James, the Wisdom of Jesus

When the Epistle of James is studied, it is regarded as a book of wisdom. But what kind of wisdom is it? With what biblical parallels can it be connected? Given that it is practical, with what matters does it register concern? Does it speak directly to all mankind or is it specifically directed to the believer? Are the issues that presented themselves to the 1st century church pertinent for this century? It is the intention of this article to speak to the foregoing questions. It has always been difficult to trace the outline as found in this epistle. While it is not the purpose of this article to trace the argument of James as it develops, one cannot ignore the importance of developing arguments within the epistle. The wise man desires bases on which he can affirm his spiritual vitality. The book of James presents the tests of faith. As the believer encounters opportunities to walk in wisdom, and employs the provisions given by the Lord, genuine growing faith will be evident. Faith always is appropriated in concrete circumstances applied to specific attitudes and acts.