I’m not sure scandalous is a term theologians would use to describe a book of the bible, but I’m not a theologian so it doesn’t matter 🙂

But truth be told, it’s the only word which I can aptly describe as the message of the book of James. My good friends at Merriam-Webster define scandalous as offensive to propriety or morality. That’s exactly was James does.

If we say we are Christians and live by faith, shouldn’t our lives reflect that? James discusses this. What good is it to tell our brethren to be warm and filled, yet do nothing to help the situation?  James discusses this. Do you know there is life or death, blessing and curses in the tongue? James discusses this. Have you ever been a victim of favoritism in the church? James discusses this.

James takes Christian morality and challenges the Church to look internally to see how the issue can be resolved. Essentially, it’s my favorite phrase as the moment: Don’t just go to church. BE the church.

St. Francis of Assisi said it best: Preach the gospel always. When necessary, use words.

I’ll be teaching a six-week series through the book James starting Tuesday, July 6th and continuing through Tuesday, August 10th. The journey will challenge us to look at our Christianity differently and discuss topics bubbling silently in the Church. I’m so excited to walk through this book with women from southern California and invite you to join in the journey towards life change!

If you’re not in the SoCal area but would like to join in, we’ll be webcasting each week into homes, coffee houses, and yes, even other churches. Join the movement as we change the church—by starting with ourselves.

Would you help with my research by answering the following questions? Feel free to answer anonymously 🙂

  • Have you ever felt unwelcomed or marginalized at a church because of a financial disparity? If so, please explain.
  • Have you ever gossiped about someone at church? If so, when was the last time this occurred?
  • When was the last time you gave money or resources to a church member in need?
  • When was the last time someone from church called you out on a personal sin in your life? (EG: a mentor, friend, accountability partner, etc.)
  • If there was one thing about your church you would want to change, what would it be?

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