Today we consider the last words of James in this remarkable and highly practical book, and they do not disappoint. There is no “ease-up” at the end with a polite greeting, but a strong and serious charge. As difficult as the charge may seem, James also supplies the fuel for the task. Let’s give brief consideration to these final and serious verses.
James’ final words are connected with the “sin problem” addressed immediately preceding our text (see especially vv. 15-16). While some may freely confess their sins and solicit prayers from their brethren, others may drift further away or need someone to confront the error of their way.
Note the following points from the final two verses:
STANDARD OF FAITHFULNESS
The fact that brethren are instructed to bring one back implies there must be a standard that Christians are responsible for living under. James says it is “the truth.” When one departs from the truth he has departed from the standard by which the Lord holds him accountable. Our Lord Himself said that the “word is truth” in John 17:17. The way or the path of truth that has been laid down by inspiration is the standard (see 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Pt. 1:3). Jesus says that His words will judge the world on the final day (see Jn. 12:48).
POSSIBILITY OF DEPARTING
A standard implies the possibility of not measuring up or attaining to it. The language of these two verses also clearly convey the fact that a Christian can become lost and have need of being saved again. He can “wander from the truth” (v. 19). He can have need of being brought back (v. 19). He may be again classified as a “sinner” (v. 20). His soul can again be saved from death (v. 20). He can have his sins covered once again (v. 21).
PROCEDURE OF DEPARTURE
Two forms of the word “wander” appear in our text. The ESV describes this individual who leaves the truth as one who “wanders” (v. 19). In verse 20 James refers to his “wandering.” Some form of the word “wander” is only used a few other times in the New Testament. In 2 Timothy 4:4, Paul speaks of the one who has wandered away from the truth by listening to “myths” rather than “the truth.” Jude 13 uses the phrase “wandering stars” to refer to false teachers. In James, 2 Timothy, Jude and many other books, Scripture explicitly mentions the possibility of being deceived and led astray through false teachers. Such can have to do with faith and practice, life and morality, and many times both.
METHOD OF RETRIEVAL
While James does not get specific into procedures to use, he does speak of “bringing him back,” which clearing implies going after him. While we certainly “hope and pray” for the return of Christians who have fallen away, we must be willing to leave the ninety-nine to find the wandering sheep and help them find their way back! (compare with Lk. 15).
THE MOTIVATION
Knowledge is a vital factor in this pursuit. Without the knowledge that a Christian can wander, has wandered, and that Christian souls can be in eternal danger, he will not possess the drive to seek to bring back a lost brother or sister in Christ. Jude gives emphasis to the serious nature of this work, as well as the procedure being tailored to what that person needs when he says, “have mercy on those who doubt; save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh” (vv. 22-23).
What a vital labor of love that we can have for our wayward brethren!
Daren Schroeder
