* Although they are not inspired, paragraph divisions are the key to understanding and following the original author's intent. Each modern translation has divided and summarized the paragraphs. Every paragraph has one central topic, truth, or thought. Each version encapsulates that topic in its own distinct way. As you read the text, ask yourself which translation fits your understanding of the subject and verse divisions.
In every chapter we must read the Bible first and try to identify its subjects (paragraphs), then compare our understanding with the modern versions. Only when we understand the original author's intent by following his logic and presentation can we truly understand the Bible. Only the original author is inspired—readers have no right to change or modify the message. Bible readers do have the responsibility of applying the inspired truth to their day and their lives.
Note that all technical terms and abbreviations are explained fully in the following documents: hyperlink, hyperlink, and hyperlink.
FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR'S INTENT AT THE PARAGRAPH LEVEL
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
Read the chapter in one sitting. Identify the subjects. Compare your subject divisions with the five translations above. Paragraphing is not inspired but it is the key to following the original author's intent which is the heart of interpretation. Every paragraph has one and only one subject.
1. First paragraph
2. Second paragraph
3. Third paragraph
4. Etc.
CONTEXTUAL INSIGHTS
POSSIBLE OUTLINE OF CHAPTER 1
There are several ways to outline this chapter. One is to list the characteristics of the redeemed and mature believers versus the redeemed, but weak believers:
MATURE
WEAK
1. joy amidst trials (Jas_1:2)
2. ask for wisdom to endure trials (Jas_1:5)
3. do not doubt in prayer (Jas_1:6)
4. glory in Christ (Jas_1:9)
5. persevere in temptation (Jas_1:12)
6. quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger (Jas_1:19)
7. put off all moral evil (Jas_1:21)
8. receive the word of God (Jas_1:21)
do the word of God (Jas_1:22)
look to and remember the word of God (Jas_1:24-25)
9. careful of speech (Jas_1:20)
10. help the needy (Jas_1:27)
11. remain unstained by the world (Jas_1:27)
(no joy)
(did not ask)
doubt
glory in wealth
yield to temptation
(the opposite)
(the opposite)
(the opposite)
(the opposite)
(the opposite)
(the opposite)
(the opposite)
(the opposite)
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
This is a study guide commentary, which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.
These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be thought-provoking, not definitive.
1. What are we to understand from Jas_1:19?
2. List the items in Jas_1:19-27 that could relate to problems in public worship.
3. Explain the two elements of salvation which are discussed in Jas_1:21.
4. In what way do religious people deceive themselves?
5. Why is the speech of believers mentioned so often in James (Jas_1:19; Jas_1:21; Jas_1:26; Jas_3:1 ff)?
6. Explain James' definition of true religion in Jas_1:26-27. What two items does he emphasize?
