The epistle of James, while often regarded as emphasizing practical wisdom and ethical exhortations, is not devoid of gospel truths. James may not explicitly expound the gospel in the same manner as Paul, but his teaching aligns with and assumes the foundational truths of the gospel.
Below are several ways in which James mentions or alludes to the gospel:
The Word of Truth as the Gospel
James 1:18 states, “Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.” The “word of truth” is a common New Testament phrase for the gospel (see Ephesians 1:13 and Colossians 1:5). This verse highlights the sovereign grace of God in bringing sinners to spiritual life through the proclamation of the gospel. The imagery of “firstfruits” suggests that believers are a new creation, pointing to the redemptive work of Christ.
The Law of Liberty
James frequently refers to the “law of liberty” (James 1:25; 2:12). This is best understood as the law fulfilled in Christ and applied to believers who are set free from the condemnation of the law. The gospel transforms the law from a condemning standard into a guide for living out the righteousness that comes through faith in Christ. This liberty is rooted in the grace of God through the gospel, not in human effort.
Mercy Triumphs Over Judgment
In James 2:13, we read, “For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.” This statement reflects the gospel reality that God’s mercy in Christ triumphs over the judgment we deserve. Believers are called to extend mercy to others because they have first received mercy through the gospel.
Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ
James 2:1 exhorts believers not to show partiality, appealing to “faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory.” This explicit mention of faith in Christ ties James’s teaching to the gospel. Faith in Christ is the foundation for the ethical instructions in the letter, as it shapes how believers relate to one another.
Humility and Grace for Sinners
In James 4:6-10, we see a call to humility, repentance, and submission to God, grounded in the promise that “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). This grace is ultimately the grace of the gospel, offered to sinners who repent and believe.
Patience in Suffering and the Hope of the Gospel
James 5:7-11 encourages believers to be patient in suffering, looking to the example of the prophets and Job. The ultimate hope behind this exhortation is the coming of the Lord, which is rooted in the gospel promise of Christ’s return to vindicate and redeem His people.
Prayer of Faith and Forgiveness
James 5:15-16 connects the prayer of faith with the forgiveness of sins. While James focuses on the communal aspect of confession and prayer, the forgiveness of sins is a gospel blessing purchased by Christ’s atoning work.
Conclusion
Although James does not lay out the gospel systematically, his letter is permeated with gospel themes. The transformative power of the gospel undergirds his ethical exhortations, and his emphasis on faith, mercy, grace, and the hope of Christ’s return flows from the good news of salvation in Christ. James challenges believers to live out their faith in light of the gospel, demonstrating its reality in their lives.
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