Image © David Sorensen from GoodSalt.com

I have thought a lot about James over the last week. The discussions about his identity have been interesting. The evidence seems to support the view that James was actually a brother of Jesus, although no one can say with 100% certainty that he was.

As a leader of the early church, James distinguished himself as a man of wisdom. There’s ample proof that he was highly thought of.

Now Peter continued knocking; and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. But motioning to them with his hand to keep silent, he declared to them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, “Go, tell these things to James and to the brethren.” Acts 12:16-17

What I find most interesting about James is how he described himself. He makes no mention of his bloodline, if he indeed was a half-sibling of Christ.

Nor did James describe himself by any accomplishments made in life. No mention does he make of his education or his business acumen. No mention is made of positions of importance that he may have held previous to the writing of his letter. He presents no human credentials to give authority and legitimacy to his words. James identifies himself as simply a slave.

“James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ” James 1:1

This is more than a writer’s flourish to give a poetic ring to his words. James was stating that his identity in life was nothing more and nothing less than a servant to his Master. That simple declaration tells me much about James.

Using the Bible as a decoder, it tells me that James’ focus in life was Jesus the Christ and making Him known to others. To exalt himself or anyone other than Christ would be contrary to his mission in life. James lived for the approval of God and not man.

“For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake.” 2 Corinthians 4:5

“Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” Galatians 1:10 NIV

It tells me that James was a kind man who used gentleness and patience as opposed to pressure and debating to guide others in the path of righteousness.

“And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth” 2 Timothy 2:24-25

James was also a man of humility. There could be no higher calling in life than to serve the needs of others and this indispensable quality was modeled by his Master. James embraced this.

“But whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant.  And whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Mark 10:43-45

This quarter as we study the Book of James, the Lord’s Brother, we do so knowing that the words of this book were written by someone who was sold out to God. His practical guidance for the everyday issues of life are themes worth our time and study. Welcome to the Book of James.

Here are a few Hit the Mark questions for this week’s lesson discussion:

• What does it mean to you to be a slave for Christ?
• John 8:36 says, “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” How do you reconcile that with being a slave/servant of Christ?
• What are some of the everyday benefits that come with being a slave/servant of Christ?
• Describe the lifestyle of someone who considers themselves to be a bondservant/slave of Christ.
• Is the following statement True, Mostly True, Somewhat True or Not True: You will never have to worry if you have given your life completely to Christ. Explain your answer.

We close these week with an appeal from Paul that we go all in with God. It’s not too much to ask:

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:1-2

Until next week, let’s all continue to Hit the Mark in Sabbath School!

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