Come Now You Rich

Introduction

This section offers the strongest condemnation of the letter.

The distinct language leaves us with some questions about who James is writing to at this point and how that fits into the rest of the letter.

Then, we need to ask how that applies to us today.

“The Rich” Condemned

This is a pronouncement of judgment on the rich (Jas. 5:1-7).

The distinction between “you rich” and “brothers” in the next paragraph.

In the previous section there is instruction and call to repentance, here there is only condemnation.

The judgment uses prophetic language (Isa. 13:6; 15:2-3; 65:14).

“The rich” have acted wickedly (Jas. 5:2-6)

Context tells us whether the rich are wicked or not.

Rich as a show of honor (Prov. 3:16; 10:4; 21:17; 22:4; 24:4).

The reality of riches (Prov. 10:15; 14:20; 18:23; 22:7; 30:8).

The danger of riches (Prov. 11:16, 28; 18:11; 22:16; 28:6, 11, 20).

Perhaps verse 17 ties the previous section to this one.

Comfort and Warning

There is a reality check on riches (cf. Matt. 6:19; Prov. 11:28).

There is inherent danger in riches (Deut. 6:10-12).

We are warned away from feeling so envious of the rich (cf. Psa. 73:18-20).

Those mistreated by the rich are comforted (cf. Rom. 12:19).

Conclusion

Anytime we hear God saying something about wealth, we need to listen up.

He is either giving you wisdom about how to get it and handle it, or He is warning you about the dangers of it. And we are saturated with wealth.

You will be judged for what you have done with whatever wealth the Lord has entrusted you with.

When you find yourself oppressed by the wealthy, your comfort is not in men, but in the Lord who will judge all things.