James 1:13-27

• Perseverance
  • Trials and testing from within
    • The distinction
      • Temptation is to lure towards sin/wrong
        • Adam & Eve
        • Satan tempting Jesus
      • Testing is with a view towards growth
        • Abraham and Isaac
    • The source of trials and testing (James 1:13-14)
      • A false view
        • It is false because God does not tempt (lure toward evil)
          • It is against God’s nature
          • He is perfect and, therefore cannot do imperfect things
      • The correct view
        • Satan’s trick is to tempt us to do wrong by causing us to think God is holding out on us
          • Adam & Eve (Genesis 3)
      • The progression of temptation (James 1:15)
        • Desire
        • Deception (comes through rationalization)
        • Disobedience
        • Death
  • The treasure of God’s giving (James 1:16-18)
    • God gives only good gifts
    • God gives constantly
    • God’s giving is unchanging
    • God’s giving comes via the truth
  • The three responsibilities we have toward God (James 1:19-27)
    • Receive the Word (James 1:19-21)
      • Be quick to listen
      • Be slow to speak
      • Be slow to anger
      • Have a prepared heart
    •  Practice the Word (James 1:22-25)
      • There are three ministries of the Word
        • Examination
        • Restoration
        • Transformation
    • Share the Word (James 1:26-27)
      • In speech
      • In service
      • In separation from the world