A Commentary on the Epistle of James, Chapter Five

In chapter five of this epistle, James had concluded his writing to his Jewish, Christian brethren by encouraging them to not be troubled by their poverty or by their mistreatment by others. In particular, they had been hurt and victimized by wealthy landowners who had cheated them out of their wages and who had also had many of them executed. So James had written that they should be patient and trust in the Lord. They should be joyful and full of songs of praise for the Lord. They should live according to biblical standards. They should be soul-winners. They should also encourage one another and correct one another in love, as necessary.

He concluded this epistle by saying that the most important thing in this existence is to be saved and to be in a personal eternal relationship with the Lord Jesus. So it is very important for the saints of God to live in such a way that it will promote true biblical salvation among many people. Jesus offered Himself on the cross at Calvary so that not saved sinners can be reconciled to Him. So those individuals who are saved should have a strong desire to see other people get saved, too.

There is one note, however, to be made with respect to the organization of this text. Something that the reader of this text might find useful is boxes that show the different passages that are being referenced at the times and in the places where they are being referenced. That way, he or she will not have to jump all over the place or get into or out of the scriptures to locate a particular reference. Hopefully that inclusion will help the reader in trying to understand the various events and to also put them into their right context. So it is hoped that that will make this book easier to read and that the Lord will receive the praise, honor, and glory that He rightfully deserves.