Archives for 2025

Book of James

Chapter 3

“But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.” (3:8)

Taming the Tongue

James 3 provides an invaluable lesson on the power of the tongue and the significance of divine wisdom. It calls for introspection on how we use our words and challenges us to live a life that reflects true wisdom from above. It reaffirms that a peaceful, humble life, lived in sincere wisdom, yields righteousness. Our words and actions must align to reflect the divine wisdom that can only come from God.

The Power and Danger of the Tongue (James 3:1-6)

My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.3 Behold, we put bits in the horses’ mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.4 Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth.5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.

James begins by warning his readers that not many should become teachers because they will be judged more strictly. He admits that everyone stumbles in many ways, and those who can control their tongue can control their whole body. Likening the tongue to a small bit that controls a horse or a small rudder that steers a ship, James emphasizes its power. He also compares the tongue to a fire that can corrupt and set the whole course of one’s life aflame.

The Challenge of Taming the Tongue (James 3:7-12)

7 For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind:8 But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.9 Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.10 Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.11 Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?12 Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.

The author continues by stating the human inability to tame the tongue. He mentions how humans can tame all kinds of animals but fail to control the tongue, which is full of deadly poison. He laments the inconsistency of using the tongue for both blessing God and cursing people who are made in God’s likeness.

True Wisdom and Understanding (James 3:13-18)

13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.

James then moves on to discuss true wisdom and understanding, challenging his readers to show their wisdom by their good life and deeds done in humility. He contrasts the earthly wisdom, which is unspiritual and demonic, with the wisdom from above, characterized by being pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy, impartial, and sincere. He ends by stating that peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

James 3, a vital part of the New Testament, provides profound teachings about the power of the tongue and the importance of divine wisdom. In his unique style, James addresses Christian believers and specifically teachers, highlighting the immense responsibility they carry due to the influence of their words. He further delves into the difference between heavenly and earthly wisdom, emphasizing how the former leads to peace and righteousness.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Book of James

Chapter 3

“But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.” (3:8)

Taming the Tongue

James 3 provides an invaluable lesson on the power of the tongue and the significance of divine wisdom. It calls for introspection on how we use our words and challenges us to live a life that reflects true wisdom from above. It reaffirms that a peaceful, humble life, lived in sincere wisdom, yields righteousness. Our words and actions must align to reflect the divine wisdom that can only come from God.

The Challenge of Taming the Tongue (James 3:7-12)

7 For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind:8 But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.9 Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.10 Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.11 Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?12 Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.

The author continues by stating the human inability to tame the tongue. He mentions how humans can tame all kinds of animals but fail to control the tongue, which is full of deadly poison. He laments the inconsistency of using the tongue for both blessing God and cursing people who are made in God’s likeness.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Book of James

Chapter 3

“But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.” (3:8)

Taming the Tongue

James 3 provides an invaluable lesson on the power of the tongue and the significance of divine wisdom. It calls for introspection on how we use our words and challenges us to live a life that reflects true wisdom from above. It reaffirms that a peaceful, humble life, lived in sincere wisdom, yields righteousness. Our words and actions must align to reflect the divine wisdom that can only come from God.

The Power and Danger of the Tongue (James 3:1-6)

My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation.2 For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.3 Behold, we put bits in the horses’ mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.4 Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth.5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!6 And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.

James begins by warning his readers that not many should become teachers because they will be judged more strictly. He admits that everyone stumbles in many ways, and those who can control their tongue can control their whole body. Likening the tongue to a small bit that controls a horse or a small rudder that steers a ship, James emphasizes its power. He also compares the tongue to a fire that can corrupt and set the whole course of one’s life aflame.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Book of James

Chapter 2

“But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” (2:20)

Faith and Works

James 2 presents a powerful reminder that real faith is more than mere words or beliefs – it is demonstrated through our actions. It also underscores the fundamental Christian tenet of equality, emphasizing that every individual, regardless of their societal status, is equal in the eyes of God. This chapter encourages us to live out our faith practically, with mercy, and without favoritism.

