Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/chunks-the-letter-of-james Chunks Bible Mini-Podcasts are designed to help you have a richer and more personal understanding of the teaching of Scripture. Each podcast focuses on a particular book or text, and each episode is only 5 to 10 minutes long, so you can listen whenever you have a few minutes to dig in. This podcast focuses on the New Testament letter of James, and is entitled ”Working Faith.” James insists that anyone who has truly received the gospel should show it in their conduct and character. He forcefully challenges his readers to reconsider the thoughtless, hurtful behaviors they take for granted, even down to the way they speak to one another. These are lessons we need in every age, including today. New episodes will drop Fridays until the book of James is finished. About your host: my name is Cameron Lee. I am a Professor of Family Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary, where I’ve taught since 1986; I am also a Certified Family Life Educator and a licensed minister and teaching pastor. Writing is my passion: I’ve written or co-authored nine books and several articles, and have been blogging thrice weekly since 2011 at Squinting Through Fog (the-fog-blog.com). Copyright 2023 Cameron Lee. All rights reserved. fdea8877-671f-5cde-b53f-bd083cd0057a yes en Tue, 28 Apr 2026 07:27:55 -0700 Tue, 28 Apr 2026 07:28:30 -0700 https://chunksjames.transistor.fm/ https://img.transistorcdn.com/49gHiXmR5qrKTFy7hlCtBm3-XAcsQGKwU9Gyi4ZdE_c/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS8wYzJk/Nzk0NzRkZTcyZjRi/YjVhNzg4NzNlMDcy/MTRjNS5qcGc.jpg https://chunksjames.transistor.fm/ serial Cameron Lee Chunks Bible Mini-Podcasts are designed to help you have a richer and more personal understanding of the teaching of Scripture. Each podcast focuses on a particular book or text, and each episode is only 5 to 10 minutes long, so you can listen whenever you have a few minutes to dig in. This podcast focuses on the New Testament letter of James, and is entitled ”Working Faith.” James insists that anyone who has truly received the gospel should show it in their conduct and character. He forcefully challenges his readers to reconsider the thoughtless, hurtful behaviors they take for granted, even down to the way they speak to one another. These are lessons we need in every age, including today. New episodes will drop Fridays until the book of James is finished. About your host: my name is Cameron Lee. I am a Professor of Family Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary, where I’ve taught since 1986; I am also a Certified Family Life Educator and a licensed minister and teaching pastor. Writing is my passion: I’ve written or co-authored nine books and several articles, and have been blogging thrice weekly since 2011 at Squinting Through Fog (the-fog-blog.com). Chunks Bible Mini-Podcasts are designed to help you have a richer and more personal understanding of the teaching of Scripture. drcameronlee No No 1 1 Episode 1: Show me full drcameronlee.podbean.com/07091f86-8af0-3659-bfc8-e94eba47bb41 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b74c6af0 This first episode introduces us to the main theme of James' letter: what is the right relationship between faith and works?

]]> This first episode introduces us to the main theme of James' letter: what is the right relationship between faith and works?

]]> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 18:30:42 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 310 This first episode introduces us to the main theme of James' letter: what is the right relationship between faith and works? This first episode introduces us to the main theme of James' letter: what is the right relationship between faith and works? No 2 2 Episode 2: Which James is James? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/1dc37fb8-a88e-38b3-ad3d-21e4cef34147 https://share.transistor.fm/s/37177ec5 There are several people in the Bible named James...which one wrote the letter that bears his name?

]]> There are several people in the Bible named James...which one wrote the letter that bears his name?

]]> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 18:31:24 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 303 There are several people in the Bible named James...which one wrote the letter that bears his name? There are several people in the Bible named James...which one wrote the letter that bears his name? No 3 3 Episode 3: Brother from another father full drcameronlee.podbean.com/c37fa4b9-cf10-326a-8af5-31205321f130 https://share.transistor.fm/s/517786fd The consensus among Bible scholars is that the author of the letter of James is the half-brother of Jesus. This episode explores what difference it might make to know this.

]]> The consensus among Bible scholars is that the author of the letter of James is the half-brother of Jesus. This episode explores what difference it might make to know this.

]]> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 18:31:45 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 362 The consensus among Bible scholars is that the author of the letter of James is the half-brother of Jesus. This episode explores what difference it might make to know this. The consensus among Bible scholars is that the author of the letter of James is the half-brother of Jesus. This episode explores what difference it might make to know this. No 4 4 Episode 4: Church politics: it’s a thing full drcameronlee.podbean.com/320312b3-cd06-3490-a6b1-935e801efc97 https://share.transistor.fm/s/94214a90 This episode explores what we know about James from the New Testament, and how that affects the way we read his letter.

]]> This episode explores what we know about James from the New Testament, and how that affects the way we read his letter.

]]> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 18:32:05 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 376 This episode explores what we know about James from the New Testament, and how that affects the way we read his letter. This episode explores what we know about James from the New Testament, and how that affects the way we read his letter. No 5 5 Episode 5: You call that ”joy”? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/5a2b535b-5648-3015-af79-fc3a64e27853 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1ecf7650 James 1:2-4 speaks of trials as tests of our faith and occasions for joy. How can this be? And what does James mean by "joy"?

]]> James 1:2-4 speaks of trials as tests of our faith and occasions for joy. How can this be? And what does James mean by "joy"?

]]> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 18:32:30 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 370 James 1:2-4 speaks of trials as tests of our faith and occasions for joy. How can this be? And what does James mean by "joy"? James 1:2-4 speaks of trials as tests of our faith and occasions for joy. How can this be? And what does James mean by "joy"? No 6 6 Episode 6: Perfection and perfectionism full drcameronlee.podbean.com/0e7d5584-9b91-36b8-95ea-7828692f68a4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c201f255 Both James and Jesus speak of Christians as becoming "perfect," which can be a little daunting--particularly if we already struggle with perfectionism. How should we understand this?

]]> Both James and Jesus speak of Christians as becoming "perfect," which can be a little daunting--particularly if we already struggle with perfectionism. How should we understand this?

]]> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 18:32:52 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 373 Both James and Jesus speak of Christians as becoming "perfect," which can be a little daunting--particularly if we already struggle with perfectionism. How should we understand this? Both James and Jesus speak of Christians as becoming "perfect," which can be a little daunting--particularly if we already struggle with perfectionism. How should we understand this? No 7 7 Episode 7: Let faith do its work full drcameronlee.podbean.com/4b52c582-943d-338f-b54e-72eb37458f18 https://share.transistor.fm/s/dadd88bb Again, the main theme of James is the relationship between faith and works. In this episode, we look at both James 1:2-4 and 2:14-18 to see how Christians are like teabags...

]]> Again, the main theme of James is the relationship between faith and works. In this episode, we look at both James 1:2-4 and 2:14-18 to see how Christians are like teabags...

]]> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 18:33:09 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 358 Again, the main theme of James is the relationship between faith and works. In this episode, we look at both James 1:2-4 and 2:14-18 to see how Christians are like teabags... Again, the main theme of James is the relationship between faith and works. In this episode, we look at both James 1:2-4 and 2:14-18 to see how Christians are like teabags... No 8 8 Episode 8: Got wisdom? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/3a45ec99-f3ed-3ba0-8b55-d68887b4260c https://share.transistor.fm/s/18b7d4ce James 1:5-8 speaks of wisdom as a gift from God, given freely. But what kind of wisdom does he mean?

]]> James 1:5-8 speaks of wisdom as a gift from God, given freely. But what kind of wisdom does he mean?

]]> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 18:33:25 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 305 James 1:5-8 speaks of wisdom as a gift from God, given freely. But what kind of wisdom does he mean? James 1:5-8 speaks of wisdom as a gift from God, given freely. But what kind of wisdom does he mean? No 9 9 Episode 9: Help my unbelief! full drcameronlee.podbean.com/644585a0-e19e-3f67-97dd-0d241674e1c5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/39a4a74a When James says that God gives the gift of wisdom, he also seems to say that we have to get the prayer right or we will get nothing from God. Is this what he means? This episode uses the story of the desperate father in Mark 9 to suggest a different way of understanding James' meaning.

]]> When James says that God gives the gift of wisdom, he also seems to say that we have to get the prayer right or we will get nothing from God. Is this what he means? This episode uses the story of the desperate father in Mark 9 to suggest a different way of understanding James' meaning.

]]> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 18:33:45 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 384 When James says that God gives the gift of wisdom, he also seems to say that we have to get the prayer right or we will get nothing from God. Is this what he means? This episode uses the story of the desperate father in Mark 9 to suggest a different way of understanding James' meaning. When James says that God gives the gift of wisdom, he also seems to say that we have to get the prayer right or we will get nothing from God. Is this what he means? This episode uses the story of the desperate father in Mark 9 to suggest a different way o No 10 10 Episode 10: Of two minds full drcameronlee.podbean.com/9b657cb3-51d3-35dd-a0c5-24c8a30423f1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fa641f6c James 1:5-8 contrasts faith with doubt, saying that a person who doubts is unstable and "double-minded." In this episode, I suggest that "doubt" is not the opposite of belief, but believing two or more conflicting things and vacillating between them.

]]> James 1:5-8 contrasts faith with doubt, saying that a person who doubts is unstable and "double-minded." In this episode, I suggest that "doubt" is not the opposite of belief, but believing two or more conflicting things and vacillating between them.

]]> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 18:34:06 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 408 James 1:5-8 contrasts faith with doubt, saying that a person who doubts is unstable and "double-minded." In this episode, I suggest that "doubt" is not the opposite of belief, but believing two or more conflicting things and vacillating between them. James 1:5-8 contrasts faith with doubt, saying that a person who doubts is unstable and "double-minded." In this episode, I suggest that "doubt" is not the opposite of belief, but believing two or more conflicting things and vacillating between them. No 11 11 Episode 11: Like a rock full drcameronlee.podbean.com/7058708f-6e3a-39cd-9362-481889a9c6a1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/776611d8 We've been looking at what James says about doubt, and wondering whether doubt disqualifies us from receiving anything from God. We used the story of the desperate father to argue otherwise. In this episode, we'll use the story of Peter walking on water to make a similar point.

]]> We've been looking at what James says about doubt, and wondering whether doubt disqualifies us from receiving anything from God. We used the story of the desperate father to argue otherwise. In this episode, we'll use the story of Peter walking on water to make a similar point.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:17:24 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 399 We've been looking at what James says about doubt, and wondering whether doubt disqualifies us from receiving anything from God. We used the story of the desperate father to argue otherwise. In this episode, we'll use the story of Peter walking on water to make a similar point. We've been looking at what James says about doubt, and wondering whether doubt disqualifies us from receiving anything from God. We used the story of the desperate father to argue otherwise. In this episode, we'll use the story of Peter walking on water t No 12 12 Episode 12: What matters is what lasts full drcameronlee.podbean.com/323ee33d-01d3-3b45-ba5e-968a08b27db1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/acadc715 James 1:9-11 can be a little puzzling: he says the poor have high status and the rich have low status. And he says this in the context of predicting just how quickly the wealthy will "waste away." What does he mean? In this episode, we explore how James is trying to shift the way his readers think.

