Apart from the necessary chapter-by-chapter study of the letter, it is useful to list the topics referred to.

(i)   Endurance of difficulties and trials (1: 1-12, 5 :7-11), (ii)        The origin of temptations and trials (1 : 13-18),

(iii)        How to control the tongue (1:26, 3: 1-18),

(iv) Concern for and sympathy with one's neighbours (2:8, 2: 13, 3:13, 4:2, 4:11-12, 5:14-15 and 19-20),

(v) The power of prayer (1:5-8, 4:2,5:13-18),

(vi)        Concern for the poor and humble (1 :9-11, 1:27-2:9, 2:15-16, 4:13-5 :6),

(vii)       True and false wisdom (3:13-18, 4:1-10),

(viii)      Anointing and praying for the sick (5:14-16),

(ix)               The relation of faith and actions (l: 22-27, 2: 10-26),

 

The last topic-the relation of faith and actions-is dealt with specifically in the passages noted, but runs through the whole letter.

 

The language in which the letter is written is often vivid and the writer has a gift for making sharp comparisons which must have helped his readers remember his teaching. In this we are reminded of the brilliant comparisons and parables in the teaching of Jesus as recorded in the synoptic gospels.

 

 

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