As we continue our study of James let’s do a chapter study of chapter 4. In this study method you give the chapter a title after reading it over a few times. Then you identify a key verse. After this you try stating the main theme in one sentence. You can list cross-references that help you to understand what is stated in the chapter. Also, list any questions or problems you encounter. Once you’ve done these, you’ll be prepared to put what’s in the chapter into an outline. Finally, develop some applications to your own life based on what you’ve discovered.
When I did this for James 4 I gave the chapter the title, “Being Christian in your daily walk.” I chose part of verse 6 as the key verse: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.”
When I thought of cross references I listed Luke 18:1 and John 16:24 to amplify the first three verses. I Peter 5:6-11 relates to what James says in verses 4-12. Matthew 6:25-34 puts James’ thoughts in verses 13-17 into the words of Jesus. When you reflect on what you find in such cross-references it will help you better understand the portion you are studying.
When I read this chapter the main problem I had was the reference to fights, quarreling and killing in the opening verses. James is referring to Christians here. This is a tragic picture of conflict in the church. We are supposed to be complimenting each other and working together in peace.
Now that we’ve considered these things in James 4 we need to organize the information into an outline. I’ll share with you what I came up with in our next visit.