]]> James 1:9-11 can be a little puzzling: he says the poor have high status and the rich have low status. And he says this in the context of predicting just how quickly the wealthy will "waste away." What does he mean? In this episode, we explore how James is trying to shift the way his readers think.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:20:22 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 368 James 1:9-11 can be a little puzzling: he says the poor have high status and the rich have low status. And he says this in the context of predicting just how quickly the wealthy will "waste away." What does he mean? In this episode, we explore how James is trying to shift the way his readers think. James 1:9-11 can be a little puzzling: he says the poor have high status and the rich have low status. And he says this in the context of predicting just how quickly the wealthy will "waste away." What does he mean? In this episode, we explore how James i No 13 13 Episode 13: What’s your currency? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/3d03fb17-0ff1-3446-9622-d1a959142da9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4f7d4648 Every culture has its "social currency," the things that show who's got more status (and who doesn't). One of the problems James sees in the church is that Christians seem to value and pursue all the same things that people do in the surrounding culture. We'll begin exploring that idea in this episode.

]]> Every culture has its "social currency," the things that show who's got more status (and who doesn't). One of the problems James sees in the church is that Christians seem to value and pursue all the same things that people do in the surrounding culture. We'll begin exploring that idea in this episode.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:23:19 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 357 Every culture has its "social currency," the things that show who's got more status (and who doesn't). One of the problems James sees in the church is that Christians seem to value and pursue all the same things that people do in the surrounding culture. We'll begin exploring that idea in this episode. Every culture has its "social currency," the things that show who's got more status (and who doesn't). One of the problems James sees in the church is that Christians seem to value and pursue all the same things that people do in the surrounding culture. No 14 14 Episode 14: From double- to single-minded full drcameronlee.podbean.com/2bf9e7c9-0692-39a8-af3a-3a10b1500c03 https://share.transistor.fm/s/84264d38 In a previous episode, we discussed doubt as being of two minds. Here, we connect how James thinks about this back to the teaching of his brother Jesus, and will continue to do so in future episodes.

]]> In a previous episode, we discussed doubt as being of two minds. Here, we connect how James thinks about this back to the teaching of his brother Jesus, and will continue to do so in future episodes.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:25:51 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 375 In a previous episode, we discussed doubt as being of two minds. Here, we connect how James thinks about this back to the teaching of his brother Jesus, and will continue to do so in future episodes. In a previous episode, we discussed doubt as being of two minds. Here, we connect how James thinks about this back to the teaching of his brother Jesus, and will continue to do so in future episodes. No 15 15 Episode 15: Trials or temptations? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/6bc946ab-192a-31b4-a0f7-b972dd5275e6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2b99b666 James 1:13-15 teaches that we shouldn't blame temptation on God. But different translations of the letter give us different readings; the same word can be translated as either trial, or test, or temptation. Which is the right reading, and what is James trying to say? We'll explore these questions.

]]> James 1:13-15 teaches that we shouldn't blame temptation on God. But different translations of the letter give us different readings; the same word can be translated as either trial, or test, or temptation. Which is the right reading, and what is James trying to say? We'll explore these questions.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:28:36 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 338 James 1:13-15 teaches that we shouldn't blame temptation on God. But different translations of the letter give us different readings; the same word can be translated as either trial, or test, or temptation. Which is the right reading, and what is James trying to say? We'll explore these questions. James 1:13-15 teaches that we shouldn't blame temptation on God. But different translations of the letter give us different readings; the same word can be translated as either trial, or test, or temptation. Which is the right reading, and what is James tr No 16 16 Episode 16: God is light full drcameronlee.podbean.com/67aaecca-0672-37f6-abe2-bf286a1ec1ff https://share.transistor.fm/s/331c1bea James 1:16-17 portrays God as the generous giver of good gifts (so don't blame him for temptation!). He also tells us that God is the creator even of the stars we see at night. The world can be a dark place; don't we need to know that God is light?

]]> James 1:16-17 portrays God as the generous giver of good gifts (so don't blame him for temptation!). He also tells us that God is the creator even of the stars we see at night. The world can be a dark place; don't we need to know that God is light?

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:32:14 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 385 James 1:16-17 portrays God as the generous giver of good gifts (so don't blame him for temptation!). He also tells us that God is the creator even of the stars we see at night. The world can be a dark place; don't we need to know that God is light? James 1:16-17 portrays God as the generous giver of good gifts (so don't blame him for temptation!). He also tells us that God is the creator even of the stars we see at night. The world can be a dark place; don't we need to know that God is light? No 17 17 Episode 17: The devil made me do it? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/dc95e9ea-2c3b-3a99-9f32-6feb68073870 https://share.transistor.fm/s/666c5254 It's always tempting to blame our mistakes on others, sometimes even the devil. But as we learn in James 1:14-15, it is better to understand temptation as coming neither from God nor the devil, but from our own "cravings."

]]> It's always tempting to blame our mistakes on others, sometimes even the devil. But as we learn in James 1:14-15, it is better to understand temptation as coming neither from God nor the devil, but from our own "cravings."

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:34:43 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 367 It's always tempting to blame our mistakes on others, sometimes even the devil. But as we learn in James 1:14-15, it is better to understand temptation as coming neither from God nor the devil, but from our own "cravings." It's always tempting to blame our mistakes on others, sometimes even the devil. But as we learn in James 1:14-15, it is better to understand temptation as coming neither from God nor the devil, but from our own "cravings." No 18 18 Episode 18: The long view full drcameronlee.podbean.com/648f6d4d-9aa1-3e96-9c15-d76b42ab32e8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/88e27be6 You knew that sooner or later I was going to have to use a theological word you may never have heard before: that word is eschatology. It refers to how we should understand the "last things" or the last days. This isn't the place to get into all the theological debates over tribulation, the Second Coming, and the like. Instead, in this episode, we use James 1:18 to show the importance of always taking the long view, of seeing our present in light of God's future.

]]> You knew that sooner or later I was going to have to use a theological word you may never have heard before: that word is eschatology. It refers to how we should understand the "last things" or the last days. This isn't the place to get into all the theological debates over tribulation, the Second Coming, and the like. Instead, in this episode, we use James 1:18 to show the importance of always taking the long view, of seeing our present in light of God's future.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:38:27 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 372 You knew that sooner or later I was going to have to use a theological word you may never have heard before: that word is eschatology. It refers to how we should understand the "last things" or the last days. This isn't the place to get into all the theological debates over tribulation, the Second Coming, and the like. Instead, in this episode, we use James 1:18 to show the importance of always taking the long view, of seeing our present in light of God's future. You knew that sooner or later I was going to have to use a theological word you may never have heard before: that word is eschatology. It refers to how we should understand the "last things" or the last days. This isn't the place to get into all the theol No 19 19 Episode 19: Quick to anger, slow to listen (part 1) full drcameronlee.podbean.com/e921aa52-12c5-3dce-93ec-21d65617ceb8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/664345e5 That title represents what we often do in relationships: we get angry quickly, and don't listen to each other. But it's exactly opposite of what James teaches in James 1:19-20. This episode is the first of three parts on why we should do a better job of listening, and how we might do it.

]]> That title represents what we often do in relationships: we get angry quickly, and don't listen to each other. But it's exactly opposite of what James teaches in James 1:19-20. This episode is the first of three parts on why we should do a better job of listening, and how we might do it.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:41:02 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 337 That title represents what we often do in relationships: we get angry quickly, and don't listen to each other. But it's exactly opposite of what James teaches in James 1:19-20. This episode is the first of three parts on why we should do a better job of listening, and how we might do it. That title represents what we often do in relationships: we get angry quickly, and don't listen to each other. But it's exactly opposite of what James teaches in James 1:19-20. This episode is the first of three parts on why we should do a better job of l No 20 20 Episode 20: Quick to anger, slow to listen (part 2) full drcameronlee.podbean.com/02c241f6-7105-3466-a618-b2e2559a912d https://share.transistor.fm/s/90449bb0 Why do we get angry quickly? Why is it so hard to listen? This episode brings in a bit of the brain science behind out angry outbursts, and ties it back to James' teaching on double-mindedness and his vision for the church.

]]> Why do we get angry quickly? Why is it so hard to listen? This episode brings in a bit of the brain science behind out angry outbursts, and ties it back to James' teaching on double-mindedness and his vision for the church.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:53:09 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 387 Why do we get angry quickly? Why is it so hard to listen? This episode brings in a bit of the brain science behind out angry outbursts, and ties it back to James' teaching on double-mindedness and his vision for the church. Why do we get angry quickly? Why is it so hard to listen? This episode brings in a bit of the brain science behind out angry outbursts, and ties it back to James' teaching on double-mindedness and his vision for the church. No 21 21 Episode 21: Quick to anger, slow to listen (part 3) full drcameronlee.podbean.com/fb3c8d1c-d9ee-3007-b501-fce3dda8ff1b https://share.transistor.fm/s/a6cbbec0 In this episode, I draw upon some of my own work as a minister and marriage educator to give you some simple, practical guidelines for learning to listen better.

]]> In this episode, I draw upon some of my own work as a minister and marriage educator to give you some simple, practical guidelines for learning to listen better.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:55:03 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 404 In this episode, I draw upon some of my own work as a minister and marriage educator to give you some simple, practical guidelines for learning to listen better. In this episode, I draw upon some of my own work as a minister and marriage educator to give you some simple, practical guidelines for learning to listen better. No 22 22 Episode 22: Real righteousness full drcameronlee.podbean.com/552b2028-c9c2-306f-9132-1812cc7373c3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e3cfdda6 As we've seen, James 1:19-20 teaches that we should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. This episode examines the rest of what James says in these verses: that anger doesn't produce God's righteousness. We'll look at what James means by this, again linking his thought back to the teaching of Jesus.

]]> As we've seen, James 1:19-20 teaches that we should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. This episode examines the rest of what James says in these verses: that anger doesn't produce God's righteousness. We'll look at what James means by this, again linking his thought back to the teaching of Jesus.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 07:58:50 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 353 As we've seen, James 1:19-20 teaches that we should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. This episode examines the rest of what James says in these verses: that anger doesn't produce God's righteousness. We'll look at what James means by this, again linking his thought back to the teaching of Jesus. As we've seen, James 1:19-20 teaches that we should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. This episode examines the rest of what James says in these verses: that anger doesn't produce God's righteousness. We'll look at what James me No 23 23 Episode 23: Finding fruit full drcameronlee.podbean.com/e10a9695-4578-3ae2-8e5a-360224019909 https://share.transistor.fm/s/66cb211c In the gospels, we see Jesus using horticultural metaphors (sowing seed, pruning grapevines) to speak of the Christian life. James does something similar in James 1:21, portraying the gospel as something planted deep within us. And as we'll see in this and future episodes, this becomes an important piece of James' teaching overall. If we have the gospel planted in us, shouldn't it bear appropriate fruit?

]]> In the gospels, we see Jesus using horticultural metaphors (sowing seed, pruning grapevines) to speak of the Christian life. James does something similar in James 1:21, portraying the gospel as something planted deep within us. And as we'll see in this and future episodes, this becomes an important piece of James' teaching overall. If we have the gospel planted in us, shouldn't it bear appropriate fruit?

