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Introduction to the Epistle of James The
author of this book identifies himself as

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James, and most likely, this James was the
half-brother of Jesus.

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At first, James did not believe in Jesus,
and even challenged Him.

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Later, he became a leader in the newly
formed group of believers called the

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Church.

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James was one of the earliest New
Testament books written, probably sometime

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before A.D.

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50.

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The book of James has a distinctively
Jewish character, which suggests it was

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composed when the Church was still
predominantly Jewish.

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James addressed the first Jewish followers
of Jesus who had been scattered throughout

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the Mediterranean world because of
persecution.

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In the face of difficulties, they were
tempted to simply say they had faith

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without showing it made any difference in
how they lived.

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James tells them plainly that genuine
faith will produce good deeds.

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Listen now to these helpful words about
authentic faith.