James teaches what the practices of a true disciple of Christ ought to be. Disciples will exemplify pure religion through their works. Care for the poor and needy, bridling one’s tongue, and seeking wisdom are but a few of the requirements of those who would become perfect like Christ.
“Discipleship and the Epistle of James,” David M. Whitchurch, Go Ye into All the World: Messages of the New Testament Apostles
Dr. Whitchurch examines the authorship, reception, and content of the epistle of James.
“‘If Any of You Lack Wisdom’: James’s Imperative to Israel,” Craig K. Manscill, Go Ye into All the World: Messages of the New Testament Apostles
Dr. Manscill writes about the background of the Epistle of James and the themes of wisdom, fear of the Lord, and perfection.
Chart 13-10: “The Jameses,” Charting the New Testament
What the New Testament says about the three Jameses (the son of Zebedee, the son of Alphaeus, and the brother of the Lord).
Chart 13:12: “The Sermon on the Mount and the Epistle of James,” Charting the New Testament
More than twenty phrases from the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7 also appear in the Epistle of James. This consistency shows that James knew and revered Jesus’ words.
Video: “Lacking Wisdom: Insights from the First Verses of James,” John Gee, BYU New Testament Commentary conference 2023
Dr. Gee looks closely at various early manuscripts of James. Begin at minute 22 to hear about Joseph Smith’s experience with James 1:5.