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 08:01:34 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 305 In the gospels, we see Jesus using horticultural metaphors (sowing seed, pruning grapevines) to speak of the Christian life. James does something similar in James 1:21, portraying the gospel as something planted deep within us. And as we'll see in this and future episodes, this becomes an important piece of James' teaching overall. If we have the gospel planted in us, shouldn't it bear appropriate fruit? In the gospels, we see Jesus using horticultural metaphors (sowing seed, pruning grapevines) to speak of the Christian life. James does something similar in James 1:21, portraying the gospel as something planted deep within us. And as we'll see in this an No 24 24 Episode 24: Gazing in a mirror full drcameronlee.podbean.com/d33eb476-8746-32ff-8964-fb40ca9afa1b https://share.transistor.fm/s/29547c13 James 1:22-24 teaches that we must not only hear the gospel, but do what it says. He uses the metaphor of a mirror: don't we look in a mirror to see what we look like? What would be the point if we didn't do anything about what we see?

]]> James 1:22-24 teaches that we must not only hear the gospel, but do what it says. He uses the metaphor of a mirror: don't we look in a mirror to see what we look like? What would be the point if we didn't do anything about what we see?

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 08:04:32 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 317 James 1:22-24 teaches that we must not only hear the gospel, but do what it says. He uses the metaphor of a mirror: don't we look in a mirror to see what we look like? What would be the point if we didn't do anything about what we see? James 1:22-24 teaches that we must not only hear the gospel, but do what it says. He uses the metaphor of a mirror: don't we look in a mirror to see what we look like? What would be the point if we didn't do anything about what we see? No 25 25 Episode 25: Law and freedom full drcameronlee.podbean.com/761a2565-2f9c-32d7-962f-d888fb58bbfd https://share.transistor.fm/s/129889db Depending on our cultural values, we may find it awkward to hold the words "law" and "freedom" together. But in James 1:25, the apostle speaks of "the law of freedom" and links it to blessing. What does he mean? We'll explore this in this episode and the next.

]]> Depending on our cultural values, we may find it awkward to hold the words "law" and "freedom" together. But in James 1:25, the apostle speaks of "the law of freedom" and links it to blessing. What does he mean? We'll explore this in this episode and the next.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 08:07:24 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 397 Depending on our cultural values, we may find it awkward to hold the words "law" and "freedom" together. But in James 1:25, the apostle speaks of "the law of freedom" and links it to blessing. What does he mean? We'll explore this in this episode and the next. Depending on our cultural values, we may find it awkward to hold the words "law" and "freedom" together. But in James 1:25, the apostle speaks of "the law of freedom" and links it to blessing. What does he mean? We'll explore this in this episode and the No 26 26 Episode 26: Freedom isn’t free full drcameronlee.podbean.com/569d0415-b494-3546-95cb-413802699642 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2d9a7bee In the previous episode, we discussed how the distinction between "freedom from" and "freedom to" might help us understand what James is teaching. In this episode, we link this back to what the apostle Paul teaches in the book of Romans, remembering that our freedom from sin came at a price.

]]> In the previous episode, we discussed how the distinction between "freedom from" and "freedom to" might help us understand what James is teaching. In this episode, we link this back to what the apostle Paul teaches in the book of Romans, remembering that our freedom from sin came at a price.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 08:10:17 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 430 In the previous episode, we discussed how the distinction between "freedom from" and "freedom to" might help us understand what James is teaching. In this episode, we link this back to what the apostle Paul teaches in the book of Romans, remembering that our freedom from sin came at a price. In the previous episode, we discussed how the distinction between "freedom from" and "freedom to" might help us understand what James is teaching. In this episode, we link this back to what the apostle Paul teaches in the book of Romans, remembering that No 27 27 Episode 27: Speaking the truth in love, not anger full drcameronlee.podbean.com/15967fd3-bd1d-36fb-9782-324f5fdf8b8b https://share.transistor.fm/s/b5f598e2 We've already spent some time with James' teaching about being quick to listen and slow to speak. But the problem isn't just that we don't listen enough or speak too soon. The problem is that we don't control our tongues, and say things we shouldn't. As we'll see in this episode, James 1:26-27 teaches bluntly that people who think they're admirably religious but don't control what they say are just kidding themselves.

]]> We've already spent some time with James' teaching about being quick to listen and slow to speak. But the problem isn't just that we don't listen enough or speak too soon. The problem is that we don't control our tongues, and say things we shouldn't. As we'll see in this episode, James 1:26-27 teaches bluntly that people who think they're admirably religious but don't control what they say are just kidding themselves.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 08:13:15 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 389 We've already spent some time with James' teaching about being quick to listen and slow to speak. But the problem isn't just that we don't listen enough or speak too soon. The problem is that we don't control our tongues, and say things we shouldn't. As we'll see in this episode, James 1:26-27 teaches bluntly that people who think they're admirably religious but don't control what they say are just kidding themselves. We've already spent some time with James' teaching about being quick to listen and slow to speak. But the problem isn't just that we don't listen enough or speak too soon. The problem is that we don't control our tongues, and say things we shouldn't. As w No 28 28 Episode 28: The things we do for status full drcameronlee.podbean.com/44218b2f-2e5d-3675-bf37-18f1e2f58427 https://share.transistor.fm/s/24ec0ca6 Chapter 2 introduces one of the major concerns of the letter: in their pursuit of higher social status, Christians were mistreating each other. James 2:1-4 illustrates one particularly pernicious example of this: people fawned over the rich who visited the church but treated the poor with disrespect.

]]> Chapter 2 introduces one of the major concerns of the letter: in their pursuit of higher social status, Christians were mistreating each other. James 2:1-4 illustrates one particularly pernicious example of this: people fawned over the rich who visited the church but treated the poor with disrespect.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 08:17:07 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 366 Chapter 2 introduces one of the major concerns of the letter: in their pursuit of higher social status, Christians were mistreating each other. James 2:1-4 illustrates one particularly pernicious example of this: people fawned over the rich who visited the church but treated the poor with disrespect. Chapter 2 introduces one of the major concerns of the letter: in their pursuit of higher social status, Christians were mistreating each other. James 2:1-4 illustrates one particularly pernicious example of this: people fawned over the rich who visited th No 29 29 Episode 29: Inglorious glory full drcameronlee.podbean.com/9fa2fbbc-f715-3214-9e00-4b4e46a7a9e0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bc31f9a6 As we saw in the previous episode, Christians were showing favoritism toward the rich. In James 2:1, the apostle suggests that if people are doing that, they don't truly believe in "our glorious Lord Jesus Christ." But what does it mean to speak of a battered and crucified Savior as "glorious"?

]]> As we saw in the previous episode, Christians were showing favoritism toward the rich. In James 2:1, the apostle suggests that if people are doing that, they don't truly believe in "our glorious Lord Jesus Christ." But what does it mean to speak of a battered and crucified Savior as "glorious"?

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 08:20:20 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 389 As we saw in the previous episode, Christians were showing favoritism toward the rich. In James 2:1, the apostle suggests that if people are doing that, they don't truly believe in "our glorious Lord Jesus Christ." But what does it mean to speak of a battered and crucified Savior as "glorious"? As we saw in the previous episode, Christians were showing favoritism toward the rich. In James 2:1, the apostle suggests that if people are doing that, they don't truly believe in "our glorious Lord Jesus Christ." But what does it mean to speak of a batt No 30 30 Episode 30: Changing the way we see full drcameronlee.podbean.com/d8b3e40a-7dd8-3cea-8a9d-a92ba39e4ca0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1dc7f23e In previous episodes, we've explored the unjust favoritism believers were showing toward the rich. James 2:5-7 unmasks the hypocrisy of this behavior, pushing believers to learn to see people as God sees them, instead of through the lenses of what our culture teaches about social status.

]]> In previous episodes, we've explored the unjust favoritism believers were showing toward the rich. James 2:5-7 unmasks the hypocrisy of this behavior, pushing believers to learn to see people as God sees them, instead of through the lenses of what our culture teaches about social status.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 08:23:17 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 401 In previous episodes, we've explored the unjust favoritism believers were showing toward the rich. James 2:5-7 unmasks the hypocrisy of this behavior, pushing believers to learn to see people as God sees them, instead of through the lenses of what our culture teaches about social status. In previous episodes, we've explored the unjust favoritism believers were showing toward the rich. James 2:5-7 unmasks the hypocrisy of this behavior, pushing believers to learn to see people as God sees them, instead of through the lenses of what our cul No 31 31 Episode 31: Seen, safe, soothed full drcameronlee.podbean.com/9e39272e-b637-367d-8171-be23eb7e406b https://share.transistor.fm/s/e1e2092d We've seen how believers were giving preferential treatment to the rich and dishonoring the poor. This episode briefly explores what attachment theory and the example of Father Greg Boyle might teach us about the quality of Christian community that James might encourage.

]]> We've seen how believers were giving preferential treatment to the rich and dishonoring the poor. This episode briefly explores what attachment theory and the example of Father Greg Boyle might teach us about the quality of Christian community that James might encourage.

]]> Fri, 18 Aug 2023 07:45:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 406 We've seen how believers were giving preferential treatment to the rich and dishonoring the poor. This episode briefly explores what attachment theory and the example of Father Greg Boyle might teach us about the quality of Christian community that James might encourage. We've seen how believers were giving preferential treatment to the rich and dishonoring the poor. This episode briefly explores what attachment theory and the example of Father Greg Boyle might teach us about the quality of Christian community that James No 32 32 Episode 32: The threat of punishment full drcameronlee.podbean.com/79285560-4260-3bb3-ab6f-90bde782cb6a https://share.transistor.fm/s/7fb7502d What kind of father is our heavenly Father? To some of us, James 2:8-13 may sound a little threatening, with its emphasis on law and judgment. We'll need a few episodes to explore this passage, beginning with this one. Throughout, we will connect what James says back to the teaching of Jesus.

]]> What kind of father is our heavenly Father? To some of us, James 2:8-13 may sound a little threatening, with its emphasis on law and judgment. We'll need a few episodes to explore this passage, beginning with this one. Throughout, we will connect what James says back to the teaching of Jesus.

]]> Fri, 18 Aug 2023 07:46:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 338 What kind of father is our heavenly Father? To some of us, James 2:8-13 may sound a little threatening, with its emphasis on law and judgment. We'll need a few episodes to explore this passage, beginning with this one. Throughout, we will connect what James says back to the teaching of Jesus. What kind of father is our heavenly Father? To some of us, James 2:8-13 may sound a little threatening, with its emphasis on law and judgment. We'll need a few episodes to explore this passage, beginning with this one. Throughout, we will connect what Jam No 33 33 Episode 33: The law of love full drcameronlee.podbean.com/7795d78c-c97f-3682-80dd-7059e766ece0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7c1a6b1a "Love your neighbor," Jesus taught. But who is my neighbor? In this episode, we explore the relevance of Jesus' parable of the Good Samaritan for our understanding of James.

]]> "Love your neighbor," Jesus taught. But who is my neighbor? In this episode, we explore the relevance of Jesus' parable of the Good Samaritan for our understanding of James.

