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2) James 1:12: Earlier in this chapter, James exhorted his readers to respond with joy to trials because the testing of their faith would produce perseverance (Jas 1:2–4).[1]
Yet, every ordeal we encounter also carries an inner enticement to sin.[2]
Therefore, he contrasted two paths we can take. Facing tests with endurance leads to life. Yielding to desire produces sin, which causes death.[3]
Our loyalty to God causes us to turn from temptation, for real love for the Lord manifests itself in action.[4]
God has promised the crown of life to those who love him. James employed imagery of disciplined, well-trained athletes so enthralled with their sport that they pursue their goal to the end and win the race, earning laurel wreath crowns.[5]
Image via Wikimedia Commons
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a) Read James 1:12. How does temptation provide both a pitfall and an opportunity? What enables you to persevere through trials?
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Go to A Baited Trap (Jas 1:13–15)
[Related posts include A Baited Trap (Jas 1:13–15); Succumbing to Temptation (Gen 3:6); Satan Tempts Christ (Matt 4:1–4); A Second Temptation (Matt 4:5–7); and The Third Temptation (Matt 4:8–11); Falling for Deception (2 Cor 11:3–4); and An Angel of Light (2 Cor 11:13–15)]
[Click here to go to Chapter 6: A Serpent in the Garden (Genesis 3:1–13)]
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[1]Douglas J. Moo, The Letter of James (PNTC; Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2000), 69.
[2] Moo, The Letter of James, 72.
[3]Scot McKnight, The Letter of James (NICNT; Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 2011), 121.
[4]David P. Nystrom, James (NIVAC; Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1997), 72.
[5]Moo, The Letter of James, 70.
Redemptive History and Theology 