Circuit Rider Letter
February 2011
by Pastor John DiGiamberardino

FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK

“The whole Bible was given to us by inspiration from God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives; it straightens us out and helps us do what is right. It is God’s way of making us well prepared at every point, fully equipped to do good to everyone.”    2 Timothy 3:16-17 (LB)

This is the purpose of the Bible. It teaches us what is true. It makes us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out when we get off the path. And it is God’s way of making us well prepared at every point fully equipped to do good to everyone. We are currently going verse by verse through James during worship on Sunday mornings. Anytime you study the scriptures you need to make sure you ask the following questions:

Who wrote this?    To whom was it written?    When did they write this?    Why was this written?

Any study of scripture begins with answering these four questions. But that is not the only questions you ask. Any study requires us to identify some application of what is being said. There are three other questions that also must be asked. These are the “so what?” questions.

• So what did it mean to the original hearers?
• So what is the underlying timeless principle?
• So what am I suppose to do in response to this principle?

Who wrote this letter?       “James a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,...”

We said that James was written by the brother of Jesus. James was a Nazarite and faithful Jewish leader. He was also the leader of the Christian Church that gathered in Jerusalem. James was martyred in 62 AD after he stood up in the temple and testified that Jesus was the Messiah.

To whom was it written?       “To the twelve tribes scattered among the nations.”

This letter was written to all Christians in Jerusalem and all those scattered through out the known world. Unlike other letters that were written to particular people or churches, this letter was circular and was expected to be read by everyone.

When Was This Written?

Many believe this letter was written just prior to James death in 62 AD.

Why Was This Written?

The purpose of this letter was to instruct the hearer and reader in some practical principles for Christian living. This letter is for the person who has already responded to the grace of God and has confidence that they are a redeemed child of God. This letter is for you and me. It gives some practical advise on faith that works. Join us as we go verse by verse through James in the coming weeks.

See You In Worship,          Pastor John