The Book of James was written around 49 AD by James, a leader in the very first Christian church, the Church of Jerusalem.
Members of the Jerusalem church had been removed from the city and spread out to other Roman provinces because of persecution. The letter aims to encourage them during these difficult times. James explains to them that their faith will change not only their conduct but also their character. He gives his readers several tests against which they can measure their faith in Christ. If a Christian fails these tests then their faith is dead.
James 1:12-15
"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: but every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death"