Introduction:

1. This is certainly one of the most difficult “one another” commands.

2. Pride and shame both hinder the fulfillment of this command.

3. James presses an attitude that transcends the desire to save face.

Discussion:

I. The Context of the Command

A. James 5:13-20 addresses the Christian’s overall well-being.

B. It addresses matters of suffering and joy (vs. 13), physical sickness (vv. 14-15), and sin-sickness (vv. 16; 19-20).

C. Confession is an integral part of total well-being.

II. The Biblical Picture of Confession

A. Proverbs 28:13 connects confession to receiving compassion.

B. 1 John 1:9 connects it to receiving God’s forgiveness.

C. James 5:16 connects it to our prayers for the good of one another with the aim of healing the sin-sick soul.

III. The Priesthood of Believers

A. This passage does violence to the notion of confession to a priest or other “clergy” members.

B. 1 Peter 2:4-5 dubs every Christian a part of the priesthood and therefore able to offer sacrifice to God, such as prayers.

IV. Facilitating Confession

A. As mentioned above, confessing our faults is difficult.

B. This is where humility is imperative (1 Peter 5:5).

1. For the one confessing it removes the need to justify self.

2. For the one hearing the confession, it suppresses harsh judgment and promotes prayerful efforts to help.

1. As all these “one another” commands, these are for our good.

2. This entire section is about total well-being, especially of the soul.

3. May we fulfill these “one another” commands and thrive together.