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Salutation

Chapter 1

Greeting.[a] James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes of the Dispersion: greetings.

Exhortation To Practice Patience

Trials—the Test of a Faith in Progress.[b] My brethren, consider it a cause of great joy whenever you endure various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith will develop perseverance.

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Footnotes

  1. James 1:1 Only this verse gives the writing the form of a letter. Concerning the author and the addressees, see the Introduction. Servant: see note on Rom 1:1. Twelve tribes: they prefigured the new People of God (see Acts 26:7; Rev 7:4).
  2. James 1:2 The Christian is exposed to the opposition of society. Joy . . . various trials: a teaching based on the words of Jesus (see Mt 5:10-12; Jn 10:11).

James,(A) a servant of God(B) and of the Lord Jesus Christ,

To the twelve tribes(C) scattered(D) among the nations:

Greetings.(E)

Trials and Temptations

Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds,(F) because you know that the testing of your faith(G) produces perseverance.(H)

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Footnotes

  1. James 1:2 The Greek word for brothers and sisters (adelphoi) refers here to believers, both men and women, as part of God’s family; also in verses 16 and 19; and in 2:1, 5, 14; 3:10, 12; 4:11; 5:7, 9, 10, 12, 19.