The Book of James is a short yet powerful letter in the New Testament. Known for its direct and practical advice, it speaks about faith, works, and living a godly life. Here are ten interesting facts that give a deeper look into this book of the Bible.
1. Written by James, the Brother of Jesus
James, the author, was not one of the original twelve apostles but the half-brother of Jesus. He became a leader in the Jerusalem church after Christ’s resurrection.
“Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t his mother’s name Mary, and aren’t his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas?” (Matthew 13:55)
“Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles.” (1 Corinthians 15:7)
2. A Letter to Jewish Believers
James addresses his letter to “the twelve tribes scattered among the nations,” meaning Jewish Christians who had been dispersed due to persecution.
“James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations: Greetings.” (James 1:1)
“Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went.” (Acts 8:4)
3. One of the Earliest New Testament Books
Many scholars believe James was written around AD 48–50, making it one of the earliest New Testament writings—possibly even before Paul’s letters.
“The word of the Lord spread through the whole region.” (Acts 13:49)
“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us.” (Romans 15:4)
4. Emphasis on Living Out Faith
James is well known for teaching that faith without works is dead, stressing that genuine faith produces action.
“In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” (James 2:17)
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:10)
“Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.” (1 John 3:18)
5. Known as the “Proverbs of the New Testament”
The Book of James contains short, powerful statements and practical wisdom similar to the Old Testament Book of Proverbs.
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” (James 1:5)
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10)
6. A Call to Control the Tongue
James warns about the power of the tongue, comparing it to a small spark that can set a forest on fire.
“The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body.” (James 3:6)
“Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin.” (Proverbs 13:3)
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” (Colossians 4:6)
7. Focus on Patience During Trials
James encourages believers to find joy even in hardships, knowing trials help build perseverance and spiritual maturity.
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds.” (James 1:2)
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance.” (Romans 5:3)
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12)
8. A Warning Against Favoritism
The book strongly condemns favoritism toward the wealthy while neglecting the poor.
“But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.” (James 2:9)
“Do not deny justice to your poor people in their lawsuits.” (Exodus 23:6)
“Do not show favoritism to the wicked or be partial to the poor, but judge your neighbor fairly.” (Leviticus 19:15)
9. Prayer is Central
James teaches the importance of prayer for healing, wisdom, and strength in times of trouble.
“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16)
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6)
“Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.” (Jeremiah 29:12)
10. A Call to Humility
James reminds believers to submit to God and resist the devil, living humbly before the Lord.
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:10)
“God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.” (1 Peter 5:5)
“The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.” (Proverbs 22:4)
