James 1:1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting. 1. The truest relation to Christ is founded in grace, and we are far happier in receiving Him by faith than in touching Him by blood; and he that endeavours to do His will may be as sure of Christ's love as if he were linked to Him by the nearest outward relations. 2. It is no dishonour to the highest to be Christ's servant. James, whom Paul calls "a pillar," calls himself "a servant of Christ"; and David, a king, says (Psalm 84:10). 3. The highest in repute and office in the Church yet are still but servants. 4. In all services we must honour the Father and the Son also (John 5:23). Do duties so as you may honour Christ in them; and so — (1) Look for their acceptance in Christ. Oh! it would be sad if we were only to look to God the Father in duties. But now it is said that "in Christ we have access with boldness and confidence" (Ephesians 3:12), for in Him those attributes which are in themselves terrible become comfortable; as water, which is salt in the ocean, being strained through the earth, becometh sweet in the rivers, that in God which, out of Christ, striketh terror into the soul, in Christ begets a confidence. (2) Look for your assistance from Him. You serve God in Christ — (a) When you serve God through Christ (Philippians 4:13). (b) When you have an eye to the concernments of Christ in all your service of God (2 Corinthians 5:15). (c) When all is done for Christ's sake (2 Corinthians 5:14). (T. Manton.) Parallel Verses KJV: James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting. |
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