The Remnant
James 1:1 “. . . . To the twelve tribes who are dispersed abroad: Greetings.”
(I might revise my views on the tribes later, as I learn more)
Through many generations, we’ve seen Israel split into two kingdoms, we’ve seen idol worship, captivity and intermarriage. It’s miraculous that there’s even a hint of Jewish culture left. Yet, throughout generations of dilution, there have been promise keepers, a small remnant, who kept the faith alive in spirit and in practice. Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Caleb, Daniel and Nehemiah are but a few of the promise keepers.
There were Jews who rejected Jesus as Messiah (ex Caiaphas) and Jews who welcomed Him (ex Stephen). My current opinion is that James is writing to the remnant, the promise keepers who, like Stephen gladly embraced the arrival of Messiah and are continuing to carry the banner of the promise, even to today.
I posit that today, this remnant is dispersed among Catholics, Jews, Baptists, churches of Christ, Torah observant, non-denoms et al. Barring other enlightenment as we go, this will be the lens through which I’ll explore the epistle of James.
Father, it is our desire to be counted among Your Promise Keepers. We want to spread Your Gospel, teaching others about Your desire for reconciliation and relationship with Your people. Feed us, encourage us, discipline us and make us useful in Your Kingdom!