Perspective of Rich and Poor

So, in the final analysis, James calls us, both rich and poor, to consider our station w/ an eternal perspective. The poor man rejoices jubilantly knowing his future hope. The rich man rejoices that God has shown him the truth and reordered his priorities.

I. The Optimistic Hope of Poor Brothers.

A. He has been counted worthy of this trial and its fruit. – from passages like Job 1–2, to Phil. 1:29, and more, the Bible often considers trials as something God entrusts us with. – One encouraging aspect about this is that trials are not always discipline and often are given for the fruit they produce.

Trials sanctify us. James 1:2–4

Trials make us depend on God. 1 Cor 1:28–31

Trials give a testimony. Ps. 73:25–26

Trials are an opportunity for reward. 1 Pet 1:6–7

B. He sees this circumstance as God sees it. – Jesus taught that the last will be first in the kingdom in Mt. 20:16. The poor man who believes this not only can rejoice b/c it’s true but b/c God has given him wisdom to evaluate his condition

to see it as God does.

C. He is looking to the future hope.

II. The Opened Eyes of the Rich Brother.

A. He’s been shown the trap of wealth – 1 Tim 6:9–10 B. He’s been shown the futility of wealth – Luke 12:15–21 C. He’s found true hope in Christ – Mt. 13:44–46, Phil. 3:4–11