]]> Fri, 18 Aug 2023 07:50:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 399 "Love your neighbor," Jesus taught. But who is my neighbor? In this episode, we explore the relevance of Jesus' parable of the Good Samaritan for our understanding of James. "Love your neighbor," Jesus taught. But who is my neighbor? In this episode, we explore the relevance of Jesus' parable of the Good Samaritan for our understanding of James. No 34 34 Episode 34: Blessed are the merciful full drcameronlee.podbean.com/6717ff67-cb7f-3ac9-af53-cba7bd4d5252 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fe9f3a10 James 2:13 speaks of both judgment and mercy. This episode uses both the Lord's Prayer and Jesus' parable of the Unmerciful Servant as background to James' teaching.

]]> James 2:13 speaks of both judgment and mercy. This episode uses both the Lord's Prayer and Jesus' parable of the Unmerciful Servant as background to James' teaching.

]]> Fri, 18 Aug 2023 07:52:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 432 James 2:13 speaks of both judgment and mercy. This episode uses both the Lord's Prayer and Jesus' parable of the Unmerciful Servant as background to James' teaching. James 2:13 speaks of both judgment and mercy. This episode uses both the Lord's Prayer and Jesus' parable of the Unmerciful Servant as background to James' teaching. No 35 35 Episode 35: The whole enchilada full drcameronlee.podbean.com/1b56727e-057b-35aa-aec6-99105ced6eb1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1ea1c845 When James teaches about the "royal law" of loving one's neighbor, he echoes the teaching of the Sermon on the Mount, in which Jesus challenges his hearers' understanding of what it means to be righteous. That teaching may sound strenuously difficult! But understood rightly, it can actually be liberating...

]]> When James teaches about the "royal law" of loving one's neighbor, he echoes the teaching of the Sermon on the Mount, in which Jesus challenges his hearers' understanding of what it means to be righteous. That teaching may sound strenuously difficult! But understood rightly, it can actually be liberating...

]]> Fri, 18 Aug 2023 07:54:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 374 When James teaches about the "royal law" of loving one's neighbor, he echoes the teaching of the Sermon on the Mount, in which Jesus challenges his hearers' understanding of what it means to be righteous. That teaching may sound strenuously difficult! But understood rightly, it can actually be liberating... When James teaches about the "royal law" of loving one's neighbor, he echoes the teaching of the Sermon on the Mount, in which Jesus challenges his hearers' understanding of what it means to be righteous. That teaching may sound strenuously difficult! But No 36 36 Episode 36: Mercy versus judgment full drcameronlee.podbean.com/1f8f2cab-8acf-337b-af53-941e12473c04 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d9067e47 This episode completes our examination of James 2:8-13. There's a difference between an appropriate use of "judgment" and being judgmental or relating to people through our prejudice (pre-judgments). This distinction helps us understand what James means when he says that "mercy triumphs over judgment."

]]> This episode completes our examination of James 2:8-13. There's a difference between an appropriate use of "judgment" and being judgmental or relating to people through our prejudice (pre-judgments). This distinction helps us understand what James means when he says that "mercy triumphs over judgment."

]]> Fri, 18 Aug 2023 08:00:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 397 This episode completes our examination of James 2:8-13. There's a difference between an appropriate use of "judgment" and being judgmental or relating to people through our prejudice (pre-judgments). This distinction helps us understand what James means when he says that "mercy triumphs over judgment." This episode completes our examination of James 2:8-13. There's a difference between an appropriate use of "judgment" and being judgmental or relating to people through our prejudice (pre-judgments). This distinction helps us understand what James means w No 37 37 Episode 37: What good is your faith? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/cb7eed06-874b-31ae-a775-03bb9570bf1a https://share.transistor.fm/s/07abb0f9 In James 2:14-17, the apostle offers what is meant to be a ludicrous example of the failure of Christian compassion. He does this to make a point: if you say you have faith, shouldn't it make a difference to how you treat others?

]]> In James 2:14-17, the apostle offers what is meant to be a ludicrous example of the failure of Christian compassion. He does this to make a point: if you say you have faith, shouldn't it make a difference to how you treat others?

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 08:03:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 324 In James 2:14-17, the apostle offers what is meant to be a ludicrous example of the failure of Christian compassion. He does this to make a point: if you say you have faith, shouldn't it make a difference to how you treat others? In James 2:14-17, the apostle offers what is meant to be a ludicrous example of the failure of Christian compassion. He does this to make a point: if you say you have faith, shouldn't it make a difference to how you treat others? No 38 38 Episode 38: Wait...say what now? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/19a122b6-8974-3841-8866-ad04f2e49f0e https://share.transistor.fm/s/bbb38abe Our visual perception works in a way that we see what we expect to see, and don't see what we don't expect to see. If you read James 2:18 closely, you might be surprised to see something you didn't expect to see...

]]> Our visual perception works in a way that we see what we expect to see, and don't see what we don't expect to see. If you read James 2:18 closely, you might be surprised to see something you didn't expect to see...

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 08:06:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 366 Our visual perception works in a way that we see what we expect to see, and don't see what we don't expect to see. If you read James 2:18 closely, you might be surprised to see something you didn't expect to see... Our visual perception works in a way that we see what we expect to see, and don't see what we don't expect to see. If you read James 2:18 closely, you might be surprised to see something you didn't expect to see... No 39 39 Episode 39: Bully for you! full drcameronlee.podbean.com/f9ebb5e9-8be2-35fa-bf90-da68bb76ee5a https://share.transistor.fm/s/51b65d58 James 2:19 uses a bit of rhetorical sarcasm to make a point. You can claim to be faithful in a way that might be true of any self-respecting Jew. But if it doesn't show in your conduct and character, are you doing any better than the demons?

]]> James 2:19 uses a bit of rhetorical sarcasm to make a point. You can claim to be faithful in a way that might be true of any self-respecting Jew. But if it doesn't show in your conduct and character, are you doing any better than the demons?

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 08:09:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 310 James 2:19 uses a bit of rhetorical sarcasm to make a point. You can claim to be faithful in a way that might be true of any self-respecting Jew. But if it doesn't show in your conduct and character, are you doing any better than the demons? James 2:19 uses a bit of rhetorical sarcasm to make a point. You can claim to be faithful in a way that might be true of any self-respecting Jew. But if it doesn't show in your conduct and character, are you doing any better than the demons? No 40 40 Episode 40: Don’t be such a fool! full drcameronlee.podbean.com/ebd8d75e-f326-3be9-8704-ce5098fb1c23 https://share.transistor.fm/s/16a3de2f In James 2:20, the apostle calls some of his readers "senseless." But didn't Jesus teach in the Sermon on the Mount that it was wrong to call someone a fool?

]]> In James 2:20, the apostle calls some of his readers "senseless." But didn't Jesus teach in the Sermon on the Mount that it was wrong to call someone a fool?

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 08:13:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 325 In James 2:20, the apostle calls some of his readers "senseless." But didn't Jesus teach in the Sermon on the Mount that it was wrong to call someone a fool? In James 2:20, the apostle calls some of his readers "senseless." But didn't Jesus teach in the Sermon on the Mount that it was wrong to call someone a fool? No 41 41 Episode 41: Faith alone...or not? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/6884bb1e-f139-32ae-aa4b-d1438bd9a783 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bb4d89e9 Some worry when they read James 2:22-24, which uses the example of Abraham to say that we are "justified by works." Is James contradicting Paul, or the teaching of the Protestant Reformers?

]]> Some worry when they read James 2:22-24, which uses the example of Abraham to say that we are "justified by works." Is James contradicting Paul, or the teaching of the Protestant Reformers?

]]> Fri, 01 Sep 2023 08:17:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 383 Some worry when they read James 2:22-24, which uses the example of Abraham to say that we are "justified by works." Is James contradicting Paul, or the teaching of the Protestant Reformers? Some worry when they read James 2:22-24, which uses the example of Abraham to say that we are "justified by works." Is James contradicting Paul, or the teaching of the Protestant Reformers? No 42 42 Episode 42: Abraham believed God full drcameronlee.podbean.com/f66ec943-17ce-3c18-9c0b-b7c7acf19da3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/95780eed In this episode, we go back to Genesis 22 to explore the difficult story of God's test of Abraham, when Abraham was asked to sacrifice his son, Isaac. We need this story to understand the teaching of James 2:21-23.

]]> In this episode, we go back to Genesis 22 to explore the difficult story of God's test of Abraham, when Abraham was asked to sacrifice his son, Isaac. We need this story to understand the teaching of James 2:21-23.

]]> Fri, 01 Sep 2023 08:19:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 443 In this episode, we go back to Genesis 22 to explore the difficult story of God's test of Abraham, when Abraham was asked to sacrifice his son, Isaac. We need this story to understand the teaching of James 2:21-23. In this episode, we go back to Genesis 22 to explore the difficult story of God's test of Abraham, when Abraham was asked to sacrifice his son, Isaac. We need this story to understand the teaching of James 2:21-23. No 43 43 Episode 43: Scandalous faith full drcameronlee.podbean.com/2e0ed02b-8b73-31e9-8a8b-b1f071a6d843 https://share.transistor.fm/s/759dac61 James uses not only Abraham as an example of faith, but Rahab, the prostitute who hid Joshua's spies in Jericho. This episode explores the implications of holding up a Canaanite prostitute as an example of faith.

]]> James uses not only Abraham as an example of faith, but Rahab, the prostitute who hid Joshua's spies in Jericho. This episode explores the implications of holding up a Canaanite prostitute as an example of faith.

]]> Fri, 01 Sep 2023 08:22:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 410 James uses not only Abraham as an example of faith, but Rahab, the prostitute who hid Joshua's spies in Jericho. This episode explores the implications of holding up a Canaanite prostitute as an example of faith. James uses not only Abraham as an example of faith, but Rahab, the prostitute who hid Joshua's spies in Jericho. This episode explores the implications of holding up a Canaanite prostitute as an example of faith. No 44 44 Episode 44: Not everyone should teach full drcameronlee.podbean.com/6d9e738d-e438-3059-bbe2-e4d90f2c8364 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2f042c34 We've all had good teachers and bad teachers. And apparently, a number of people in the early church wanted the status of being a teacher. But James 3:1 warns that people should instead think seriously about the responsibility that comes with the role...

]]> We've all had good teachers and bad teachers. And apparently, a number of people in the early church wanted the status of being a teacher. But James 3:1 warns that people should instead think seriously about the responsibility that comes with the role...

]]> Fri, 01 Sep 2023 08:25:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 277 We've all had good teachers and bad teachers. And apparently, a number of people in the early church wanted the status of being a teacher. But James 3:1 warns that people should instead think seriously about the responsibility that comes with the role... We've all had good teachers and bad teachers. And apparently, a number of people in the early church wanted the status of being a teacher. But James 3:1 warns that people should instead think seriously about the responsibility that comes with the role... No 45 45 Episode 45: Nobody’s perfect...yet full drcameronlee.podbean.com/b498471c-7409-3525-873b-02a84ca25181 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f12549a8 When we've made a mistake, we sometimes say that "Nobody's perfect." And indeed, James 3:2 suggests that we "all make mistakes often." But what James says is informed by a biblical understanding of what it means to be perfect. Are we "growing up" spiritually?

