Verse 1 - James clearly identifies who he is. Some argue over which James this James is. Was he the silent, introverted disciple? Was he the prominent Jewish leader in early Christian times before the other New Testament books were written? Was he the brother of Jesus? Though answering such questions gives the background more context and helps align our view when reading this book, I want to point out that James says exactly who he is.
"James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ." Jame is a servant of the Lord. Simple. It is with that understanding that we are to read this letter. That it is from one who serves God. The rest of the verse has a traditional greeting of that time. "To the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad: Greetings." This traditional greeting was common among the Jewish people, so historians believe this book to have been written closer to when Jesus lived on earth compared the rest of the New Testament. The phrase means, not to the literal twelve tribes, but really the other fellow believers no matter where they are. So James was writing to basically everyone. Not the Sadducees. Not the Pharisees. Not the Catholics, Baptists, or Seventh-day Adventists. He was talking to all those who follow our Creator God.
This is a place where I am study God's Word for myself. I am a bit of a historian so also including some research into the culture of the times and people that I come across as I read the Bible will be here too. This is just a way for me to share what I learn with others as well as feel like I am being held accountable for keeping up with my devotions. I am lazy by nature and need that small check and balance.
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