Lesson 1 (Sept 27-Oct 3), James, The Lord's Brother

What does it mean "blood is thicker than water?" How do you match that with "there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother?" How do you rate James as a brother of Jesus?

James, The Brother of Jesus

1. At the cross why did Jesus ask John and not his brother James to look after his mother?
2. Why were Jesus family members embarrassed with His ministry?  Should they not have been proud of Him?

James the Believer

1. How easy is it to be converted from one opinion to another? What could have made James a believer in Jesus?
2. Why would the followers of Jesus look up to James as a leader? 

James and the Gospel

1. As we get older do we get more legalistic or more liberal? What influences our change if any?
2. Though James emphasizes faith more times than works why do we remember him for what he says only about works?

To the Twelve Tribes Scattered Abroad

1. Why would Christians wish to be identified with the Jews? Why might they resent being identified with the twelve tribes?
2. What can Adventists learn from Jews? What Jewish characteristics should we avoid?

James and Jesus

1. Why do you think the author does not identify himself as the brother of Jesus? Would people accept his authority more?
2. Is it harder or easier for a close relative to accept the importance of a person?