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[[File:Saint James the Just.jpg|thumbnail|right|250px|Neo-Byzantine icon of [[James the Just]] ]]
[[File:Saint James the Just.jpg|thumbnail|right|250px|Neo-Byzantine icon of [[James the Just]] ]]
The '''Epistle of James''' refers to the writings of James, the [[Bishop]] of [[Jerusalem]], the [[Lord]]'s brother and one of the [[Twelve Apostles]]. It may be one of the earliest written works of the [[New Testament]], possibly as early as the late 40s. There is reason to conclude that this letter was written prior to the Jerusalem Council, which was held in A.D. 50. The authenticity of this inspired work has been fully accepted since at least the third century, as demonstrated by the various lists of the Sacred books drawn up since the fourth century,<ref>[http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08275b.htm Epistle of St. James] Catholic Encyclopedia</ref> although debate continues about who actually wrote it.
The '''Epistle of James''' refers to the writings of James, the [[Bishop]] of [[Jerusalem]], the [[Lord]]'s brother and one of the [[Twelve Apostles]]. It may be one of the earliest written works of the [[New Testament]], possibly as early as the late 40s. There is reason to conclude that this letter was written prior to the Jerusalem Council, which was held in A.D. 50. The authenticity of this inspired work has been fully accepted since at least the third century, as demonstrated by the various lists of the Sacred books drawn up since the fourth century,<ref>[http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08275b.htm Epistle of St. James] Catholic Encyclopedia</ref> although debate continues about who actually wrote it.
In terms of theological themes of the Epistle of James, the epistle centers on practical Christian living and emphasizes the importance of good works alongside faith. Some key theological themes include: the nature of true [[faith]], emphasizing that it manifests itself in good works and a life transformed by the [[Holy Spirit]]. Other themes include enduring suffering and trials, seeking [[wisdom]] from [[God]], and caring for the vulnerable like orphans and widows.
In support of James as the author, as the Epistle indicates, is its simplicity of introduction of the author (who would be familiar to all) and linguistic similarities between this Epistle and a speech given by James in [[Acts of the Apostles]] chapter 15.
In support of James as the author, as the Epistle indicates, is its simplicity of introduction of the author (who would be familiar to all) and linguistic similarities between this Epistle and a speech given by James in [[Acts of the Apostles]] chapter 15.