This morning we are going to begin a study through the book of James. This book is about spiritual maturity. My goal is not just to give you information but to help you grow spiritually. I strongly encourage you to take notes, write comments and definitions in the margins of your Bible, and prayerfully ask God each week to teach you something that can help you grow closer to Christ. [Use Mesopotamian map]

Transition

Today we are going to focus our attention on the first verse of this epistle and give you an overview of the content of this spiritually nourishing book.