Living Faith

“Some biblical books have literary forms that makes them difficult to grasp in the verse-by-verse format of a commentary and, thus, need a thematic, theological exposition. That is what Robert Plummer has done for James, laying out its teaching logically and clearly in the best tradition of evangelical biblical studies. He avoids side issues that would distract from the main themes and makes those main themes clear for lay reader and scholar alike. For that I congratulate him.”

Peter H. Davids

“Robert Plummer offers an accessible analysis of the epistle of James. He shows that it is not an epistle of straw but an epistle for those who need to do more in their faith to follow in the way of Jesus’s teachings. He explains how James provides instruction on a living faith that seeks wisdom from above, endures trials, spurns the trappings of wealth, speaks without anger, perseveres in prayer, and keeps Jesus’s command to love one another.”

Michael F. Bird

“Robert Plummer’s theology of the book of James is both scholarly and accessible, reminding the reader that genuine faith is a living faith. Themes such as faith and works, trials and temptations, and poverty and riches are explored not only in this letter but also within the broader narrative of Scripture. A great resource for those pursuing greater biblical and theological insights from this epistle.”

Roger Severino

“An influential German commentator once declared that James has no theology. Robert Plummer has laid to rest any such idea. By expanding our definition of theology to include biblical teaching that is firmly grounded in an understanding of God and his saving purposes, Plummer has clearly demonstrated that James most certainly has a theology! James speaks of the Father and the Son and many of the traditional doctrines that embody the Christian faith.”

William Varner

“The title Living Faith says it all: The book of James captures both a faith that is alive and a faith that enables living rightly in our day. Robert Plummer unpacks the theology of James, depicting a faith that is vibrant, dynamic, and yet intensely practical. Living Faith explores the great themes of James—faith and works, trials and temptations, poverty and riches, speech and anger, and, most importantly, prayer—to issue a compelling call for a faith that reveals the reality of one’s salvation through obedience to Jesus Christ and deeds motivated by his word and Spirit. As a former student in Plummer’s class on the exegesis of James, I know that his engaging exposition of James rings true because Plummer’s life, ministry, and teaching are a beacon to the trustworthiness of his Savior who inspires such faith in his followers.”

Robert B. Crotty

“The outstanding feature of Robert Plummer’s study Living Faith is its combination of scholarly depth and pastoral insight. He reveals the letter of James as ‘a faithful recapitulation of Jesus’s teachings,’ emphasizing the necessity for true believers to demonstrate a living faith through observable acts of obedience and love. The first two chapters are true gems, particularly insightful, enriching readers’ understanding and appreciation of the letter. Plummer’s work is invaluable and most timely.”

Patrick J. Hartin