Drew

Q4. (1:26-27) Why does James make taming the tongue and caring for the poor the prime tests of pure religion? Why not the quality of our quiet time or worship? Because they are everyday tests of "loving ones neighbor", that we as Christians face. Its all to easy to let hurtful words slip, and to pass judgment on others. Our personal worship time does not reflect on how we love others. Still i think its very important to practice that quality time. So that we may ask for both forgiveness, and wisdom.

Q3. What is this "perfect law" that James mentions? How would you define it? How does it relate to the "royal law" (2:8)? In what sense does it bring liberty? It is love for the Lord, and ones neighbor. The "perfect law" is how the Lord would have us live. It should not be forgotten, but applied every day in our lives. Liberty comes from being free from the ties of sin. Also by the Law's simplicity. "love your neighbor as yourself" (2:8)

Q2. (1:22) Why are we so easily fooled into thinking that listening to Bible teaching means that we are living out righteous lives? What is the nature of the self-deception? Its easier to just listen, but more difficult to put into practice. Takes a lot more will and effort. Some people seem to think it acceptable to only act like a Christian for an hour every Sunday. While spending the rest of the time talking the talk, but not walking it. It can be hard to admit our own faults, I think this is self-deception. To fool yourself into thinking your doing the right thing. Listening to the Word is only the first step. The Word needs to be put into practice every day.

Q1. (1:18) In what sense are we given spiritual birth by the "word of truth"? What does spiritual life have to do with the Word? I struggled a lot with this question. So I hope im on the right track. To listen to the "word of truth" is to have faith in the Lord. He lets us see how we need to live our lives, through complete faith as well as action. In doing this we are "born again". A spiritual life is lived by following the "Word". If we ignore His Word, then we fall to our own desires and sin. Living in this way only leads to death(1:15)

Q2. (1:13-15) Why do people blame God for evil? Does God tempt us with evil? Does he tempt sinful people with evil? Why does he allow people to sin? Why does he allow evil to exist at all? I think people blame God because they lack wisdom and don't know any better. They do not own up, and take accountability for their own actions. - God does NOT tempt us with evil, nor does he tempt sinful people. We are tempted by our own sinful desires.- He lets us have our own free will. To be tempted and tried, so that we may overcome and choose the lord.- Evil is allowed so that we are given a choice. Then he shines his light so that we see him and follow his path. Being allowed to both make, and overcome mistakes makes us stronger Christians. If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5)

Q1. (1:2-4) What value have trials had in your life? Have you let Satan destroy you with those trials? Or allowed God to refine you? How have you changed? Trails have had a tremendous value in my life. I think up until recently, I did let satan destroy with those trails. I found myself turning to alcohol, anger, and jealousy. But through those trails I came to realize how important is to let the lord work in your life, in every aspect. They have allowed me to get on the path of a maturing Christian. For that I am so thankful.

Hey everyone, my name is Drew. Im new to online bible studies and am glad to be a part of this. Currently im with the Army and deployed in Iraq. Back home is central California. Im married and we are expecting our first little one in late May. We thought this study would be a cool thing we could do together online. While at the same time, growing closer to god.