At the end of this wonderful epistle, our dear brother James talks about the importance of honesty in our dealings with one another (James 5:12), what to do when you are afflicted or merry (v. 13), and who to call when you are sick (vv. 14,15). He also touches upon the importance of heart-to-heart relationships in the body of Christ to minister to those areas of weakness which we all possess (v. 16), and upon the gift and power of fervent prayer (vv. 17,18). Lastly he gives the reminder to make sure that any who are in error regarding the gospel of Jesus Christ be told the truth about forgiveness of sin (vv. 19,20).
There is no such thing as a “fig leaf” religion in James’ eyes. For him, true faith is always visible and practical (2:14-26). It will have an effect on the way we talk (3:1-12), on the way we face trials (1:2,3), and on the way we interact with one another (4:1,2). We learn from James that all of the lofty doctrines regarding salvation always boil down to practical application. Paul confirmed this truth as well (Romans 12:1,2).
There will be no crowns in heaven for knowing, but only for doing the will of God (Mark 3:31-35). It was written of Jesus that He came to do the will of God (Hebrews 10:9). It is by doing that we know of the truth of the doctrine of Christ (John 7:17). But it is important for us to realize that our doing should not simply be out of slavish duty, but out of sheer delight to please God (John 8:29) and bring Him glory (1 Corinthians 10:31; 1 Peter 4:11).
May we purpose to delight ourselves in The Lord (Psalm 37:4) and serve Him with gladness (Psalm 100:2), for that is what being like Jesus and true worship are all about.
