A) We are currently studying James chapter 5, verse 16. As we near the end of the book, we may complete it in this session. Verse 16 instructs us to confess our sins to one another and pray for each other so that we may be healed. It’s important to note that James is addressing Christians, not non-Christians. This epistle is believed to be the first written for believers to share.

B) James presents a clear directive: confess our sins to one another and pray for each other so that we may be healed. This statement carries significant theological implications. The first is the expectation that we should be able to confess our sins to each other. This can only occur if there is mutual trust, ensuring that shared confessions will be held in strict confidence. Remember, placing confidence in an unfaithful person is like having a broken tooth or a foot out of joint.

C) After confession, we are expected to pray for each other. When we pray for one another, it’s not about shaming the other person. It’s about seeking the Lord’s mercy and grace for those who are struggling. Where sin abounds, grace abounds even more. There’s no one so far gone that they can’t ask for help, and those they ask are never too far away.

D) A critical aspect of this text is the final instruction: confess our sins to each other, pray for each other, so that we may be healed. It doesn’t say that we may be saved - we are already saved. The issue with sin is that it tarnishes us, which is why Jesus said, “You are already clean, but you still need to be washed.” What we need most is the healing power of God to wash away our sins, not for salvation, but for sanctification, so that we can more accurately and faithfully represent Jesus.