they do and not by faith alone” (2:24, my emphasis). This was enough for Luther to fume that: “James mangles the Scriptures and thereby opposes Paul and all Scripture”. Strong words! Needless to say, those looking for evidence that the Bible is not the inspired word of God leap on this verse with delight. But we should not be too fast to dismiss this book. Despite the criticisms made against it, this letter has persistently found its way into the hearts and affections of countless Christians through