Run to God No Matter What
James 5:12-18
- What relationship do you think 5:12 has to the section before it (5:7–11) about patience and grumbling? What connection does it have to the verses on prayer (5:13–18) that follow?
- Read through 5:13–18. Some say that what holds these verses together is that God's people should run to God and acknowledge him as God no matter what happens in this world. Why do you think they say that? Do you agree? If so, how does that apply to whatever is going on in your life right now?
- From verses 14–16, it becomes clear that a church family should pray for its people who are physically weak or sick. What does it teach? List each instruction James gives. Who or what does the healing? The oil? The elders? If you become very sick, what would you do in the light of this passage?
- Vv. 15b–16 points out that sometimes there is a connection between sickness and sin. What might James be referring to in those verses? The word translated "healed in v. 16 is usually translated as "saved" or "rescued" in the Bible. What is the Bible promising in v. 16a?
- The central thought holding together this passage seems to be v.16b: "The fervent prayer of a person right with God accomplishes much." How should that truth affect hard times, good times, and times of sickness?
- Vv. 17–18 summarize the report of Elijah found in 1 Kings 17–18. How does Elijah illustrate the truths taught in vv. 13–16? What does Elijah teach you about prayer?
- Be sure to spend some time sharing prayer requests with one another and praying together in light of this passage.
2013 Study Series • Copyright © 2013, Lake Avenue Church