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Draw Near – 365 Guides to Greater Intimacy with GodSample
"EPISTLE OF STRAW"
The last seven epistles are called "general" because they were written not to specific churches or to particular individuals but to Christians in general. Written by "James the Just," this epistle is the most "Jewish" of all the New Testament books. It surpasses the other General Epistles in the practical application of Jesus' words. The book contains only two references to Christ as Savior. No mention is made of the miracles and teachings of Christ, although its pages reflect the principles laid down by Jesus.
Some people have difficulty accepting the teachings of this book. Martin Luther was one of these. He described this epistle as "An Epistle of Straw." Coming out of a church that stressed salvation by works instead of by grace, Luther tended to reject this epistle because there is so much emphasis on "good works." He failed to see that both faith and works have a proper place in the life of a Christian. This book downplays theology and stresses ethics. It has often been called the "proverbs of the New Testament."
Never underestimate the sound advice and spiritual impact of James. He tells us how to get wisdom and then gives us a test to see if we have actually received it. A most significant verse pinpoints the origin of all the wars on this earth: Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members? (James 4:1). In retrospect, it is easy to see that all personal and global wars have started from a man's or a nation's selfishness. James is a meaningful book in our uneasy age.
Scripture
About this Plan
Daily devotions for each day of the year. Ron Hembree illusrates how to 'Draw Near' to God through scriptures and insightful stories for each day.
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