Faith and Works (Verse 14-26)

14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.25 Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

In the final section, James explores the relationship between faith and works, asserting that faith without works is dead. He uses the examples of Abraham and Rahab to show that genuine faith is demonstrated through actions.

James 2, part of the New Testament of the Bible, continues the Apostle James’s teachings to the early Christian church. In this chapter, he instructs Christians on two central themes: the sin of showing favoritism and the relationship between faith and deeds.

Practical Applications

Examine Personal BiasesReflect on any biases or favoritism you may hold and seek to treat all individuals with equal respect and love.

Actively Love Your NeighborFind tangible ways to love and serve those around you, fulfilling the royal law in your community.

Integrate Faith and ActionIdentify areas in your life where your actions may not align with your faith and make intentional changes to live out your beliefs.

Model Faith through ServiceEngage in acts of service that demonstrate your faith, such as volunteering or helping those in need.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Book of James

Chapter 2

“But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” (2:20)

Faith and Works

James 2 presents a powerful reminder that real faith is more than mere words or beliefs – it is demonstrated through our actions. It also underscores the fundamental Christian tenet of equality, emphasizing that every individual, regardless of their societal status, is equal in the eyes of God. This chapter encourages us to live out our faith practically, with mercy, and without favoritism.

The Royal Law (Verse 8-11) 

8 If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:9 But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.11 For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law.      

He introduces the “Royal Law” from scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” and states that favoritism violates this law. By breaking this law, one becomes a lawbreaker.

Judgment and Mercy (Verse 12-13)

 12 So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.13 For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.

James calls for his readers to speak and act as those who will be judged by the law of liberty. He emphasizes that mercy triumphs over judgment, teaching that those who show no mercy will be judged without mercy.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Book of James

Chapter 2

“But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” (2:20)

Faith and Works

James 2 presents a powerful reminder that real faith is more than mere words or beliefs – it is demonstrated through our actions. It also underscores the fundamental Christian tenet of equality, emphasizing that every individual, regardless of their societal status, is equal in the eyes of God. This chapter encourages us to live out our faith practically, with mercy, and without favoritism.

 Warning against Favoritism (Verse 1-4)

My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.2 For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment;3 And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:4 Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?

The chapter begins with James warning Christians not to show favoritism, illustrating his point with the example of a wealthy man and a poor man entering a gathering. He admonishes his readers for showing undue honor to the rich and shaming the poor, an act contrary to Christian values of equality and love.

The Rich and the Poor (Verse 5-7) 

5 Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?6 But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?7 Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?

James reminds the Christians that God has chosen the poor to be rich in faith and inherit the Kingdom. He points out that it’s often the rich who oppress the Christians and blaspheme the noble name of Jesus.

The Royal Law (Verse 8-11) 

8 If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:9 But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.11 For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law.      

He introduces the “Royal Law” from scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” and states that favoritism violates this law. By breaking this law, one becomes a lawbreaker.

Judgment and Mercy (Verse 12-13)

 12 So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.13 For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.

James calls for his readers to speak and act as those who will be judged by the law of liberty. He emphasizes that mercy triumphs over judgment, teaching that those who show no mercy will be judged without mercy.

Faith and Works (Verse 14-26)

14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.25 Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

In the final section, James explores the relationship between faith and works, asserting that faith without works is dead. He uses the examples of Abraham and Rahab to show that genuine faith is demonstrated through actions.

James 2, part of the New Testament of the Bible, continues the Apostle James’s teachings to the early Christian church. In this chapter, he instructs Christians on two central themes: the sin of showing favoritism and the relationship between faith and deeds.

Practical Applications

Examine Personal BiasesReflect on any biases or favoritism you may hold and seek to treat all individuals with equal respect and love.

Actively Love Your NeighborFind tangible ways to love and serve those around you, fulfilling the royal law in your community.