]]> When we've made a mistake, we sometimes say that "Nobody's perfect." And indeed, James 3:2 suggests that we "all make mistakes often." But what James says is informed by a biblical understanding of what it means to be perfect. Are we "growing up" spiritually?

]]> Fri, 01 Sep 2023 08:28:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 295 When we've made a mistake, we sometimes say that "Nobody's perfect." And indeed, James 3:2 suggests that we "all make mistakes often." But what James says is informed by a biblical understanding of what it means to be perfect. Are we "growing up" spiritually? When we've made a mistake, we sometimes say that "Nobody's perfect." And indeed, James 3:2 suggests that we "all make mistakes often." But what James says is informed by a biblical understanding of what it means to be perfect. Are we "growing up" spiritua No 46 46 Episode 46: Little words, big consequences full drcameronlee.podbean.com/0dc51090-37f6-324b-81d1-5c587ad02ae0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5c41f778 We've seen how James says we all make mistakes. That's his way of introducing the fact that we all make mistakes in how we speak to one another. In James 3:2-5, he uses different metaphors to suggest just how much of an impact our little words can have.

]]> We've seen how James says we all make mistakes. That's his way of introducing the fact that we all make mistakes in how we speak to one another. In James 3:2-5, he uses different metaphors to suggest just how much of an impact our little words can have.

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 08:31:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 321 We've seen how James says we all make mistakes. That's his way of introducing the fact that we all make mistakes in how we speak to one another. In James 3:2-5, he uses different metaphors to suggest just how much of an impact our little words can have. We've seen how James says we all make mistakes. That's his way of introducing the fact that we all make mistakes in how we speak to one another. In James 3:2-5, he uses different metaphors to suggest just how much of an impact our little words can have. No 47 47 Episode 47: Please don’t pass it on full drcameronlee.podbean.com/f56e4889-475f-3cb0-89ae-91a557b3b575 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5198337f Is anyone listening to this old enough to remember the praise song Pass it On? The song lyrics taught that "It only takes a spark to get a fire going"; the song was talking about spreading the warmth of God's love. But James 3:5-6 uses the same metaphor in a very different way: our words can set relationships on fire.

]]> Is anyone listening to this old enough to remember the praise song Pass it On? The song lyrics taught that "It only takes a spark to get a fire going"; the song was talking about spreading the warmth of God's love. But James 3:5-6 uses the same metaphor in a very different way: our words can set relationships on fire.

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 08:34:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 302 Is anyone listening to this old enough to remember the praise song Pass it On? The song lyrics taught that "It only takes a spark to get a fire going"; the song was talking about spreading the warmth of God's love. But James 3:5-6 uses the same metaphor in a very different way: our words can set relationships on fire. Is anyone listening to this old enough to remember the praise song Pass it On? The song lyrics taught that "It only takes a spark to get a fire going"; the song was talking about spreading the warmth of God's love. But James 3:5-6 uses the same metaphor i No 48 48 Episode 48: Words from hell full drcameronlee.podbean.com/b3f59a68-5993-3f74-a256-1789b1e3d4c7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8f165d01 What James teaches about the way we speak reaches a crescendo in 3:5-6: our errant tongues can set our whole lives on fire, and are set on fire by hell itself.

]]> What James teaches about the way we speak reaches a crescendo in 3:5-6: our errant tongues can set our whole lives on fire, and are set on fire by hell itself.

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 08:37:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 333 What James teaches about the way we speak reaches a crescendo in 3:5-6: our errant tongues can set our whole lives on fire, and are set on fire by hell itself. What James teaches about the way we speak reaches a crescendo in 3:5-6: our errant tongues can set our whole lives on fire, and are set on fire by hell itself. No 49 49 Episode 49: Taming the untamable full drcameronlee.podbean.com/1b1f1766-841e-33a8-bff1-e5b9a3b5f717 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c04c5ee1 In James 3:7-8, the apostle suggests that human beings know how to tame any kind of animal, but ironically, we can't tame our tongues...

]]> In James 3:7-8, the apostle suggests that human beings know how to tame any kind of animal, but ironically, we can't tame our tongues...

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 08:39:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 273 In James 3:7-8, the apostle suggests that human beings know how to tame any kind of animal, but ironically, we can't tame our tongues... In James 3:7-8, the apostle suggests that human beings know how to tame any kind of animal, but ironically, we can't tame our tongues... No 50 50 Episode 50: Changing the way we see full drcameronlee.podbean.com/1f8f05e1-eb1e-3c2d-89b6-d503fc8c47bb https://share.transistor.fm/s/b2e8d0d4 James has written colorfully about the evils of the tongue and its wild, untamable nature. How do we learn to control it better? James 3:9 suggests one place to start: learning to see others as created in the image of God.

]]> James has written colorfully about the evils of the tongue and its wild, untamable nature. How do we learn to control it better? James 3:9 suggests one place to start: learning to see others as created in the image of God.

]]> Fri, 08 Sep 2023 08:42:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 331 James has written colorfully about the evils of the tongue and its wild, untamable nature. How do we learn to control it better? James 3:9 suggests one place to start: learning to see others as created in the image of God. James has written colorfully about the evils of the tongue and its wild, untamable nature. How do we learn to control it better? James 3:9 suggests one place to start: learning to see others as created in the image of God. No 51 51 Episode 51: Bearing fruit full drcameronlee.podbean.com/f913742c-c583-3a52-9bea-7315a77d7a14 https://share.transistor.fm/s/392be4e0 Olives don't grow on fig trees; figs don't grow on grapevines. What James 3:11-12 teaches is once more reminiscent of the words of Jesus: "You will know them by their fruit." If the gospel is planted in us, as James suggests, does it bear fruit in the way we speak?

]]> Olives don't grow on fig trees; figs don't grow on grapevines. What James 3:11-12 teaches is once more reminiscent of the words of Jesus: "You will know them by their fruit." If the gospel is planted in us, as James suggests, does it bear fruit in the way we speak?

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 20:36:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 309 Olives don't grow on fig trees; figs don't grow on grapevines. What James 3:11-12 teaches is once more reminiscent of the words of Jesus: "You will know them by their fruit." If the gospel is planted in us, as James suggests, does it bear fruit in the way we speak? Olives don't grow on fig trees; figs don't grow on grapevines. What James 3:11-12 teaches is once more reminiscent of the words of Jesus: "You will know them by their fruit." If the gospel is planted in us, as James suggests, does it bear fruit in the way No 52 52 Episode 52: Who’s really wise? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/a9ba5c7b-4c10-324f-8ecc-cb927949b80b https://share.transistor.fm/s/cf4dab27 In today's world, just about anyone can have a platform to share their supposed wisdom. But who's really wise? James 3:13 suggests that true wisdom is shown in an appropriately humble lifestyle.

]]> In today's world, just about anyone can have a platform to share their supposed wisdom. But who's really wise? James 3:13 suggests that true wisdom is shown in an appropriately humble lifestyle.

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 20:42:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 310 In today's world, just about anyone can have a platform to share their supposed wisdom. But who's really wise? James 3:13 suggests that true wisdom is shown in an appropriately humble lifestyle. In today's world, just about anyone can have a platform to share their supposed wisdom. But who's really wise? James 3:13 suggests that true wisdom is shown in an appropriately humble lifestyle. No 53 53 Episode 53: What’s wrong with ambition? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/10aadd24-d0bc-36b8-b211-86f71dd3f0a8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/796fcf32 It's probably not hard to imagine how people's ambitions can threaten the health of relationships. James 3:14 suggests that believers were doing things for their own gain, creating chaos in the church.

]]> It's probably not hard to imagine how people's ambitions can threaten the health of relationships. James 3:14 suggests that believers were doing things for their own gain, creating chaos in the church.

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 20:44:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 384 It's probably not hard to imagine how people's ambitions can threaten the health of relationships. James 3:14 suggests that believers were doing things for their own gain, creating chaos in the church. It's probably not hard to imagine how people's ambitions can threaten the health of relationships. James 3:14 suggests that believers were doing things for their own gain, creating chaos in the church. No 54 54 Episode 54: Chaos theory--church edition full drcameronlee.podbean.com/3a9865cc-ecaa-312f-888f-c16a64252437 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9a357190 James has already suggested that out-of-control tongues are "set on fire by hell." The strong language continues in James 3:15-16: compared to true wisdom, the counterfeit earthly version is "demonic."

]]> James has already suggested that out-of-control tongues are "set on fire by hell." The strong language continues in James 3:15-16: compared to true wisdom, the counterfeit earthly version is "demonic."

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 20:49:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 331 James has already suggested that out-of-control tongues are "set on fire by hell." The strong language continues in James 3:15-16: compared to true wisdom, the counterfeit earthly version is "demonic." James has already suggested that out-of-control tongues are "set on fire by hell." The strong language continues in James 3:15-16: compared to true wisdom, the counterfeit earthly version is "demonic." No 55 55 Episode 55: Being wise, making peace full drcameronlee.podbean.com/6249b422-6791-3baf-90d4-354df4a8e52a https://share.transistor.fm/s/34740f5f James has already spoken about true and false wisdom. In James 3:17-18, he says more about the nature of godly wisdom, and what he says is reminiscent of Paul's teaching about the fruit of the Spirit. The truly wise desire to make peace, to foster shalom.

]]> James has already spoken about true and false wisdom. In James 3:17-18, he says more about the nature of godly wisdom, and what he says is reminiscent of Paul's teaching about the fruit of the Spirit. The truly wise desire to make peace, to foster shalom.

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 20:53:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 355 James has already spoken about true and false wisdom. In James 3:17-18, he says more about the nature of godly wisdom, and what he says is reminiscent of Paul's teaching about the fruit of the Spirit. The truly wise desire to make peace, to foster shalom. James has already spoken about true and false wisdom. In James 3:17-18, he says more about the nature of godly wisdom, and what he says is reminiscent of Paul's teaching about the fruit of the Spirit. The truly wise desire to make peace, to foster shalom. No 56 56 Episode 56: Craving and conflict full drcameronlee.podbean.com/48167c36-4a55-3028-901a-06d6c6cd9a1a https://share.transistor.fm/s/6743b2eb Try to imagine what you really want when you're in the midst of an argument... James 4:1 says that the root of our external conflicts is an internal conflict: we have desires that pull us in different directions.

]]> Try to imagine what you really want when you're in the midst of an argument... James 4:1 says that the root of our external conflicts is an internal conflict: we have desires that pull us in different directions.

]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 20:56:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 302 Try to imagine what you really want when you're in the midst of an argument... James 4:1 says that the root of our external conflicts is an internal conflict: we have desires that pull us in different directions. Try to imagine what you really want when you're in the midst of an argument... James 4:1 says that the root of our external conflicts is an internal conflict: we have desires that pull us in different directions. No 57 57 Episode 57: Frustrated desire full drcameronlee.podbean.com/08707402-d69d-3c05-9e30-6ed5bafff040 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d5f2899b More strong language. James 4:2 says that conflict comes from frustrated desire. But his words seem to suggest that Christians were actually willing to commit murder to get what they want. Is that what he really means?

