The instruction and encouragement that Pastor James had shared so far has been simultaneously powerful, convicting and uplifting. He has been clear to his people and us as readers. We will endure trials, even oppression, but if we ask God for wisdom and endure them with joy, then we are promised blessing for our fidelity and a crown of life that cannot be taken away.

Pastor James has also shown that though our attitude can turn a trial into temptation, that God is faithful. He is good and He does good. God is only and always good. But this young Messianic Community still has much to work through. Much like any oppressed community of people, who have suffered prolonged, severe oppression, violence was beginning to become an acceptable option in some of their minds.

This though was not and is not an option for God’s people. James needs them to understand exactly what it means to live as an alternative society within the one in which they exist. If the default disposition of society is to react with violence and revenge to oppression, then James wants the community of Jesus to live in a posture that is reflective of the Kingdom of God, not the society around them.

James gives them clear ethics and practice for how to live justly in the midst of injustice, as he surfaces and draws attention to the beauty and potency of the Kingdom Community.

James | Finding My Religion | James 1:19-27