Whoever Turns a Sinner From the Error of Their Way

James 5:1-20

Key Verse 20

“remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover over a multitude of sins.”

1. Look at v.1-6. Review these verses with James 1:10-11, 2:1-4, 4:1-3 and 4:13-16; what “wisdom” had infected the churches of James’ time? What wisdom did James share about “rich people”? What is the basis of their judgment?

2. Look at v.7-12. How many times is the word “patience” repeated? What does this tell us about the Christian experience on earth? How does this experience contrast with “the rich” experience in verses 1-6? In v.11 James makes reference to “those who have persevered.” What role does “perseverance” play in our Christian life (see James 1:4)?

3. Look at v.13-18. How many scenarios does James list in v.13-14; what do the suggested responses have in common? Describe James’ view of answered prayers; consider his previous points about unanswered prayers (James 1:6-8, 4:1-3). What makes the difference in our prayer life with God?

4. Look at v.19-20. Based on the book of James, how does a Christian “wander from the truth”? How does correcting “error” correspond with this book’s overall theme? What do these verses reveal about God's purpose for this book in the Bible? How does helping someone come to the truth, actually help the one helping (James 2:12-13)?