Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16 (James 1-5)
It is believed James, the brother of Jesus, who became the leader of the Jerusalem Church, is the author of this letter sent to the general population of Jewish converts. While Jesus was on earth, James did not believe in His deity or Lordship, but following the resurrection he found a great faith that sustained him through thirty years of ministry and a final martyrdom. His words offer practical advise for Christian living, a book of Christian proverbs is you will. James was well known as a prayer warrior. It was said his knees were callused from hours spent praying. It was a worthy endeavor James instructed the world to embrace.
It seems as if there is conflict between Paul’s teaching of justification by faith and James’ insistence on good works. There is no disconnect, but rather, a supplementary relationship between the two. Real faith transforms. Transformation is evidenced in the way we think, regard ourselves and treat others. James gives specific comments pertaining to the tongue which expresses our heart and personality. There must be consistency between Christian faith and Christian behavior. Whether we like it or not, we are measured by our conduct, but don’t despair, conduct is our strength against temptation.
Ananus, the High Priest and the scribes and pharisees were infuriated with James’ works among the Judean Jews. As persecution in Jerusalem escalated he was bought to the steps of the Temple and pressed to denounce the Messiahship of Jesus. Instead he proclaimed His glory and was stoned. As he drew his final breath, tradition says he prayed the same final prayer as his earthly brother and eternal King, “Forgive them for they know not what they do.” Indeed, the prayers of the righteous are powerful.
Love,
Gretchen