The Letter of James

Series: The Pillar New Testament Commentary

Few New Testament books have been as con­troversial and misunderstood as the letter of James. Its place in the canon was contested by some early Christians, and the reformer Martin Luther called it an “epistle of straw.” The sometimes negative view of the letter among modern theologians, however, is not shared by ordinary believers. Well known and often quoted, James is concise, intensely practical, and filled with memorable metaphors and illustrations. As such, it has become one of the most popular New Testament books in the church.

This highly original commentary on James by respected New Testament scholar Douglas Moo combines penetrat­ing scholarship with the simplicity of style and pastoral tone characteristic of James itself. After discussing such background issues as authorship, genre, purpose, structure, and theology, Moo provides a verse-by-verse exposition of the text that leads readers to the heart of James’s message—wholehearted commitment to Christ. In addition to expounding the meaning of James, Moo also takes care to provide practical insights for applying that meaning in the church today.

At once scholarly and accessible, this vol­ume has become a standard commentary on James. The second edition is based upon the newest version of the NIV and incorporates the latest scholarship. It has been expanded, updated, and revised throughout.

Table of Contents

Introduction

     The Letter in the Church

     Nature and Genre

     Author

     Occasion and Date

     Context of Thought and Theology

     Structure and Theme

Outline of Letter

Letter Opening: Overview of Pastoral Concerns (1:1–27)

     Address and Greeting (1:1)

     The Pursuit of Spiritual Wholeness (1:2–18)

     Characteristics of Spiritual Wholeness (1:19–27)

Letter Body: Development of Pastoral Concerns (2:1–5:11)

     Discrimination against the Poor and the “Royal Law” (2:1–13)

     The Faith That Saves (2:14–26)

     Spiritual Wholeness, Speech, and Community Harmony (3:1–4:12)

     Arrogance, the Abuse of Wealth, and the Christian Response (4:13–5:11)

Letter Closing: Final Pastoral Concerns (5:12–20)

     Oaths and Truthfulness (5:12)

     Prayer and Healing (5:13–18)

     A Concluding Summons to Action (5:19–20)