James 1:6 But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
“Wavereth” is not a common English word. I have not heard it used in any conversation, whether casual or formal. Some Bible translators consider it synonymous with doubt, but that is far too narrow. Besides, James writes with a personal story which reaches deep into heart of the matter. He is writing about an unsettled spirit that is void of a strong foundation.
Jerusalem was the birthplace of the New Testament church. The Holy Ghost was given in an upper room. It spilled out onto the cobblestoned streets and spread throughout the city. Jerusalem began as the epicenter of revival, but as the years went by, persecution and complacency minimized its influence. Antioch became the next center launching the Acts 2:38 message to the outer parts of Asia Minor. Back in Jerusalem, James kept the faith and the authority. He was called a “pillar” in Gal. 2:9, guiding the apostles.
James was the half-brother of Jesus, though he was not an early adopter of Jesus’ Lordship. Perhaps familiarity limited his sight of Who Jesus was. When James finally saw Jesus as Lord, he referred to himself as “a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.” The matter was settled! When James saw the Lord, he also saw himself and it solidified the truth of the Messiah..
Jesus performed miracles which could not be explained away. He did wonders among the people with tangible evidence. His teachings astounded the pharisees until they said of Him, “he teaches as one who has authority.” Jesus, the Author, had authority as any author would over His own book. James saw all of this and more. It is assumed that Mary spoke to James about Jesus at an early age, but for whatever reason, James had to see Jesus for himself. The testimony of his own mother and her virgin birth was not enough. However, when he settled, there was no room for wavering.
Winds of doctrine are common. Influences from unstable people also cause disruptions. Yet there comes a time when you must stop wavering. Settle. Put down roots and ground yourself. Determine your purpose and make up your mind. Find a place to serve. The taker is always subject to restlessness. I submit that we resist the spirit of the age which drives us like the wind. We must be confident and resolute that God has placed us together in this house and in this era “for such a time as this!” The salvation of our communities may very well rest on the strength of a determined church!
Pastor Jeffrey Harpole