James Part 2: The Dynamics of Temptation

James: True Faith in Action – Week 2

Read James 1:13-18

Watch “James 1:13-18” by Francis Chan on Rightnow Media.

Discuss

In the video, Francis suggests that there are some people who think that “Once I become a Christian, all of my evil desires will just leave me.”

• What do you think of this suggestion?
• Have you ever known someone who has held this kind of belief?

Francis goes on to say that people like to blame others for their own evil desires.

• Why might people like to do this?

Why do you think some of James’ readers might have started saying that “God is tempting me?” Is there any benefit to this way of thinking?

James uses the metaphor of a stillbirth in verse 15 to describe what happens when we give in to temptation.

• What do you think of this image?
• What is James saying here, by using such a shocking example?

Consider again the background of this letter. This was a word to Christians who were scattered, isolated, persecuted, and afraid. In such a state, the temptation to return to an old way of life would have been incredibly strong.

• What is James’ response to this situation?

Many people come to faith in families where there are no other Christians; work in industries where faith is never openly discussed or respected; engage in social and cultural activities where most others present are of a different faith, or none at all.

• What would you say to a Christian who is in that kind of circumstance?

Conclude in prayer. Pray especially for those in your group who are regularly in spaces where they are the only Christian person present.