of God and yet he clothed himself with human flesh that he might redeem us. That is the character of saving faith.

Secondly we can see how our expressions of faith in mercy should be Liberated – vs. 2-4, The expressions of our faith have been liberated from the common judgment that exists among men. Mercy is, by its very virtue, undeserved. Our treatment of others must not be based upon external evidences , but upon the character of the faith we possess. Our faith is liberated from biased external considerations.

Next we see hour faith and it's expressions of mercy are Illustrated – vs. 5, The expressions of our faith are clearly illustrated by God. God has chosen the weak, the foolish, and the despised to expose (I Cor. 1:26-31) his glory and not the glory of men. The poor of this world are chosen to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, not because they are rich in faith or heirs of the kingdom.

Finally we see how the expressions of mercy can also be Violated – vs. 6-7, when your actions do not coincide with the saving faith that imitates God you reproach faith and the God of our faith. You act the way the men of this world act without regard to the character of an individual, only considering their rank.

Secondly take note of faith and expressions according to Accountability – vs. 8-13. We can see we are accountable to the Supremacy of God’s Word - vs. 8; To the Strictness of God’s Word – vs. 9; To the Sentencing of God’s Word – vs. 10-11; and to the Supervision of God’s Word – vs. 12-13

Without going into much detail here I point out faith and expressions of Vindication – vs. 14-26. I see a Vindication of saving faith – vs. 14, of substantial faith – vs. 15-17; of supporting faith – vs. 18-23; and of signifying faith – vs. 23-26.