The Book of James

We know from other writings at the time that there had been a famine in the region and many people had become poor because of it. This is a purely practical teaching with direct spiritual implications. James’ audience could see the evidence of the wisdom contained in his teaching by observing the circumstances surrounding them. He was a master at drawing from real life experiences in order to create an impacting spiritual truth.

And so it stands that we can learn the same lessons as the 12 tribes. It does not matter our status in life as to how we relate to God. Poverty and riches do not hinder the depth of relationship that we can experience with Him. Nothing can separate us from the love of God.

Though his physical riches may be little, the believer can rest assured of his inheritance and exaltation in heaven. We are ‘rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom’ (see 2:5).

James sets the tone here for later in his letter where he moves into the issue of respecting persons. Both rich and poor need to come to God in the same way – through the narrow door of Christ.

1:10. but the rich in his humiliation, because as a flower of the field he will pass away. – This verse is a continuation of the previous and points out the loss that will be suffered by the rich. Treasure rusts and fades away. As a flower quickly fades after its season so too will the rich lose all they have. Their material possessions will not help on the day of judgement. This is not to say that gaining wealth and security financially is improper. Solomon gave counsel to his readers to store up an inheritance for their children (Pro 13:22).

James continually writes about having a proper perspective on the circumstances of life. He is urging for a new point of view to be obtained. The kingdom of Christ is not about gain so much as it is about servitude. The Christian needs to look with a proper perspective at wealth and poverty, and trials and temptations.