Scripture: James 5:13-18
Background: Potentially written between 46-48 AD. James addresses a lot of the same themes as the apostle Peter, his contemporary. One of the biggest differences is that the reader will notice the book of James can seemingly function as the “Proverbs” of the New Testament. With plenty of short quips of lifestyle change the book is sometimes difficult to follow but also has an amazing amount of practicality that spans well beyond the original desired audience. Many scholars believe the heart of James’ message is to keep the worldliness of the church out of the church in whatever form it may take.
Lesson: As we near the end of James’ letter, we see that the writer has masterfully drawn us back to the beginning. In James 5:13-18, James is saying that we are to respond to all circumstances with prayer.
James is concerned with the action of prayer that follows any given circumstance. If you are sick, pray. If you are filled with joy, sing songs of praise. Regardless of your circumstance, acknowledge God; this is an amazing reminder for Christians who might not necessarily pray through all things. It’s easy to forget about God when everything is going well because we don’t think we need to pray. Similarly, we often perceive prayer as a lifeline to throw out when we are going through difficulty. This passage in James draws me back to the wisdom of Proverbs 3:6, which says in the ESV: “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Main Point/Takeaway: In all your ways acknowledge God, and he will make straight your paths.
Questions: (These questions are suggestions designed to spur discussion. Feel free to ask others.)
1: Read James 5:13-18. How do these verses connect with the previous section?
1a: Do you see anything that might connect with the book as a whole?
2: Carefully read James 5:13.
2a: What do you think James is emphasizing in this verse?
2b: Why do you think James emphasizes prayer?
2c: How is prayer different in different circumstances?
3: Consider James 5:14-15. What happens when Christians “pray in faith”?
3a: Does that mean everyone with faith gets healed?
3b: Is there a difference between being saved from sickness and being forgiven for sins?
3c: What are the differences?
4: Read James 5:16-18. What do you think is James’ point in these verses?
4a: Why would James draw the reader back to an episode in 1 Kings 17-18?