This chapter presents an introduction to the letter of James. Included is an excursus on faith, works, and justification in James and Paul.

McCartney argues that James should be read on its own terms. It is not a “reaction” to Paul or a misunderstanding of Paul. He treats the apparent discrepancy between James’ emphasis on justification by works and Paul’s emphasis that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.

Chapter 1 wrestles with the question why there is suffering at all. It first reflects on what suffering is. Next it unfolds the origin of human suffering by expounding on Genesis 3 and throwing light on the different contexts in which suffering is experienced. The chapter ends with questions for further reflection.

This chapter is about the mystery of suffering. In the Introduction the problem is stated, but not answered.

The volume is a study of hermeneutics. In Chapter 1 the foundation is laid for a proper understanding of the task of interpretation of Scripture by spelling out the presuppositions of responsible interpretation.