The letter of James is among the most ‘suspect’ books of the New Testament. It was by no means clear that it would be included in the list of authoritative books of the Christian church (called the canon) until very late in the day.
Reading it quickly you would not find too much specifically ‘Christian’ content in it. Most famously Martin Luther declared James ‘an epistle of straw’. He wrote somewhat dismissively, “I will not have him in my Bible to be numbered among the true chief books, though I would not thereby prevent anyone from including or extolling him as he pleases, for there are otherwise many good sayings in him.”
There is also controversy about who James is, sections of the church refuse to believe that he exists!
Closer examination of the letter, however, shows that none of these charges stand up. Time and time again we find the echoes of the Master’s words reverberate throughout the book. James did make it into the canon – and rightly so.
Endorsements
This is a uniquely accessible insight into the penetrating themes of a powerful Bible book, written with astute pastoral observations and penetrating up-to-date application. All that is best in accurate, applied, relevant Bible teaching!
Jonathan Lamb Minister–at–large for Keswick Ministries, IFES Vice President, and former Director, Langham Preaching
...thoughtful, readable, quotable and challenging. Here is timeless wisdom applied for Christians in a 21st Century world.
Rev Ian Coffey, Senior Minister, Mutley Baptist Church, Plymouth
Every budding preacher will be inspired by it, since it comes from an accomplished preacher who has preached and lived it. Every Christian will be helped by it. The book is well researched, clearly written and full of judicious quotes and excellent illustrations. It is as practical as the letter it expounds. This really is a superb book!
Steve Brady Senior Minister, First Baptist Church, Grand Cayman
'The book is suitable for any Christian who wants to take a careful look at James's letter. The author's style is straightforward and friends, with generous use of illustration, but not superficial.'
Evangelicals Now
I was greatly challenged by Wisdom from Heaven and shall dip into it for years to come. It is succinct, scholarly and eminently practical. Congratulations Derek - thank you for opening up James for us all afresh.
Lyndon Bowring Executive Chairman, Christian Action Research and Education (CARE)
Derek Tidball is visiting scholar at Spurgeon's College, London. Previously, he served as principal of the London School of Theology, where he lectured in pastoral theology. He is appreciated as a Bible expositor at conferences and conventions for which he is much in demand.
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