Scripture: James 5:7-12
Background: Potentially written between 46-48 AD. James addresses a lot of the same themes as the apostle Peter, his contemporary. One of the biggest differences is that the reader will notice the book of James can seemingly function as the “Proverbs” of the New Testament. With plenty of short quips of lifestyle change the book is sometimes difficult to follow but also has an amazing amount of practicality that spans well beyond the original desired audience. Many scholars believe the heart of James’ message is to keep the worldliness of the church out of the church in whatever form it may take.
Lesson: This passage resolves the problem addressed in James 5:1-6. In order to fully understand the resolution in James 5:7-12, we need to remember the prophetic tone that James took with his audience in the previous passage. As he declares a breaking of the royal law and coming judgment, there is yet an unspoken and pronounced understanding of hope that leads into this next passage. It is as if he is saying, “In light of all this…,” followers of Christ are to be patient for the coming of the Lord and let him handle those who live in unrighteousness. This is a powerful statement because the tendency is to await the return of Jesus impatiently, which would lead to grumbling and anxious or even a bitter spirit until His return.
Finally, James draws on familiar stories to emphasize his point of being patient and the eventual reward that comes with that patience. The prophets who were persecuted are considered righteous. Even the reference to Job would remind the audience of the trials and triumph in his life that all pointed to the glory of the Lord. Scripture clearly speaks of persecution that falls on followers of God, and James affirms that reality and encourages Christ followers to stay the course and rejoice in their trials because the Lord is coming soon. He then exhorts believers not to swear or make oaths but to be trustworthy in their words. This reminder is also in light of the coming judgment, so that Christ will find us to be people of integrity.
Main Point/Takeaway: Scripture clearly speaks of persecution that falls on followers of God. Affirming that reality, James encourages Christ followers to stay the course and rejoice in their trials because the Lord is coming soon.
Questions: (These questions are suggestions designed to spur discussion. Feel free to ask others.)
1: How does James 5:7-11 connect to the previous passage (James 5:1-6)?
1a: Do you think these passages conflict in any way?
2: Why would James use a farmer as his picture of patience?
2a: Thinking about farmers, what sets them apart or makes them different?
2b: Is James saying that we should be exactly like farmers?
3: Verse 8 says that the coming of the Lord is at hand. What does that mean?
3a: Why does the coming of the Lord matter?
3b: What does Jesus’ return have to do with patience?
4: Read James 5:10-11.
4a: Why do you think James would emphasize the way prophets and other followers of God are treated?
4b: What encouragement is there for us?
5: Read James 5:12. Why should the believer avoid swearing oaths?
Conclusion: As we near the end of James, we realize that James has essentially brought us full circle to his opening statement on choosing joy in the midst of trials, while simultaneously adding another reason for doing so. Initially we consider it joy because it tests and strengthens our faith, but now we see that it also puts Christ followers into a similar category as the prophets who are now revered and on a Job-like level of celebration.