James 5:7
Verse
Context
Patience in Suffering
6You have condemned and murdered the righteous, who did not resist you. 7Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer awaits the precious fruit of the soil—how patient he is for the fall and spring rains.8You, too, be patient and strengthen your hearts, because the Lord’s coming is near.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Be patient, therefore - Because God is coming to execute judgment on this wicked people, therefore be patient till he comes. He seems here to refer to the coming of the Lord to execute judgment on the Jewish nation, which shortly afterwards took place. The husbandman waiteth - The seed of your deliverance is already sown, and by and by the harvest of your salvation will take place. God's counsels will ripen in due time. The early and latter rain - The rain of seed time; and the rain of ripening before harvest: the first fell in Judea, about the beginning of November, after the seed was sown; and the second towards the end of April, when the ears were filling, and this prepared for a full harvest. Without these two rains, the earth would have been unfruitful. These God had promised: I will give you the rain of your land in his due season, the first rain and the latter rain, that thou mayest gather in thy corn, and thy wine, and thy oil, Deu 11:14. But for these they were not only to wait patiently, but also to pray, Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so shall the Lord make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field; Zac 10:1.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Be patient therefore--as judgment is so near (Jam 5:1, Jam 5:3), ye may well afford to be "patient" after the example of the unresisting Just one (Jam 5:6). brethren--contrasted with the "rich" oppressors, Jam 5:1-6. unto the coming of the Lord--Christ, when the trial of your patience shall cease. husbandman waiteth for--that is, patiently bears toils and delays through hope of the harvest at last. Its "preciousness" (compare Psa 126:6, "precious seed") will more than compensate for all the past. Compare the same image, Gal 6:3, Gal 6:9. hath long patience for it--"over it," in respect to it. until he receive--"until it receive" [ALFORD]. Even if English Version be retained, the receiving of the early and latter rains is not to be understood as the object of his hope, but the harvest for which those rains are the necessary preliminary. The early rain fell at sowing time, about November or December; the latter rain, about March or April, to mature the grain for harvest. The latter rain that shall precede the coming spiritual harvest, will probably be another Pentecost-like effusion of the Holy Ghost.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Be patient therefore, brethren,.... The apostle here addresses himself to the poor who were oppressed by the rich men, and these he calls "brethren" of whom he was not ashamed; when he does not bestow this title upon the rich, though professors of the same religion: these poor brethren he advises to be patient under their sufferings, to bear them with patience, unto the coming of the Lord; not to destroy Jerusalem, but either at death, or at the last, judgment; when he will take vengeance on their oppressors, and deliver them from all their troubles, and put them into the possession of that kingdom, and glory, to which they are called; wherefore, in the mean while, he would have them be quiet and easy, not to murmur against God, nor seek to take vengeance on men, but leave it to God, to whom it belongs, who will judge his people: behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth; ripe fruit, which arises from the seed he sows in the earth; and which may be called "precious", because useful both to man and beast; see Deu 33:14 and between this, and the sowing of the seed, is a considerable time, during which the husbandman waits; and this may be an instruction in the present case: and hath patience for it until he receive the early and latter rain; the Jews had seldom rains any more than twice a year; the early, or former rain, was shortly after the feast of tabernacles (u), in the month Marchesvan, or October, when the seed was sown in the earth; and if it did not rain, they prayed for it, on the third or seventh day of the month (w); and the latter rain was in Nisan, or March (x), just before harvest; and to this distinction the passage refers. (u) Bartenora in Misn. Taanith, c. 1. sect. 2. (w) T. Bab. Taanith, fol. 4. 2. & 6. 1. & 10. 1. & Bava Metzia, fol. 28. 1. Maimon. Tephilla, c. 2. sect. 16. (x) Targum, Jarchi, Kimchi, & Miclol Jophi in Joel ii. 23. Vajikra Rabba, sect. 35. fol. 175. 3.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:7-8 be patient: This is the ultimate resolution for the poor in their economic pressures and for the unjust treatment by the wicked rich (5:1-6; see 2:6-7). Even though the poor have been marginalized and oppressed, they must not give up or strike out at their oppressors. At the Lord’s return, the faithful will receive their final reward (Isa 40:10; Luke 6:20-35; 1 Cor 15:23; 1 Pet 1:17; 5:4; Rev 22:12).
