June 13, 2017 The problems with James
In this brief letter written by James, the brother of Jesus, we are faced with some real problems. James presents faith in Christ as a set of specific practices, that lead us to live in a way different than much of the culture around us. However, in much of the contemporary church, being a Christian is often presented as a technique for happiness and prosperity - a helpful way of getting what we want. In James, Christians suffer because they follow Jesus.
In some of the contemporary church, following Jesus is understood as entitling us to places of power and privilege, and this plays out politics and society. There is no place for that in James.
In much of the church, salvation is something that you believe or feel, In James, salvation is when you walk and talk like Jesus.
Oops.
The letter sent by the brother of Jesus to fellow disciples calls us to a lived out faith, in intentional community, in which we show love and grace while following Jesus. And it may lead us in places we didn't expect.
Grace and peace,
Mike
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