Variety in the Scriptures

Scripture Verse that Caught my attention today: James 2:17 So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead.

Observation: Lots of variety in the Scripture.

Application: Scripture is a library of 66 books (possibly even more for those who included the books of the Apocrypha). And although each of these books was included in the Bible to build and/or nurture faith, they do so in different ways. I appreciate that that fact and today’s reading/book is a case in point.

The book of James focuses a great deal on ‘works’ or doing good—so much so that back in the 1500’s Martin Luther felt that James shouldn’t even be in the Bible. Luther did not feel that the book of James offered real grace.

In a way Luther was right; James doesn’t offer much if any grace, save for perhaps a line or two about mercy trumping judgment. The message of James stands in stark contrast to the writings of the Apostle Paul who held firm in the belief that we are justified by faith apart from works prescribed by the law.

Still, I’m glad James is in the Bible. I appreciate the variety of ways in which faith was both understood and practiced in those days. I’ll readily admit that I’m more convinced by the Apostle Paul’s point of view than that of James, yet the book of James nevertheless offers a counter balance worthy of consideration. It is, after all, Scripture.

For Christians, all of Scripture is inspired by God and is useful in some way—even if only to help us think more deeply in terms of what a life of faith might really be like.

Prayer: Dear Lord, thanks for the variety of faith perspectives that we find in your word. Help us to be inspired to add our own in response to your prodding. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

(Readings today included: James 1-5)