Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and wonderful results. (James 5:16)(NLT)
The worship profile below is taken from the Praise and Worship Study Bible published by Tyndale House. This is a great study Bible for anyone who wants to learn more about biblical praise and worship.
James holds a significant place in early church tradition. This James about whom we speak was likely the half brother of Jesus. And although he had earlier rejected the claims of Christ (John 7:5), James later became an important leader in the church of Jerusalem. One of the more significant instances of his leadership can be found in Acts 15, where he spoke in defense of Gentile evangelism. While James was not one of the Twelve, in a broader sense he can be called an apostle due to his foundational role in the church. Tradition has also named James as the author of the Bible book bearing his name. This book has much to tell us about trials, morality, good works, impartiality, and prayer, and has been embraced by many for its practical wisdom.
James the Worshiper
To James, righteous living was the hallmark of faithful Christian service. Small wonder, then, that James emphasized confession and prayer as staples of Christian worship. Confession of sin is designed to remind us of our imperfections and our dependence on God's saving grace in Christ--a basic part of worship's progression toward spiritual renewal. Prayer keeps us in touch with the one whom we worship. Public prayer increases our awareness of the needs of the body to which we belong. And, as James writes, it has "great power and wonderful results" (James 5:16)(NLT).
Learning from James
Regarding our fellowship as believers, James gives us some important reminders that, if applied, can build a unified body. He reminds us to show impartiality: Don't have special seating for the rich and famous while neglecting those who are poor or those who may seem less important. Our worship should reflect the impartiality of God. Inclusion, not exclusion, must be a regulative principle in our worship.
James also reminds us that we should not be too quick to ascend God's throne of judgment. Too often fellowship or worship among Christians is hindered by those who stand in judgment over their brothers and sisters in Christ. James reminds us that we are to obey the law, not pronounce it (James 4:11-12). James also reminds us that corporate worship brings us encouragement as we suffer the trials of this world.
Following the Example
Reflect on the practical principles laid down by James. To what extent does your own fellowship heed James's wise advice? Does your worship reflect the inclusiveness for which James call? Are the important committees that plan the worship experience cliquish and exclusive? Do too many find themselves on the periphery of active church involvement?
Often judgmental attitudes can paralyze both our worship and our service. Christ calls us to show grace and forgiveness, especially toward those with whom we don't agree! How do you fare in this area? Is confession an integral part of your worship? Do your prayer sessions reflect the needs of the local congregation as well as the universal church?