The Coming of the Lord (James 5:7-20)

[Sung Psalm: 85]

Throughout his letter, James has spoken about what genuine faith looks like. Genuine faith remains steadfast in the midst of trials – because we know where these trials are going.

These trials will end with the coming of the Lord.

James introduced the idea of steadfastness back in chapter 1: “the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.”

Now, at the end of his epistle, James returns to his opening theme, but it is now enriched by his discussion of the tongue in chapter 3, and how we speak in chapter 4.

James continues his theme of speaking here at the end of his epistle. In the first section on steadfastness James focuses on the negative: James warns against grumbling against one another – similar to his warning against “speaking” against each other last time. Then in the transition (verse 12) he urges us not to swear – but to let our yes be yes.

And in the second section, he focuses on the positive: what sort of speaking should we do. Pray, sing praise, confess your sin...