The author is James. He wrote it between 45-50 AD. The theme is practical Christian living. The book of James is the first among what is known as “The General Epistles, which include James, 1-2 Peter, 1-3 John and Jude. They are called the General Epistles because they were not addressed to a particular church or individual, but were intended for circulation among the believers.

James is the half-brother of Jesus and wrote the book. In the beginning Jesus’ brothers didn’t believe in Him. But after Jesus’ resurrection, and most likely after meeting Him personally in His post-resurrection appearances, they realized He was truly God in the flesh, the Savior of the World, and this changed their lives forever.

However, it’s interesting, that in writing this book James didn’t mention his relationship to Jesus for his credentials. Ashley for me, I would be tempted to say I was the half- brother of Jesus. I would want to let the world know how important I am. Instead, James identified himself simply as “a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.” (Jam 1:1)

Most scholars agree that the book of James is one of the oldest of the New Testament books, written around 45 AD. James became the leader of the church in Jerusalem, as told to us in Acts 15:4-18 (Also see Acts 21:18; Gal 1:19,2:9-12.) He addressed this epistle to the Jewish Christians who were scatttered all over the known world as they were beginning to suffer persecution.

James is quite possibly the most practical book in the New Testament. Although it contains some important doctrinal teachings, it’s mainly practical counsel on how to live the Christian life. The book of James addresses the prejudices which we have a propensity to adhere to. It addresses issues about money, the tongue, pride, strife, and so many other practical issues we face on a daily basis. James communicates that the Christian life should not just be a belief system and philosophy to which we exercise a mental assent; instead it’s a lifestyle. It’s something to be believed and lived out. To think of the book of James, it reminds me of Pastor Chuck Smith having an assistant pastor names L.E. Romaine who served him at Calvary Chapel for decades,until he went home to be with the Lord. Romaine was a retired Marine drill sergeant, and he acted like it on the outside. He had a tough exterior, but deep inside he had a heart for the Lord and a love for God’s people. Romaine loved the book of James and often taught it. He had a pragmatic method of applying the Word which was much like the style of James. He would simply cut to the chase and call you to an honest application of the Word. Sometimes it hurt, but you knew you needed it. If our faith doesn’t result in evidence of a changed life, then it’s a dead faith. Fruit always follows faith, obedience always follows belief.