24 March 2013
Steve Grant
Series on The Epistle of James
James 5:1-11
THE USE AND ABUSE OF WEALTH
Verses 1-6 are a scathing denunciation of non-Christian, rich oppressors who had reduced the people to miserable poverty. Life was hard. The focus, in these verses, is on those who gain their wealth in an ungodly manner, make it the centre of their lives, and fail to use it to benefit others.
And to these people James says that they will be “weeping and wailing”.
So what is James’ comfort to those undergoing hardships at the hand of the rich? Verse 7 holds the key – Therefore be patient, brethren. Why should they be patient?
Because the Lord is coming. Which, of course, should be a great and inspiring comfort to all of us.