PREPARING FOR THE SERMON

March 10, 2024

James 1:9-18

Context:

            The probable dating of the book of James is between 44-48 AD. This is a short period of time after the ascension of Jesus. Part of the dating relates to the lack of interaction with Paul and the Gentile explosion found in the book of Acts. There is a good chance that the book of James was the first New Testament book written. That means James’ audience had only the Old Testament and the oral testimony about Jesus and His message to direct their teaching.

 

Structure:

            All three paragraphs in the present pericope relate to perceived good and ultimate good. They three paragraphs approach the theme from different vantage points.

9-11 let the lowly boast in his exaltation and the rich in his humiliation (vv 9-10)

12-15 blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial (v 12)

16-18 every good and perfect gift is from above (v 16)

 

 Theology: enduring goals, trials, temptation, sin, blessing

 

Some things to think about:

  • How does the world’s definition of what is good contrast with God’s definition.
  • Why do immediate or highly visible things sometimes seem better to us than spiritual or heavenly blessings?

 

PREPARING FOR WORSHIP

Call to Worship

Romans 1:12

I Believe

Theme: Belief, Adoration

Purpose for Singing: To declare what we believe about God and give Him the praise and honor for everything.

Oh But God

Theme: Provision, Gospel

Purpose for Singing: To confession that we are dead in our sin and lost without Jesus, giving Him the credit for our salvation.

Congregational Scripture Reading

Matthew 5:14-16

I’ve Witnessed It

Theme: Testimony, Faithfulness

Purpose for Singing: To proclaim the unending faithfulness of God.

Great is Thy Faithfulness

Theme: Faithfulness, Adoration

Purpose for Singing: To be reminded of God’s unending faithfulness.