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Answer
The book of James begins by discussing the topic of suffering. James encourages his believing readers to “consider it pure joy” when they encounter challenges in life that test their faith «My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; », (James 1:2). They can view their sufferings with joy because they understand that trials resulting from their faith develop endurance «knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. », (James 1:3). This is quite simple: when believers persist in faith despite opposition, they are cultivating perseverance. However, James then expresses something puzzling. He advises his readers to “let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing” «But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. », (James 1:4, NKJV).
As we explore what it means to allow patience to complete its work, it is crucial to clarify our terms. The term typically translated as “patience” does not imply “passive tolerance,” but rather “active perseverance.” According to many scholars, the concept is that an individual remains steadfast in the face of opposition or persists despite challenges. A prime example is Hebrews 12:1, where the same term is used to describe how believers “run the race” of faith. The depiction of a runner is not one of resignation but of purposefulness, enduring the pain to achieve a predetermined goal. Similarly, as the believer perseveres through trials, they develop in endurance and resolve «knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. », (James 1:3).
So, what does it mean to “let patience [endurance, steadfastness] have its perfect work”? Faithful endurance has an end goal: perfection, completeness, wholeness. Endurance leads to spiritual maturity. It is not the suffering that brings about maturity, but the act of endurance. Believers are instructed to “let patience have its perfect work,” emphasizing the importance of our response. Consistency in life, especially in times of trials, is what fosters Christian maturity, not just suffering.
James does not specify a timeline for this perfection or maturity. Based on the Greek words used, it could refer to maturity in this life or eschatological perfection, leading to differing opinions among scholars. Throughout much of the New Testament, and later in James, the positive outcome resulting from endurance is linked to eternal life or the return of Jesus (1 Peter 1:7;James 1:12;Romans 5:3-4). It is possible that James is alluding to our eternal future with God here, providing hope for the present «remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father; », (1 Thessalonians 1:3). By enduring trials and remaining faithful to God, we allow steadfastness to bring about its perfect work, ultimately leading to eternal perfection.
How can we achieve this? How can we “let patience have its perfect work”? Firstly, we can endure trials, seeking strength and hope from God during difficult times «My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; », (James 1:2,12) «Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to the
From that love him., (James 1:2,12). As mentioned, endurance is not passive but active: we should live the same way during times of persecution and affliction as we do during times of safety and comfort. This means not lashing out at those who oppress us or changing our walk with God to avoid discomfort (Matthew 16:24-26; Romans 12:17-21). By enduring and not interfering, we allow patience to have its perfect work.
Second, we can ask God for wisdom. The next verse of James instructs believers to ask God for wisdom, who graciously gives to everyone who asks «If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. », (James 1:5). Wisdom and Christian maturity are associated in several other passages, and we need God’s wisdom to endure opposition (1 Corinthians 2:6; Colossians 1:28). As we persevere in trials and ask God for wisdom, we will experience the spiritual growth Paul talks about in Romans 5:3: “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
