2020.01.05 - The Joy of the Christian (James 1:2-4)

Text: James 1:2-4 Title: The Joy of the Christian Introduction: You know from last time we were together, we met and became very familiar with James (the Lord’s earthly brother. We talked about how he was not a believer when Christ was still walking this earth but after His crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection Jesus appeared to James and James by the grace of God became a believer, a follower, disciple, whatever you want to call it, he put his faith into Jesus Christ the Messiah. James the Lord’s brother was humbled by this Christ who at one time he mocked and showed jealous contempt to, James now recognizes how important this Jesus really is. In fact, we talked about how James referred to himself as a bond-servant to God and the Lord Jesus Christ. James was fully submitted to the masters will, James was willing to draw his very life from Christ, and finally James humbled himself below the almighty. These things James did and he made it the focus of the very first verse he writes to us. Now we come to the next few verses as James continues his letter to the 12 tribes dispersed, the modern church (that’s us), and all those facing persecution for their faith in Christ. By the way, let me just say this because I think it needs to be said. You and I, we do not experience persecution in this country for being Christians, not like most people do in other parts of the world. You all have probably seen those shirts, posters, and bags with the decals on them that say, “This book or this message is illegal in 52 countries, Restricted areas 38, and hostile in 14 areas.” There are people in various places that are beaten, raped, murdered, and abused for professing the name of Christ. There are people who are tortured just for praying in Jesus name. We do not experience persecution in this country. At least not yet. If you have been following the culture, you will see that we are fast approaching a time in which God will separate the sheep from the goats. Anyway, moving on. The Joy of Trials The Joy o