Daily Readings (Page 343)

What do the three illustrations here (horse’s bit, ship’s rudder, fire’s spark) each reveal about the tongue’s power?  

Why is a stricter judgement placed upon teachers? How does this rap on teachers relate to taming the tongue?

How does Paul’s argument in Rom 3:28 differ from James’ point in 2:24?  What kind of faith is each criticizing?

In what way does vv.18-19 help us to prevent our faith from becoming “so heavenly-minded that it has no earthly use”?  Is ours a “NATO” (“No Action, Talk Only”) faith? 

From 1:22-27 and 2:14-17, what evidence could be used to convict you if you were arrested for being a Christian? 

What does it mean by “mercy triumphs over judgment”?  How does this affect the way we relate to one another (cf. Eph 4:15)?

What change would happen if the “royal law” (v8) and “God’s favouritism” (cf. v5) are applied to the less privileged in our society?  How has favouritism in Christian circles affect you and those around you?    

James was writing to a community that was economically depressed.  Why should favouritism be a problem in this situation?         

What is the point of the mirror image in vv23-25 and how is this point reflected in “worthless” and “pure” religion (vv26-27)? 

What exactly is the “righteous life” that God desires (vv20,27)?  How is it produced and what would be its opposite?