PREPARING FOR THE SERMON
April 7, 2024
James 1:26-27
Context:
Verses 26-27 of James chapter one seem like an aside. They have loose thematic ties to what comes before and after, but are unique their application. Previously, James has addressed the faulty nature of a false appearance. Verse 22 says people who do not “do” the word “deceive” themselves. In verse 26 a person who does not bridle their tongue “deceives” himself or his heart. James will go into more detail about the dangers of the tongue in chapter 3, but he leaves conversation about the tongue hanging until then.
The introduction of orphans and widows seems very important in isolation, but unimportant in development as James never returns to them. They stand as an example of priorities and heart condition in treating people. Chapter 2 will switch from orphans and widows to rich and poor people, but in both situations, the attitude and behavior towards people over and against any perceived benefit in relation to them is God based, not world based.
Structure:
The verses comprise one paragraph about religion. Each verse stands alone as they also contribute to the total picture of true and worthy religion.
Theology: religion, works, attitudes, sanctification
Some things to think about: