Servant of God and Christ

Every word of Scripture is inspired by God, so each word and phrase is worthy of careful study. This includes even the opening greetings of the New Testament Epistles, which we might otherwise be tempted to rush through. When we take the time to pay close attention to these greetings, however, we can learn much about the human author and his theology.

Today’s passage features James’ opening greetings to his readers. Several aspects of these greetings bear special mention. First, James does not mention that he is the physical half brother of Jesus. This is a striking omission, and as one commentator notes, it perhaps indicates that James understands that sharing a bloodline with the Messiah gives him no special authority. James’ authority comes from his vision of the risen Christ and appointment by Jesus to the Apostolic office, not from family ties (1 Cor. 15:7). As is true for the rest of us, James’ spiritual relationship to Jesus ultimately matters more than his physical relationship.

Second, James identifies himself as “a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ” (James 1:1). The title “servant” conveys both honor and humility. Several honored figures in the Old Testament, including Moses, were called “the servant of the Lord” (Josh. 1:1). There is no greater position for any of us to hold than to be God’s servant. The title also shows humility, since servants are those who look out for others, who put the needs of others before their own. All Christians, including Christian leaders, are to serve others (Matt. 23:11). Matthew Henry comments that “those who are highest in office or attainments in the church of Christ are but servants. They should not therefore act as masters, but as ministers.”

Third, James closely connects service to God and service to Jesus (James 1:1). Some commentators argue that James does not have a highly developed Christology (doctrine of Christ), but they are mistaken. No faithful first-century Jew would associate God with someone he believed to be a mere man. Clearly, James believes that Jesus is more than an ordinary human being. Essentially, James holds forth that to serve God is to serve Jesus and vice versa. Moreover, James’ use of the title “Lord” for Jesus confirms that he has the highest view of Christ. “Lord” translates the Greek word kyrios, which is a title often used for God in the Greek translation of the Old Testament. James believes that Jesus is both God and man.