Rooted in Christ

James 1:1

Before studying any passage, it’s important to understand the context.

For those unfamiliar, here’s a quick summary of James:

Author: James, half-brother of Jesus Christ. Some suggest that he may have initially opposed his brother (Mark 3:20–21, 31–35), but soon came into the faith and eventually became a leader within the early church (1 Cor 9:5; 15:7; Gal 1:15–2:12; and Acts 12:17; 15:13; 21:18). James was later martyred in 62 AD.

Date: Scholars debate on the exact date that the book of James was written, but most agree 40-62 AD.

Audience: Jewish Christians of the diaspora. These were believers who were living outside of Jerusalem.

Genre: Epistle (letter)- meant for circulation to a wider audience, Practical Wisdom; New Testament

Background: The book of James was written to encourage believers to be patient in trials, increase their faith, and examine their doctrine and practice. James understood the need for endurance while being tested and that testing produces maturity in Christ. He highlighted the importance of unwavering faith and what Christian belief looked like in everyday life. He taught that faith in God resulted in changed behavior.

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James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,
To the twelve tribes in the Dispersion:
Greetings.

James 1:1 ESV

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The first verse of the book of James serves as the introduction to the letter. It contains key elements and so many valuable lessons for application. In reading there are a few things that I picked up on: 1. James is the writer, 2. James considers himself a servant of God and Jesus Christ, 3. The letter is to the dispersed twelve tribes of Israel, and 4. James is greeting his audience.

Let’s look at James. He’s writing this letter. While he could have given his title as one of the leaders in the early church, he chose to simply use his name. He goes on to call himself a servant of God and Lord Jesus Christ. This reflects the reverence that he has for God and Jesus Christ. Digging deeper into the Greek for a servant (doulos) gives an even richer meaning to this particular phrase. Doulos means bond-servant or slave; literally ‘one tied to another’. James is saying that not only does he honor God and Jesus, but he lives in total submission to them both.

It’s amazing how a name and simple phrase gives the reader insight into how James saw himself. It paints a picture of someone who knows their identity is rooted in Christ, under the will of God, and there’s no need for extra titles.

Now take a look at the audience, ‘twelve tribes dispersed’. This letter is for a specific body of believers. It’s directed at Jewish Christians that are spread throughout other lands and nations. James was clearly on assignment. He knew that he had a word specifically for this particular group within the body of Christ and he was getting ready to minister to them. And finally, the Greetings. One may stop short and consider this a hello or hey, but looking at the Greek root word reveals meanings of ‘rejoice’ or ‘be glad.’ How fitting that he would use such language as he begins to encourage them about the trials they are experiencing.

Reflect

So much about James’ character can be seen in this one verse. For him to have grown up alongside Jesus Christ, later come into the faith, and be held in high esteem in the early church, yet choose to see himself as a servant speaks volumes. He knew that his true worth, identity, and assignment came from his faith in Jesus Christ. Can you say the same? When you introduce yourself what do you include? Titles? Roles? or who you are in Christ?