Paul wrote this letter after being forced to leave the city of Thessalonica rather suddenly (Acts 17). Though his time there had been short, the Gospel had taken root quickly. A young church was born — full of faith, courage, and questions about how to live while waiting for the return of Christ.

This Sunday, we will complete our study of the Epistle of James, turning to chapters 4 and 5. James has spoken plainly from the beginning. He has not allowed us to hide behind correct doctrine, religious language, or good intentions. His concern throughout has been simple and searching: What does living faith actually look like? In these final chapters, James presses that question home.