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"There is one Lawgiver..."

Text: James 4:12

THE FEAR OF THE LORD

James had the highest regard for the Law of God. This is clearly demonstrated in his epistle. Together with this high regard for the Law was his great regard for the Lord as the Lawgiver.

“There is one Lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy.
Who are you to judge another?”
James 4:12

1. “There is one Lawgiver”

a) This is an obvious reference to the Lord God.

b) He is the Divine Author of the Law.

2. “Who is able to save and to destroy”

a) The Lord God has the authority and power to fully save.

i) To forgive those who turn to Him in repentance for their sins.

ii) To pardon and to cleanse people from their sins.

iii) To receive them and give them salvation.

iv) To restore and to bless those who fear Him.

b) The Lord God also has the authority and power to destroy.

i) Those who persist in evil speaking.

ii) Those who break the Law with total disregard.

iii) Those who think that they are “saved” but their behaviour would indicate otherwise.

3. “Who are you to judge another”

a) The idea of “judging” in this immediate context is that of speaking evil.

b) The full context of James 4 is best borne in mind.

i) Warring

ii) Lusting

iii) Worldliness

iv) Pride

v) Influence of the devil

vi) Blatant disregard for the law

vii) Spiteful evil speaking

The person who judges the law and the brethren, is in danger of being destroyed by the Lord!