James 5:7
Patience in Suffering
6You have condemned and murdered the righteous, who did not resist you. 7Be patient, then, brothers, until the Lord’s coming. See how the farmer awaits the precious fruit of the soil—how patient he is for the fall and spring rains.8You, too, be patient and strengthen your hearts, because the Lord’s coming is near.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Early and Latter Rain
By B.H. Clendennen4.7K49:00Spiritual AwakeningECC 1:9JOL 2:23ACT 2:19JAS 5:7REV 3:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of discernment and not being deceived by glamorous image advertising. He believes that we are living in a time where image advertising is prevalent and can easily distract us from the truth. The preacher also discusses the significance of biblical prophecies and how they point to the coming of the Lord and the final move of God. He urges the audience to focus on the message of God rather than the messenger, emphasizing that Jesus may not be appealing to this generation but his message is crucial for salvation.
Testimony - Part 10
By Jackie Pullinger3.9K10:29TestimonyMAT 6:33MRK 8:35LUK 17:7HEB 12:2JAS 5:1JAS 5:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need for action and accountability in our Christian faith. He highlights how in the West, we have an abundance of teaching and resources, but we have substituted teaching for true Christianity. The speaker references a scripture about servants and their duty, emphasizing that doing Christianity should not be seen as something special or extraordinary, but rather as our responsibility. He also draws attention to the dangers of hoarding wealth and living in luxury, citing a passage from James chapter 5. The speaker concludes by urging listeners to share the message of salvation with others and to be willing to give up everything for Christ.
(Through the Bible) Revelation 10-12
By Chuck Smith2.3K1:21:23Through The BibleACT 14:192CO 12:7JAS 5:72PE 3:3REV 1:16REV 5:1REV 10:5REV 10:8REV 11:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes how nature reveals the glory of God and serves as a means for humans to come to know Him. He distinguishes between rational and irrational individuals, stating that rational people recognize God as the creator of nature, while irrational people worship nature itself. The preacher then shifts to discussing the book of Revelation, specifically focusing on the description of Jesus in chapter one. He mentions the scroll with seven seals, which represents the title deed to the earth and reveals God's intended purpose for the earth and humanity. The sermon concludes by mentioning the upcoming seven-year period for Israel and the sending of two witnesses, including Elijah, as prophesied in the book of Malachi.
Persevering to Inheriting the Promise
By Alan Martin1.7K00:00Promises Of GodHEB 6:11JAS 5:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of crying out to God when facing temptation and suffering. He highlights that God is ever-present and ready to come to our aid when we call upon Him. The preacher also emphasizes that the path to the kingdom of God is narrow and difficult, requiring perseverance and faith. He uses the example of Abraham, who believed in God's promise despite the seemingly impossible circumstances of his old age and his wife's barrenness. The preacher urges believers to stand firm in their faith and not falter in times of struggle, reminding them of the consequences of lacking strength and faith.
(Proverbs) ch.28:19 - 29:17
By Zac Poonen1.4K1:00:45PRO 28:19MIC 3:52TI 2:6JAS 2:9JAS 3:17JAS 5:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of discipline in our daily lives, even in our interactions with others. He highlights Proverbs 28:20, which warns against the pursuit of wealth and the potential punishment it brings. The blessings mentioned in the verse are seen as earthly provisions that God provides when we prioritize His kingdom. However, when these blessings exceed our needs, they can become a curse. The speaker also discusses the contrast between a hard-working farmer who has plenty to eat and those who waste their time and end up in poverty. This concept is applied spiritually, urging believers to diligently work on their own salvation. The pursuit of wealth beyond one's needs is seen as a temptation and trap set by the devil, leading to foolish and harmful desires that can ruin and destroy individuals and their families. The speaker encourages listeners to learn from the discipline of great men of God who have effectively managed their time and avoided wasting it on useless things.
