I have just finished James chapter 1. This has to be one of the easiest to understand and powerful chapters in the Bible as far as what God expects from us:
It talks about the testing of our faith producing endurance, so that we may become perfect and complete. Also it promises us the crown of life to those who endure temptation and love God.
This chapter also encourages us to receive the word which it says, has the power to save our souls. I think this helps repute the once saved always save theory. It is through the power of God’s word and it’s ability to help change us from sons of this world into the sons of God that we are saved.
It also talks about being doers of the word and not hearers only, thereby deceiving ourselves. Hearing the word and not doing it, is effectively disobedience to God, and we can see from other places in the Bible what happens to those that disobey God. As it says, work out your salvation with fear and trembling.
One of the great sections of the Bible is James 1:27 – Undefiled and pure religion in the sight of God and the Father is this: To care for orphans and widows in their distress, keeping himself without spot, set apart from the world.
Please read the full chapter here: James Chapter 1