Theme: Double-minded

                One of our key words in the book of James was clearly “double-minded”. We saw it many times. In fact, when I made a list, not just of the word but the idea, I was astounded. I’m not going to write about it but just give you references. It’s worth another run through the book to look at them specific to defining what James means when he talks about it.

                I’ve, tragically, switched to NASB in the last two weeks which makes a mess of my NIV notations, but the first use of the word in 1:6 means divided; to be at variance with one’s self. NASB uses the word doubt which didn't convey that idea to me nearly as well as "double-minded". Its opposite is often “pure” or the idea of single mindedness. James may illustrate it by opposites that can’t co-exist, e.g. earthly wisdom, heavenly wisdom, or by apparent integration, as in faith and works agreeing.

                Here’s a list if you want to study it for yourself.

                1:6, 1:8, 1:22, 1:25, 1:27

                2:10, 2:22

                3:10, 3:11, 3:12, 3:13, 3:15, 3:17,

                4:3, 4:5, 4:6, 4:7-10, 4:11

                5:10, 5:11, 5:15

                It took me one and a half times through the book to get it clear in my own mind. That’s why I made this list, in order to try to get what was so important. And it surely is one of the most important ideas in the book. The biggest idea, submission to God, cannot be practiced from a place of double mindedness.