]]> More strong language. James 4:2 says that conflict comes from frustrated desire. But his words seem to suggest that Christians were actually willing to commit murder to get what they want. Is that what he really means?

]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 20:59:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 358 More strong language. James 4:2 says that conflict comes from frustrated desire. But his words seem to suggest that Christians were actually willing to commit murder to get what they want. Is that what he really means? More strong language. James 4:2 says that conflict comes from frustrated desire. But his words seem to suggest that Christians were actually willing to commit murder to get what they want. Is that what he really means? No 58 58 Episode 58: Pretty please? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/62506b80-0985-3a10-b129-2474838f5e14 https://share.transistor.fm/s/06756ad4 Most of us were taught to say "please" when we wanted something; without the magic word, we might not get it. James 4:2-3 seems to suggest that this might be true of prayer as well--it's possible to ask "wrongly." Do we need to say things in a particular way for God to answer our prayers?

]]> Most of us were taught to say "please" when we wanted something; without the magic word, we might not get it. James 4:2-3 seems to suggest that this might be true of prayer as well--it's possible to ask "wrongly." Do we need to say things in a particular way for God to answer our prayers?

]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 21:01:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 388 Most of us were taught to say "please" when we wanted something; without the magic word, we might not get it. James 4:2-3 seems to suggest that this might be true of prayer as well--it's possible to ask "wrongly." Do we need to say things in a particular way for God to answer our prayers? Most of us were taught to say "please" when we wanted something; without the magic word, we might not get it. James 4:2-3 seems to suggest that this might be true of prayer as well--it's possible to ask "wrongly." Do we need to say things in a particular No 59 59 Episode 59: Unfaithful full drcameronlee.podbean.com/0bdd8771-8f1b-3f94-8e49-539329812a31 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0de3f44a James pulls no punches. He's already suggested that believers were guilty of murder. In James 4:4, he calls them "adulterers." Why?

]]> James pulls no punches. He's already suggested that believers were guilty of murder. In James 4:4, he calls them "adulterers." Why?

]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 21:05:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 345 James pulls no punches. He's already suggested that believers were guilty of murder. In James 4:4, he calls them "adulterers." Why? James pulls no punches. He's already suggested that believers were guilty of murder. In James 4:4, he calls them "adulterers." Why? No 60 60 Episode 60: What does God want? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/a585e066-5727-3426-b24a-d47b64f727b7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/29e3dc4f James has already spoken of how our desires clash within us and cause us to clash with each other. James 5:4 suggests that God, too, desires something. But the verse is notoriously difficult to translate, as even a quick glance at different translations reveals. This episode explores what James probably means--and what that means for us.

]]> James has already spoken of how our desires clash within us and cause us to clash with each other. James 5:4 suggests that God, too, desires something. But the verse is notoriously difficult to translate, as even a quick glance at different translations reveals. This episode explores what James probably means--and what that means for us.

]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 21:06:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 389 James has already spoken of how our desires clash within us and cause us to clash with each other. James 5:4 suggests that God, too, desires something. But the verse is notoriously difficult to translate, as even a quick glance at different translations reveals. This episode explores what James probably means--and what that means for us. James has already spoken of how our desires clash within us and cause us to clash with each other. James 5:4 suggests that God, too, desires something. But the verse is notoriously difficult to translate, as even a quick glance at different translations r No 61 61 Episode 61: Grace, pride, and humility full drcameronlee.podbean.com/c0f80e86-52aa-37ac-9af8-5324e0b070bf https://share.transistor.fm/s/073551ff James 4:6 teaches that "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." But what does it mean to be humble? And is there anything good about pride?

]]> James 4:6 teaches that "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." But what does it mean to be humble? And is there anything good about pride?

]]> Fri, 29 Sep 2023 07:33:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 365 James 4:6 teaches that "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." But what does it mean to be humble? And is there anything good about pride? James 4:6 teaches that "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble." But what does it mean to be humble? And is there anything good about pride? No 62 62 Episode 62: Resist the devil! full drcameronlee.podbean.com/2be7008b-4613-345b-a387-7647047d12e5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/49bcf959 Having said that God gives grace to the humble, James then adds that believers should therefore submit themselves to God (James 4:7-8). But this also entails resisting the devil. What is James teaching us?

]]> Having said that God gives grace to the humble, James then adds that believers should therefore submit themselves to God (James 4:7-8). But this also entails resisting the devil. What is James teaching us?

]]> Fri, 29 Sep 2023 07:35:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 321 Having said that God gives grace to the humble, James then adds that believers should therefore submit themselves to God (James 4:7-8). But this also entails resisting the devil. What is James teaching us? Having said that God gives grace to the humble, James then adds that believers should therefore submit themselves to God (James 4:7-8). But this also entails resisting the devil. What is James teaching us? No 63 63 Episode 63: Holy heartbreak full drcameronlee.podbean.com/d2f1277a-7a8f-3bd7-b69a-768368f5ff1b https://share.transistor.fm/s/1e9f98f3 In James 4:8-9, the apostle takes the teaching on humility even further. In this episode, we'll see how James uses severe language to prompt us to grieve our sin and its effects. As others have said, our hearts should be broken by the things that break the heart of God.

]]> In James 4:8-9, the apostle takes the teaching on humility even further. In this episode, we'll see how James uses severe language to prompt us to grieve our sin and its effects. As others have said, our hearts should be broken by the things that break the heart of God.

]]> Fri, 29 Sep 2023 07:38:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 322 In James 4:8-9, the apostle takes the teaching on humility even further. In this episode, we'll see how James uses severe language to prompt us to grieve our sin and its effects. As others have said, our hearts should be broken by the things that break the heart of God. In James 4:8-9, the apostle takes the teaching on humility even further. In this episode, we'll see how James uses severe language to prompt us to grieve our sin and its effects. As others have said, our hearts should be broken by the things that break th No 64 64 Episode 64: The way up is down (part 1) full drcameronlee.podbean.com/7c3f5d97-7b36-3e88-825c-8f8084e31576 https://share.transistor.fm/s/3036ff1e So much of American culture assumes that upward striving is the norm. But how does that fit with what James has taught about humility, to people who seem to be hurting one another in their quest to climb the social ladder? James 4:10 suggests that instead of exalting ourselves, we should be humble, and let God do the exalting.

]]> So much of American culture assumes that upward striving is the norm. But how does that fit with what James has taught about humility, to people who seem to be hurting one another in their quest to climb the social ladder? James 4:10 suggests that instead of exalting ourselves, we should be humble, and let God do the exalting.

]]> Fri, 29 Sep 2023 07:43:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 377 So much of American culture assumes that upward striving is the norm. But how does that fit with what James has taught about humility, to people who seem to be hurting one another in their quest to climb the social ladder? James 4:10 suggests that instead of exalting ourselves, we should be humble, and let God do the exalting. So much of American culture assumes that upward striving is the norm. But how does that fit with what James has taught about humility, to people who seem to be hurting one another in their quest to climb the social ladder? James 4:10 suggests that instead No 65 65 Episode 65: The way up is down (part 2) full drcameronlee.podbean.com/aa4726b3-6a56-37cb-a86a-1d056b0b82c1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f4bb1b16 In this episode, we review the teaching on humility in James 4:8-10, and connect it back to the teaching of Jesus. What the world counts as happiness is fleeting; Jesus teaches blessedness instead. But what does it mean to be blessed?

]]> In this episode, we review the teaching on humility in James 4:8-10, and connect it back to the teaching of Jesus. What the world counts as happiness is fleeting; Jesus teaches blessedness instead. But what does it mean to be blessed?

]]> Fri, 29 Sep 2023 07:46:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 348 In this episode, we review the teaching on humility in James 4:8-10, and connect it back to the teaching of Jesus. What the world counts as happiness is fleeting; Jesus teaches blessedness instead. But what does it mean to be blessed? In this episode, we review the teaching on humility in James 4:8-10, and connect it back to the teaching of Jesus. What the world counts as happiness is fleeting; Jesus teaches blessedness instead. But what does it mean to be blessed? No 66 66 Episode 66: Speak no evil full drcameronlee.podbean.com/deb36028-d876-3607-a0e0-785e253a9a0e https://share.transistor.fm/s/d89f5900 James has used the word "adultery" to describe the behavior of the Christians to whom he writes. Shortly, he will also accuse them of "murder." But here in James 4:11, he levels the charge of slander, suggesting that the people are not only breaking the law, but standing in judgment over it. What does he mean?

]]> James has used the word "adultery" to describe the behavior of the Christians to whom he writes. Shortly, he will also accuse them of "murder." But here in James 4:11, he levels the charge of slander, suggesting that the people are not only breaking the law, but standing in judgment over it. What does he mean?

]]> Fri, 06 Oct 2023 07:49:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 331 James has used the word "adultery" to describe the behavior of the Christians to whom he writes. Shortly, he will also accuse them of "murder." But here in James 4:11, he levels the charge of slander, suggesting that the people are not only breaking the law, but standing in judgment over it. What does he mean? James has used the word "adultery" to describe the behavior of the Christians to whom he writes. Shortly, he will also accuse them of "murder." But here in James 4:11, he levels the charge of slander, suggesting that the people are not only breaking the l No 67 67 Episode 67: ”Lawful” speech full drcameronlee.podbean.com/706b131c-80b9-30a8-b5f9-ea00c8493e58 https://share.transistor.fm/s/759cb213 Again, in James 4:11, the apostle accuses people of saying "evil things about each other," and standing in judgment of the law.  As we'll see in this episode, he may be referring to the Mosaic Law as a whole, or to the "royal law" of loving your neighbor as yourself. But we need to take our critical and angry words seriously...

]]> Again, in James 4:11, the apostle accuses people of saying "evil things about each other," and standing in judgment of the law.  As we'll see in this episode, he may be referring to the Mosaic Law as a whole, or to the "royal law" of loving your neighbor as yourself. But we need to take our critical and angry words seriously...

]]> Fri, 06 Oct 2023 07:52:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 325 Again, in James 4:11, the apostle accuses people of saying "evil things about each other," and standing in judgment of the law.  As we'll see in this episode, he may be referring to the Mosaic Law as a whole, or to the "royal law" of loving your neighbor as yourself. But we need to take our critical and angry words seriously... Again, in James 4:11, the apostle accuses people of saying "evil things about each other," and standing in judgment of the law.  As we'll see in this episode, he may be referring to the Mosaic Law as a whole, or to the "royal law" of loving your neighbor No 68 68 Episode 68: Above the law full drcameronlee.podbean.com/fb1118f6-8786-3516-bb60-c0be69da0371 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4130445b There are people in the world who think they're "above the law," that normal rules don't apply to them. We may not think that of ourselves, but James 4:12 suggests that when we pass judgment on others, we are putting ourselves above God's law.

]]> There are people in the world who think they're "above the law," that normal rules don't apply to them. We may not think that of ourselves, but James 4:12 suggests that when we pass judgment on others, we are putting ourselves above God's law.

