Sermon Notes:
1. James was written primarily to Jewish believers going through trials.
2. The “trials” James is referring to here is suffering for Jesus.
3. James says to consider it joyful when we experience trials.
a. Because it produced heavenly rewards
b. Because it produces earthly rewards of developing genuine faith.
Follow-up Questions from Sunday:
Quick Review:
Looking back at your notes from this week’s teaching, was there anything you heard for the first time or that caught your attention, challenged, or confused you?
Digging Deeper:
1. Read James 1:1-4; Matthew 5:10-12. According to Jesus and his brother James, what is the attitude we should have when we face trials because of our faith? Why do you think this is?
2. In Galatians 6:7-8, it says we will reap what we sow. What do you think this means? How has this happened in your life?
3. What do you think is the difference between reaping what we sow and going through trials?
4. When was the last time you experienced trials because of your faith in Jesus? How did this affect your soul?
5. What rewards come with persevering in the faith? How have you experienced this in your faith journey?
6. Read 1 Peter 1:6-7. Why is genuine faith so precious/important to God?
7. What trials do you think followers of Jesus are facing in our society right now and which trials do you think are still awaiting us? How do you think we can best prepare for these?
Prayer:
Close your group with prayer asking the Lord to strengthen us for the days ahead.
Taking it home:
Consider ordering one of the two study books on James that Pastor Frank recommended and start studying this amazing letter.