We Will Reap What We Sow
By Brian Long1.3K49:30SowingPRO 27:6MAT 28:19GAL 6:7GAL 6:9JAS 5:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a disciplined life in order to stand before God without regret. He highlights the dangers of laziness and warns against neglecting prayer, fasting, preaching, and witnessing. The preacher also emphasizes the need for discipline in raising children. He uses the example of a farmer patiently waiting for the harvest as a metaphor for believers patiently waiting for the return of Jesus Christ. The sermon concludes with a reminder to endure suffering and to take the prophets and the example of Job as models of perseverance.
Be Patient, the Lord Is Coming - Part 2
By Alistair Begg1.3K41:14Lord's ComingACT 17:31ROM 2:4JAS 5:7JAS 5:91PE 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not living separated from God in eternity. He highlights God's compassion and mercy towards humanity, urging believers to show the same kindness, tolerance, and patience towards others. The preacher also discusses the return of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the unpredictability of the day and the need to focus on its centrality and reality. He encourages teaching children songs that convey important lessons and provides examples from the Bible, such as the farmer, to illustrate the importance of patience and hard work.
Last Words of David
By Charles Alexander1.2K39:18DavidGEN 8:222SA 23:4PSA 89:34MAT 6:33JHN 4:35GAL 6:7JAS 5:7In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the last words of David as recorded in the book of Samuel. He connects these words to the Harvest Festival, emphasizing the importance of renewal and growth in the souls of men. The preacher highlights the divine plan and covenant that God has made with humanity, ensuring that every season will yield a bountiful harvest. The significance of a person's last words is also discussed, as they hold weight and importance even in ordinary statements.
Victory Through Patience
By Billy Strachan1.1K1:08:49PatienceJAS 5:7In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man who is bedridden and finds hope in his faith. Despite his physical limitations, the man is filled with joy and gratitude. The speaker encourages the audience to be normal and not judge others based on their appearance. He emphasizes the importance of enduring hardships and finding strength in the Bible. The sermon concludes with a call to action, urging the audience to reach out to others and share the message of Jesus.
The Way Is Prepared
By Basilea Schlink64904:35Radio ShowJAS 5:7JAS 5:9In this sermon, Basilia Schlenk discusses the promise of God's presence and deliverance in times of distress and darkness. She refers to James 5:7, where the apostle encourages patience until the coming of the Lord. Schlenk emphasizes that God always has an exit prepared for every need, and it is up to us to believe in His love and patiently endure. She also highlights the importance of not grumbling against one another, as it hinders our relationship with Jesus. The sermon concludes with the reminder that Jesus will return triumphantly, bringing light and joy to those who eagerly await Him.
The Latter Rain
By Robert B. Thompson5931:18:01MIC 5:2MAT 6:33ROM 8:29JAS 5:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of a great white throne and the multitude of people it will include. He emphasizes the need for believers to have a broader understanding of the challenges they will face. The preacher shares a disturbing incident involving a six-year-old boy who harmed a baby out of revenge, highlighting the darkness and brokenness of humanity. He emphasizes the importance of taking God seriously and not just seeking His blessings, but also acknowledging His judgment. The preacher concludes by urging believers to bear true witness to others and represent God faithfully.
The Deep Dealings of God Pt 23 - Let Us Go on Unto Perfection - God's Love [1 Corinthians 13]
By Phil Beach Jr.401:02:57God's LovePerfectionSpiritual MaturityGEN 3:8MAT 6:211CO 13:1HEB 6:1JAS 5:7Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of spiritual maturity and the transformative power of God's love as outlined in 1 Corinthians 13. He encourages believers to move beyond childish ways and to embrace a deeper relationship with God, which involves genuine communication and love for one another. The sermon highlights that true spiritual maturity is characterized by valuing what God values and being long-suffering towards others, reflecting the love of Christ. Beach Jr. warns against the distractions of modern life that hinder communication and urges the congregation to seek the eternal treasures of God's kingdom. Ultimately, he calls for a heart transformation that allows believers to forgive and love as Christ does.