]]> Fri, 06 Oct 2023 07:56:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 341 There are people in the world who think they're "above the law," that normal rules don't apply to them. We may not think that of ourselves, but James 4:12 suggests that when we pass judgment on others, we are putting ourselves above God's law. There are people in the world who think they're "above the law," that normal rules don't apply to them. We may not think that of ourselves, but James 4:12 suggests that when we pass judgment on others, we are putting ourselves above God's law. No 69 69 Episode 69: Judgment, wise and unwise full drcameronlee.podbean.com/40c35c19-e58d-3df9-ba05-f004e0ea8c4d https://share.transistor.fm/s/7a7f79eb Is judgment always a bad thing? In this episode, we make a distinction between the wise use of judgment, and the unwise stance of being judgmental of others.

]]> Is judgment always a bad thing? In this episode, we make a distinction between the wise use of judgment, and the unwise stance of being judgmental of others.

]]> Fri, 06 Oct 2023 07:58:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 308 Is judgment always a bad thing? In this episode, we make a distinction between the wise use of judgment, and the unwise stance of being judgmental of others. Is judgment always a bad thing? In this episode, we make a distinction between the wise use of judgment, and the unwise stance of being judgmental of others. No 70 70 Episode 70: ”If the Lord wills...” full drcameronlee.podbean.com/3c97d027-f3de-33f9-b400-6b4842b0399b https://share.transistor.fm/s/aeedcd0a We often tell others about our plans, about what we're going to do today, tomorrow, or the next. But James 4:13-16 suggests that we sometimes do this to boast, and that such boasting is "evil."

]]> We often tell others about our plans, about what we're going to do today, tomorrow, or the next. But James 4:13-16 suggests that we sometimes do this to boast, and that such boasting is "evil."

]]> Fri, 06 Oct 2023 08:00:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 385 We often tell others about our plans, about what we're going to do today, tomorrow, or the next. But James 4:13-16 suggests that we sometimes do this to boast, and that such boasting is "evil." We often tell others about our plans, about what we're going to do today, tomorrow, or the next. But James 4:13-16 suggests that we sometimes do this to boast, and that such boasting is "evil." No 71 71 Episode 71: Snake oil full drcameronlee.podbean.com/7cf6ad44-d69a-37e3-9d9c-25c1dfcd1f20 https://share.transistor.fm/s/016dc372 Why is it evil to speak of our plans in boastful ways? James teaches that it's arrogant. Here, it's important to recognize what he means by "boasting," for the word suggests the grand claims associated with the charlatans who peddle "snake oil."

]]> Why is it evil to speak of our plans in boastful ways? James teaches that it's arrogant. Here, it's important to recognize what he means by "boasting," for the word suggests the grand claims associated with the charlatans who peddle "snake oil."

]]> Fri, 13 Oct 2023 08:02:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 405 Why is it evil to speak of our plans in boastful ways? James teaches that it's arrogant. Here, it's important to recognize what he means by "boasting," for the word suggests the grand claims associated with the charlatans who peddle "snake oil." Why is it evil to speak of our plans in boastful ways? James teaches that it's arrogant. Here, it's important to recognize what he means by "boasting," for the word suggests the grand claims associated with the charlatans who peddle "snake oil." No 72 72 Episode 72: The haves, the have-nots, and the have-yachts full drcameronlee.podbean.com/bdacaa57-5ac5-3cea-9bdd-89bececa92f4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b983740e The world isn't just divided up into the haves and the have-nots; there are also those who are very rich, which one wit has called the "have-yachts." The distinction is helpful in understanding some of the social problems in the church which James targeted with his teaching.

]]> The world isn't just divided up into the haves and the have-nots; there are also those who are very rich, which one wit has called the "have-yachts." The distinction is helpful in understanding some of the social problems in the church which James targeted with his teaching.

]]> Fri, 13 Oct 2023 08:05:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 310 The world isn't just divided up into the haves and the have-nots; there are also those who are very rich, which one wit has called the "have-yachts." The distinction is helpful in understanding some of the social problems in the church which James targeted with his teaching. The world isn't just divided up into the haves and the have-nots; there are also those who are very rich, which one wit has called the "have-yachts." The distinction is helpful in understanding some of the social problems in the church which James targete No 73 73 Episode 73: Wake up! full drcameronlee.podbean.com/5c9a05ea-972a-3ed7-b17a-6f4a99e01a38 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1a5a0edf At the beginning of chapter 5, James again uses strong language to wake up the rich--the "have-yachts"--to the evil they have done against the poor. James 5:1-6 sounds like it could have come from one of the Old Testament prophets! And in this passage, he accuses the rich of murder...

]]> At the beginning of chapter 5, James again uses strong language to wake up the rich--the "have-yachts"--to the evil they have done against the poor. James 5:1-6 sounds like it could have come from one of the Old Testament prophets! And in this passage, he accuses the rich of murder...

]]> Fri, 13 Oct 2023 08:07:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 390 At the beginning of chapter 5, James again uses strong language to wake up the rich--the "have-yachts"--to the evil they have done against the poor. James 5:1-6 sounds like it could have come from one of the Old Testament prophets! And in this passage, he accuses the rich of murder... At the beginning of chapter 5, James again uses strong language to wake up the rich--the "have-yachts"--to the evil they have done against the poor. James 5:1-6 sounds like it could have come from one of the Old Testament prophets! And in this passage, he No 74 74 Episode 74: The final chapter full drcameronlee.podbean.com/056b6751-47e9-362d-868e-6123e2aec7e1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/04b640eb One hopes that the final chapter of any story will bring the tale to a satisfying conclusion. So it is with God's story. And part of what James wants the rich to understand in James 5:3 is that the final chapter of God's story has already begun, and judgment is coming...

]]> One hopes that the final chapter of any story will bring the tale to a satisfying conclusion. So it is with God's story. And part of what James wants the rich to understand in James 5:3 is that the final chapter of God's story has already begun, and judgment is coming...

]]> Fri, 13 Oct 2023 08:12:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 293 One hopes that the final chapter of any story will bring the tale to a satisfying conclusion. So it is with God's story. And part of what James wants the rich to understand in James 5:3 is that the final chapter of God's story has already begun, and judgment is coming... One hopes that the final chapter of any story will bring the tale to a satisfying conclusion. So it is with God's story. And part of what James wants the rich to understand in James 5:3 is that the final chapter of God's story has already begun, and judgm No 75 75 Episode 75: Where your heart is full drcameronlee.podbean.com/1b770504-ca3a-3dd5-9a6e-25b4fbf13aa5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/58b5ef04 James 5:2-3 uses colorful language to describe how all the trappings of wealth that the rich take for granted have rotted and rusted. In this episode, we explore how James' teaching echoes the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 6 and Luke 12.

]]> James 5:2-3 uses colorful language to describe how all the trappings of wealth that the rich take for granted have rotted and rusted. In this episode, we explore how James' teaching echoes the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 6 and Luke 12.

]]> Fri, 13 Oct 2023 08:14:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 388 James 5:2-3 uses colorful language to describe how all the trappings of wealth that the rich take for granted have rotted and rusted. In this episode, we explore how James' teaching echoes the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 6 and Luke 12. James 5:2-3 uses colorful language to describe how all the trappings of wealth that the rich take for granted have rotted and rusted. In this episode, we explore how James' teaching echoes the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 6 and Luke 12. No 76 76 Episode 76: Be patient full drcameronlee.podbean.com/2d3963a1-2c42-370e-8b6f-c74092db9a1e https://share.transistor.fm/s/7ee110f3 I sometimes struggle with patience, and I imagine you do too. James 5:7-8 counsels that we should be patient as we wait for Jesus to return. But does he mean the same thing by "patience" as we do?

]]> I sometimes struggle with patience, and I imagine you do too. James 5:7-8 counsels that we should be patient as we wait for Jesus to return. But does he mean the same thing by "patience" as we do?

]]> Fri, 20 Oct 2023 08:17:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 308 I sometimes struggle with patience, and I imagine you do too. James 5:7-8 counsels that we should be patient as we wait for Jesus to return. But does he mean the same thing by "patience" as we do? I sometimes struggle with patience, and I imagine you do too. James 5:7-8 counsels that we should be patient as we wait for Jesus to return. But does he mean the same thing by "patience" as we do? No 77 77 Episode 77: Harvest time full drcameronlee.podbean.com/404588c7-6e16-31db-9c4b-6af12e61f558 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bf9dfbb3 In teaching patience, James 5:7-8 uses the metaphor of a farmer waiting for rain and for a good crop. Can we apply this metaphor to our own need to endure suffering?

]]> In teaching patience, James 5:7-8 uses the metaphor of a farmer waiting for rain and for a good crop. Can we apply this metaphor to our own need to endure suffering?

]]> Fri, 20 Oct 2023 08:19:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 327 In teaching patience, James 5:7-8 uses the metaphor of a farmer waiting for rain and for a good crop. Can we apply this metaphor to our own need to endure suffering? In teaching patience, James 5:7-8 uses the metaphor of a farmer waiting for rain and for a good crop. Can we apply this metaphor to our own need to endure suffering? No 78 78 Episode 78: Are we there yet? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/4a082efb-3a18-3979-9baa-97dd5db8ef25 https://share.transistor.fm/s/aef0417d Anyone who's ever done a road trip with kids knows the question. We look forward to arriving at our destination, a little impatiently. James 5:8 tells us to strengthen our hearts as we anticipate the return of Jesus. But can we understand this in a way that helps us be more patient with the journey itself?

]]> Anyone who's ever done a road trip with kids knows the question. We look forward to arriving at our destination, a little impatiently. James 5:8 tells us to strengthen our hearts as we anticipate the return of Jesus. But can we understand this in a way that helps us be more patient with the journey itself?

]]> Fri, 20 Oct 2023 08:21:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 377 Anyone who's ever done a road trip with kids knows the question. We look forward to arriving at our destination, a little impatiently. James 5:8 tells us to strengthen our hearts as we anticipate the return of Jesus. But can we understand this in a way that helps us be more patient with the journey itself? Anyone who's ever done a road trip with kids knows the question. We look forward to arriving at our destination, a little impatiently. James 5:8 tells us to strengthen our hearts as we anticipate the return of Jesus. But can we understand this in a way th No 79 79 Episode 79: Groaning and moaning full drcameronlee.podbean.com/0dcab070-3f6c-3113-9080-2cf0a7dee35e https://share.transistor.fm/s/cdab217e In Romans 8, the apostle Paul gives us the picture of all creation groaning like a woman in labor, waiting for birth of new life. James 5:9 uses the same language to describe the poor who are suffering oppression. But there also seems to be a social dimension to the groaning: even if the complaints of the poor are justified, are the complaints dividing the church?

]]> In Romans 8, the apostle Paul gives us the picture of all creation groaning like a woman in labor, waiting for birth of new life. James 5:9 uses the same language to describe the poor who are suffering oppression. But there also seems to be a social dimension to the groaning: even if the complaints of the poor are justified, are the complaints dividing the church?

