Often, people think that James, in his letter, goes beyond the demands of the Gospel and “adds onto the faith.” But when we examine Jesus’ demands on His followers, we see that James was saying nearly the same thing. This chart is from N.T. Wright’s new book, The New Testament in Its World.

Joy in the midst of trials.    James 1:2 cf. Mt. 5:10-12/Luke 6:22-23

Importance of perfection.    James 1:2 cf. Mt. 5:48

Gods generosity.    James 1:5 cf. Mt. 7:7-9/Lk. 11:9-11

Faith and doubt.    James 1:6 cf. Mt. 21:21

One who perseveres will be saved.    James 1:12 cf. Mt. 10:22; 24:13

Danger of anger.   James 1:20 cf. Mt. 5:22

Importance of doing/obeying the Word.   James 1:22-25 cf. Mt. 7:24-27/Lk. 6:46-49

Blessed are the poor.    James 2:5 cf. Mt. 5:3,5/Lk. 6:20

Love as a command.    James 2:8 cf. Mk. 12:38-44/Mt. 22:39-40

Keeping the whole law.    James 2:10 cf. Mt. 5:19

Do not murder.    James 2:11; 5:6 cf.  Mt. 5:21-30

Importance of mercy.    James 2:13 cf. Mt. 5:7

Friendship with God.    James 2:23 cf. Mt. 6:24/Lk. 16:13

Blessed are the peacemakers.   James 3:18 cf. Mt. 5:9

Blessed are the pure in heart.    James 4:8 cf. Mt. 5:8

God exalts the humble.    James 4:10 cf. Mt. 23:12/Lk. 14:11; 18:14

Refusal to judge others.    James 4:11-12 cf. Mt. 7:1-5/Lk. 6:37-38, 41-42

Rich must weep and mourn.    James 5:1 cf. Lk. 6:24-25

Against hoarding of riches.    James 5:2-3 cf. Mt. 6:19-21/Lk. 12:33-34

Dangers of riches.    James 5:4-6 cf. Mt. 6:24-25/Lk. 16:13

Coming of the Lord who is at the door.    James 5:8-9 cf. Mt. 24:33

Patience of the prophets in suffering.    James 5:10 cf. Mt. 5:12/Lk. 6:23

Avoid taking oaths.    James 5:12 cf. Mt. 5:33-37

Restoring a straying brother or sister.    James 5:19-20 cf. Mt. 18:15/Lk. 17:3