This week we will look at the passage which is really at the heart of the Epistle of James, and it is one of the greatest in the New Testament.  We will dig into James 4:1-12 as we talk about how we move “From Conflict To Peace.”

Remember, James is writing to multiple congregations of believers who have been scattered from Jerusalem.  Reading between the lines of the letter, it is pretty clear that word has gotten back to James about conflicts brewing out there in the churches. 

This is why he spends so much time on the tongue (1:19; 1:26: 3:1-12).  But what comes out of the tongue comes from the heart.  Selfishness in relationships with people, and the conflicts which stem from it, point to a deeper spiritual problem…a problem in our relationship with God. 

This is such a powerful text!  It tells us what leads to peace in our horizontal relationships with others and our vertical relationship with God.  I can’t wait to mine its treasures with you on Sunday.  See you then!   

By His Grace, For His Glory, To The Nations

Dr. Thurman Hayes, Jr.