Integrate Faith and ActionIdentify areas in your life where your actions may not align with your faith and make intentional changes to live out your beliefs.

Model Faith through ServiceEngage in acts of service that demonstrate your faith, such as volunteering or helping those in need.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Book of James

Chapter 2

“But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” (2:20)

Faith and Works

James 2 presents a powerful reminder that real faith is more than mere words or beliefs – it is demonstrated through our actions. It also underscores the fundamental Christian tenet of equality, emphasizing that every individual, regardless of their societal status, is equal in the eyes of God. This chapter encourages us to live out our faith practically, with mercy, and without favoritism.

The Rich and the Poor (Verse 5-7) 

5 Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?6 But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?7 Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?

James reminds the Christians that God has chosen the poor to be rich in faith and inherit the Kingdom. He points out that it’s often the rich who oppress the Christians and blaspheme the noble name of Jesus.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Book of James

Chapter 2

“But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” (2:20)

Faith and Works

James 2 presents a powerful reminder that real faith is more than mere words or beliefs – it is demonstrated through our actions. It also underscores the fundamental Christian tenet of equality, emphasizing that every individual, regardless of their societal status, is equal in the eyes of God. This chapter encourages us to live out our faith practically, with mercy, and without favoritism.

 Warning against Favoritism (Verse 1-4)

My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.2 For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment;3 And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:4 Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?

The chapter begins with James warning Christians not to show favoritism, illustrating his point with the example of a wealthy man and a poor man entering a gathering. He admonishes his readers for showing undue honor to the rich and shaming the poor, an act contrary to Christian values of equality and love.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Book of James 

Chapter 1

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. (1:22)

Rejoicing in Trials

James 1 enlightens us about the transformative power of faith, trials, wisdom, and true religion. It inspires us to embrace trials as a means of building character, seek wisdom from God, understand our temptations, and live out our faith through compassionate actions and moral living. As we navigate through our own trials and challenges, let’s remember to continually seek wisdom and understanding from the source of every good and perfect gift, our immutable God.

The Immutable God  (Verses 16-18)

16 Do not err, my beloved brethren.17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

James admonishes not to be deceived. Every good and perfect gift comes from God, who does not change like shifting shadows. Of His own will, He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures.

True Religion  (Verses 19-27)

19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass:24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.

James instructs quick listening, slow speaking, and slow anger, for human anger does not produce righteousness. He urges the shedding of moral filth and evil, and the acceptance of the word planted in us. He emphasizes the importance of not just hearing the word, but doing what it says. He defines pure religion as looking after orphans and widows in their distress and keeping oneself from being polluted by the world.

James 1 is a compelling chapter that serves as the opening to the Book of James in the New Testament. It was written by James, the brother of Jesus, addressed to the twelve tribes scattered across the nations. This chapter calls for the cultivation of perseverance through trials, seeking wisdom from God, understanding and overcoming temptations, and practicing genuine faith. 

(https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/james/1.htm)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Book of James 

Chapter 1

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. (1:22)

Rejoicing in Trials

James 1 enlightens us about the transformative power of faith, trials, wisdom, and true religion. It inspires us to embrace trials as a means of building character, seek wisdom from God, understand our temptations, and live out our faith through compassionate actions and moral living. As we navigate through our own trials and challenges, let’s remember to continually seek wisdom and understanding from the source of every good and perfect gift, our immutable God.

Contrast between the Rich and the Poor (Verses 9-11)

9 Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted:10 But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.11 For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways.

James speaks to the believers in humble circumstances, urging them to take pride in their high position. But the rich should take pride in their low position, as their wealth will fade away. He compares the rich man to a wildflower that withers under the scorching heat.

Understanding Temptation  (Verses 12-15)

12 Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.15 Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

James blesses the man who perseveres under trial. Upon standing the test, that person will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him. He clarifies that God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone. People are tempted by their own evil desire, which leads to sin and, ultimately, to death.

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com