Synopsis:

Have you ever played the blame game? How did it work out for you? James brother of Jesus gives us the most practical book in the New Testament. In it he talks about our responsibility as Christians. Playing the blame game is just a way to avoid responsibility. Taking responsibility, however, is key to living the best Christian life possible.

Sermon Questions:

1. What was one of your earliest responsibilities growing up? What did you learn from it and how did it shape you?

2. Why did people play the blame game? Why is it hard for people to take responsibility?

3. James talks about 5 ways we try to avoid taking responsibility for our Christian life, when we blame: 1 God 2 Injustice 3 Our Words 4 Others 5 The Rich. Which of these do you tend to want to blame for your current difficulties? How can you get beyond this blame game?

4. Read the first and last few verses of the book of James. What does this say about God’s goal for us now?