James, bondman of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are in the dispersion, greeting.

Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for, having been proved, he shall receive the crown of life, which He has promised to them that love him.

Wherefore, laying aside all filthiness and abounding of wickedness, accept with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.

Hear, my beloved brethren: Has not God chosen the poor as to the world, rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to them that love him?

And do not they blaspheme the excellent name which has been called upon you?

And the scripture was fulfilled which says, Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness, and he was called Friend of God.

Behold also the ships, which are so great, and driven by violent winds, are turned about by a very small rudder, wherever the pleasure of the helmsman will.

and the tongue is fire, the world of unrighteousness; the tongue is set in our members, the defiler of the whole body, and which sets fire to the course of nature, and is set on fire of hell.

This is not the wisdom which comes down from above, but earthly, natural, devilish.

Whence come wars and whence fightings among you? Is it not thence, from your pleasures, which war in your members?

Think ye that the scripture speaks in vain? Does the Spirit which has taken his abode in us desire enviously?