James: A Handbook on Holiness

The Outcome of Trials

James 1:12-18

General outline of chapter 1:

1. The Way to Holiness: The Divine Perspective 1:2-27

   1. The Trial-Temptation Complex 1:2-18

      1. The Confrontation with Trials: Joy & Wisdom 1:2-8

      2. The Range of Trials: Poverty & Riches 1:9-11

      3. The Outcome of Trials: Confidence, Defeat, Victory 1:12-18

James 1:13-18

Confidence in Trials

12 Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.

Defeat in Trials

13 Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am being tempted by God," for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. 14 But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire. 15 Then desire when it has conceived gives birth to sin, and sin when it is fully grown brings forth death.

Victory in Trials

16 Do not be deceived, my beloved brothers. 17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. 18 Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creation.

Discussion Questions:

1. V. 12 – Why does James mention "the crown of life?" Compare with 1 Cor. 9:25; 2 Tim. 4:8; 1 Pet. 5:4; Rev. 2:10; 3:11.

2. Vv. 13-15 – The words "test/trial" and "tempt" are the same word in the Greek—peirazo. Does God test people? What is His goal in testing? Who tempts people? What is his goal in tempting?

3. Vv. 16-18 – In salvation "we have only God to thank, and only ourselves to blame." What reasons do these verses give to do so?