]]> Fri, 20 Oct 2023 08:25:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 397 In Romans 8, the apostle Paul gives us the picture of all creation groaning like a woman in labor, waiting for birth of new life. James 5:9 uses the same language to describe the poor who are suffering oppression. But there also seems to be a social dimension to the groaning: even if the complaints of the poor are justified, are the complaints dividing the church? In Romans 8, the apostle Paul gives us the picture of all creation groaning like a woman in labor, waiting for birth of new life. James 5:9 uses the same language to describe the poor who are suffering oppression. But there also seems to be a social dimen No 80 80 Episode 80: The ”patience” of Job? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/4838fd6d-7cb0-37ce-9832-12a07f66ebe5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cebc25c8 Throughout his letter, James has written about patient endurance in the face of suffering. In James 5:10-11, he uses the example of Job. But just how "patient" was Job?

]]> Throughout his letter, James has written about patient endurance in the face of suffering. In James 5:10-11, he uses the example of Job. But just how "patient" was Job?

]]> Fri, 20 Oct 2023 08:28:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 375 Throughout his letter, James has written about patient endurance in the face of suffering. In James 5:10-11, he uses the example of Job. But just how "patient" was Job? Throughout his letter, James has written about patient endurance in the face of suffering. In James 5:10-11, he uses the example of Job. But just how "patient" was Job? No 81 81 Episode 81: Blessed and depressed? full drcameronlee.podbean.com/fce9970f-ee64-3e01-aa0e-02331c54b7b0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c903f711 James uses not only Job, but also the Old Testament prophets as examples of endurance that his readers would have known. In this episode, we use the example of Elijah to illustrate the point, and also connect James' teaching once more back to the words of Jesus.

]]> James uses not only Job, but also the Old Testament prophets as examples of endurance that his readers would have known. In this episode, we use the example of Elijah to illustrate the point, and also connect James' teaching once more back to the words of Jesus.

]]> Fri, 27 Oct 2023 08:35:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 398 James uses not only Job, but also the Old Testament prophets as examples of endurance that his readers would have known. In this episode, we use the example of Elijah to illustrate the point, and also connect James' teaching once more back to the words of Jesus. James uses not only Job, but also the Old Testament prophets as examples of endurance that his readers would have known. In this episode, we use the example of Elijah to illustrate the point, and also connect James' teaching once more back to the words of No 82 82 Episode 82: Say what you mean full drcameronlee.podbean.com/b45b850c-217a-3f3f-a469-ef6c741c1a42 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d17e5f0b Is it okay to take oaths? James 5:12 teaches that we should not, merely saying yes or no instead. But here again he echoes Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount. This episode explores what James means, so we can apply it to our own attitude and behavior.

]]> Is it okay to take oaths? James 5:12 teaches that we should not, merely saying yes or no instead. But here again he echoes Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount. This episode explores what James means, so we can apply it to our own attitude and behavior.

]]> Fri, 27 Oct 2023 08:37:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 389 Is it okay to take oaths? James 5:12 teaches that we should not, merely saying yes or no instead. But here again he echoes Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount. This episode explores what James means, so we can apply it to our own attitude and behavior. Is it okay to take oaths? James 5:12 teaches that we should not, merely saying yes or no instead. But here again he echoes Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount. This episode explores what James means, so we can apply it to our own attitude and behavior. No 83 83 Episode 83: Use your words full drcameronlee.podbean.com/ae8709c0-5407-307d-b24d-e3ab8876215a https://share.transistor.fm/s/2bfe8e77 So much of the teaching of James is about how we use words. James 5:13-16 suggests that one of the most important use of words is--surprise!--prayer. In this episode, we explore James' teaching on prayer for the life of the church.

]]> So much of the teaching of James is about how we use words. James 5:13-16 suggests that one of the most important use of words is--surprise!--prayer. In this episode, we explore James' teaching on prayer for the life of the church.

]]> Fri, 27 Oct 2023 08:40:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 390 So much of the teaching of James is about how we use words. James 5:13-16 suggests that one of the most important use of words is--surprise!--prayer. In this episode, we explore James' teaching on prayer for the life of the church. So much of the teaching of James is about how we use words. James 5:13-16 suggests that one of the most important use of words is--surprise!--prayer. In this episode, we explore James' teaching on prayer for the life of the church. No 84 84 Episode 84: A community of prayer full drcameronlee.podbean.com/89d51820-45c9-3504-a835-7c2d19602fb8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/43ab45fd James 5:16 teaches that Christians should confess their sins to one another. But we can easily imagine how badly that could go wrong. This episode explores the cultural context of James' words, and how we might understand them for the life of the church today.

]]> James 5:16 teaches that Christians should confess their sins to one another. But we can easily imagine how badly that could go wrong. This episode explores the cultural context of James' words, and how we might understand them for the life of the church today.

]]> Fri, 27 Oct 2023 08:43:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 411 James 5:16 teaches that Christians should confess their sins to one another. But we can easily imagine how badly that could go wrong. This episode explores the cultural context of James' words, and how we might understand them for the life of the church today. James 5:16 teaches that Christians should confess their sins to one another. But we can easily imagine how badly that could go wrong. This episode explores the cultural context of James' words, and how we might understand them for the life of the church t No 85 85 Episode 85: The power of prayer full drcameronlee.podbean.com/15f33b2c-b6db-37ff-a585-a63868948932 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d3f4cd99 James 5:16 teaches that "the prayer of the righteous is powerful." We've already looked at the story of Elijah on Mount Carmel; James uses that story as an example of the power of prayer. But is he talking about "prayer warriors" with a special gift for prayer? What does he mean when he says that Elijah was "just like us"?

]]> James 5:16 teaches that "the prayer of the righteous is powerful." We've already looked at the story of Elijah on Mount Carmel; James uses that story as an example of the power of prayer. But is he talking about "prayer warriors" with a special gift for prayer? What does he mean when he says that Elijah was "just like us"?

]]> Fri, 27 Oct 2023 08:45:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 298 James 5:16 teaches that "the prayer of the righteous is powerful." We've already looked at the story of Elijah on Mount Carmel; James uses that story as an example of the power of prayer. But is he talking about "prayer warriors" with a special gift for prayer? What does he mean when he says that Elijah was "just like us"? James 5:16 teaches that "the prayer of the righteous is powerful." We've already looked at the story of Elijah on Mount Carmel; James uses that story as an example of the power of prayer. But is he talking about "prayer warriors" with a special gift for p No 86 86 Episode 86: Yours truly full drcameronlee.podbean.com/22dab317-01dd-326b-bf44-a90e21cb74ea https://share.transistor.fm/s/5b5f48ce Back in the days of letter writing, we were taught to end letters with words like "Sincerely" or "Yours truly." As we approach the end of the letter of James, we see that he doesn't end the letter the way Paul might. But James 5:19-20 highlights the importance of "truth"--making me wish he had actually signed off with "Yours truly."

]]> Back in the days of letter writing, we were taught to end letters with words like "Sincerely" or "Yours truly." As we approach the end of the letter of James, we see that he doesn't end the letter the way Paul might. But James 5:19-20 highlights the importance of "truth"--making me wish he had actually signed off with "Yours truly."

]]> Fri, 03 Nov 2023 08:48:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 308 Back in the days of letter writing, we were taught to end letters with words like "Sincerely" or "Yours truly." As we approach the end of the letter of James, we see that he doesn't end the letter the way Paul might. But James 5:19-20 highlights the importance of "truth"--making me wish he had actually signed off with "Yours truly." Back in the days of letter writing, we were taught to end letters with words like "Sincerely" or "Yours truly." As we approach the end of the letter of James, we see that he doesn't end the letter the way Paul might. But James 5:19-20 highlights the impor No 87 87 Episode 87: Wandering from the path full drcameronlee.podbean.com/2d569458-ef37-379f-a3a8-da2baa7db304 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e2fc4536 We all get lost sometimes. Spiritually, from the standpoint of the Psalms, we might say that we also stray from God's path. How might we understand James 5:19-20 accordingly?

]]> We all get lost sometimes. Spiritually, from the standpoint of the Psalms, we might say that we also stray from God's path. How might we understand James 5:19-20 accordingly?

]]> Fri, 03 Nov 2023 08:51:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 349 We all get lost sometimes. Spiritually, from the standpoint of the Psalms, we might say that we also stray from God's path. How might we understand James 5:19-20 accordingly? We all get lost sometimes. Spiritually, from the standpoint of the Psalms, we might say that we also stray from God's path. How might we understand James 5:19-20 accordingly? No 88 88 Episode 88: Covered full drcameronlee.podbean.com/c272a83f-b70d-3c0a-8b26-62dafd07b8aa https://share.transistor.fm/s/2ca53b17 The idea of "covering over a multitude of sins" is part of the very last line of James (and is found in 1 Peter 4:8) as well. We may have tried to "cover up" our sins, but this is not, of course, what James means. In this episode, we explore the connections of this teaching to the Old Testament.

]]> The idea of "covering over a multitude of sins" is part of the very last line of James (and is found in 1 Peter 4:8) as well. We may have tried to "cover up" our sins, but this is not, of course, what James means. In this episode, we explore the connections of this teaching to the Old Testament.

]]> Fri, 03 Nov 2023 08:53:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 392 The idea of "covering over a multitude of sins" is part of the very last line of James (and is found in 1 Peter 4:8) as well. We may have tried to "cover up" our sins, but this is not, of course, what James means. In this episode, we explore the connections of this teaching to the Old Testament. The idea of "covering over a multitude of sins" is part of the very last line of James (and is found in 1 Peter 4:8) as well. We may have tried to "cover up" our sins, but this is not, of course, what James means. In this episode, we explore the connectio No 89 89 Episode 89: The church police full drcameronlee.podbean.com/4200dfe6-eaa3-30f2-ada7-4e1649fdb4f0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/43d24d1c James 5:19-20 suggests that our concern for one another should include correcting those who stray from God's way. But does that mean that people should act like church police? This episode explores how such an idea would actually be a contradiction of what James teaches throughout the letter.

]]> James 5:19-20 suggests that our concern for one another should include correcting those who stray from God's way. But does that mean that people should act like church police? This episode explores how such an idea would actually be a contradiction of what James teaches throughout the letter.

]]> Fri, 03 Nov 2023 08:56:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 316 James 5:19-20 suggests that our concern for one another should include correcting those who stray from God's way. But does that mean that people should act like church police? This episode explores how such an idea would actually be a contradiction of what James teaches throughout the letter. James 5:19-20 suggests that our concern for one another should include correcting those who stray from God's way. But does that mean that people should act like church police? This episode explores how such an idea would actually be a contradiction of wha No 90 90 Episode 90: Conclusion full drcameronlee.podbean.com/138e1687-7e38-33a4-9d1f-3642f3b46ece https://share.transistor.fm/s/7032fbda We've reached the end of our study of James, and in this episode, we review some of the main ideas of the letter. Thank you for listening!

]]> We've reached the end of our study of James, and in this episode, we review some of the main ideas of the letter. Thank you for listening!

]]> Fri, 03 Nov 2023 08:58:00 -0700 drcameronlee drcameronlee 312 We've reached the end of our study of James, and in this episode, we review some of the main ideas of the letter. Thank you for listening! We've reached the end of our study of James, and in this episode, we review some of the main ideas of the letter. Thank you for listening! No