Jesus had at least 2 other siblings that we know about; James and Jude. James the Just, or a variation of James, brother of the Lord, according to the New Testament. He was an early leader of the Jerusalem Church of the Apostolic Age. He died as a martyr in AD 62 or 69.
The Apostle James authored the “Book of James” and is one of the greatest New Testament letters tying faith to righteous actions. A common phrase used is “faith without works is dead”. This phrase is especially important as is relates to the Apostle John’s comments in the Book of Revelation as the Bride prepares herself for the Bridegroom with “righteous acts” (Revelation 19:5-8).
The purpose for the “righteous acts” is to bring us to maturity and perfection in the image of Christ. Therefore, we must embrace all that is before us, good and bad to press on to maturity. James is writing to believers who are scattered all over the then known world because of violent and deadly persecution. Here is how James opens his letter; James 1:2-7(ESV)
“ 2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. 6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. 7 That person should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. 8 Such a person is double-minded and unstable in all they do.”
It is no easy task to follow Jesus; it involves a daily dying to self, to self-ambition and self-righteousness. It is humbly allowing God to use the pressures of this life to press and conform us into His Image. What is important is to realize is that this is a spiritual work which is enhanced by acts of “obedience” with a life of humility. Living a life of continual praise, thanksgiving, praying in the Spirit and worship are like supplements that assist in our spirtual transformation. But there is nothing like a trial or test to see if the fruit has taken root or it is just superficial foilage that gets blown off through the winds and rains of this life.
The early church had no easy task, they were met with tremendous persecution by the Jewish leaders and the Roman Empire. It lasted for many years. James was writing to believers with much at stake. James, Himself being martyred in 62 AD. In today’s language, he is saying “hang in there”! Let their example of perseverance encourage each of us who might be facing hardship. Jesus, Himself warned us that these days would be difficult. In Matthew 24, He says this to His disciples in verses 21 and 13;
“12 And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold. 13 But the one who endures to the end will be saved.”
The end results of these difficulties will be worth it as He will allow us to reflect His image to a lost world in the days ahead. This final chapter of history will reveal a people who perfectly reflect the Image of Jesus. A mature people who want nothing more than more of Him.
Don’t allow trials to wear you out, instead allow them to fan the flame of passion for Jesus. The promise is hearing Him say “well done” and giving you the “Crown of Life” when we see Him face to face. It will be all worth it.
“Lord, I lift up all my brothers and sisters that might be facing great trial and difficulty presently. These last few months of pandemic have only exacerbated pressure in our culture. Give us the grace and measure of faith to allow all these things to work out the flesh in each of us and transform us into your image. We want to look like You, Jesus. Our desire is to finish well and strong and to hear your loving commendation “Well done”. I thank You for seeing us through in Jesus Name, Amen!”