The author of the Epistle of James, a letter distinguished for its passionate commitment to Jewish Christianity, has been dubbed ' the Amos of the new covenant'. As a guide to Christian behavior, the letters deals with themes of universal importance, among which are the nature of God and man; the evils of lust and pride, which menace the Christian; the virtues of faith and pope, which sustain the believer; and the fruits of faith and love. James compares the person whose mind is divided on life's issues to the waves of the sea, agitated by every fleeting gust of wind. His most rigorous rebuke is reserved for those who allow themselves to be possessed by the lure of riches.