Building the House of God - Strangers and Pilgrims Yearning for Immortality
By Phil Beach Jr.2751:49EternityJudgmentHolinessMAT 7:19ROM 8:182CO 5:1GAL 5:222TI 4:12TI 4:3HEB 12:1JAS 5:71PE 2:111JN 2:15Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the urgency of living with a holy fear of God, reminding believers that Christ will judge both the living and the dead. He calls for a deep introspection of our lives, urging us to produce good fruit that pleases God rather than being consumed by earthly desires. The sermon highlights the importance of groaning for immortality and the need for believers to be transformed by the Holy Spirit, living as pilgrims and strangers in this world. Beach warns against the dangers of complacency and the temptation to settle for a superficial faith, encouraging a passionate pursuit of God's highest calling. Ultimately, he stresses that true grace leads to a life of holiness and accountability before the divine judge.
Epistle 189
By George Fox0FaithfulnessUnity in ChristDEU 2:25JER 9:3ROM 1:16ROM 2:14ROM 14:132TI 1:10JAS 5:71JN 5:19REV 14:6REV 21:2George Fox encourages his friends in New England and Virginia to remain steadfast in the truth and power of God, urging them to spread the gospel and confound deceit. He emphasizes the importance of unity, love, and patience, reminding them to avoid judging one another and to dwell in God's power to overcome worldly adversities. Fox highlights the necessity of preaching the everlasting gospel to all nations, assuring them that through patience and perseverance, they will witness the triumph of truth over falsehood. He calls for a commitment to the seed of God, which will sustain them against the trials of life and the challenges posed by spiritual deception.
Speedily, Though Bearing Long
By Andrew Murray0Perseverance in PrayerFaith and PatienceLUK 18:1JAS 5:7Andrew Murray emphasizes the necessity of persevering prayer, illustrating that while God is eager to answer our prayers, His timing often requires patience and faith. He explains that the delay in answers is not due to God's unwillingness but rather His long-suffering nature, which allows for spiritual growth and readiness. Murray encourages believers to maintain a confident and persistent attitude in prayer, trusting that every prayer has an effect and contributes to the eventual answer. He draws parallels between the agricultural process and spiritual growth, highlighting that just as crops require time to mature, so do our prayers need time to bear fruit. Ultimately, he reassures that God will respond speedily to those who cry out to Him day and night.
He Is at the Door!
By Theodore Epp0AttitudeChrist's ReturnJAS 5:7Theodore Epp emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive attitude towards others, urging us not to grumble or complain, especially in light of Christ's imminent return. He reminds us that the Lord is ready to judge our hearts and actions, encouraging us to speak words that uplift rather than harm. Epp highlights that understanding the nearness of Christ's return can transform our perspectives, making us less critical and more compassionate. He reassures us that God will reward our faithfulness and endurance, even in the face of mistreatment. Ultimately, we are called to trust in God's justice and love as we navigate our relationships.
Day 44, James 5
By David Servant0JAS 5:7David Servant preaches on James' condemnation of the unrighteous rich who gained wealth through unjust means and failed to steward it according to God's will, living luxuriously on earth. He emphasizes the importance of laying up treasures in heaven and the hope of Jesus' return for deliverance. The sermon also touches on the power of faith in healing, attributing healing to prayer offered in faith, faith in God's will for healing, and the qualifications of faith and righteousness for healing.
The Process and the End
By John Henry Jowett0GEN 1:31PSA 30:5ISA 55:8ROM 8:28JAS 5:7John Henry Jowett emphasizes the importance of patience in trusting the Lord's mysterious ways to achieve His ends, even when the means seem contrary to the desired outcomes. Just like how a delicate porcelain is formed through a rough mortar, our afflictions and trials are shaping us for glory, leading us from discord to harmony, opposition to union, and adversities to peace. We must not mistake the process for the end result, as the Lord's ultimate goal is filled with compassion and tender mercy.
Mark 4:21-29. Jesus Encourages His Disciples to Communicate the Word.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0MAT 5:15MRK 4:22MRK 4:261CO 3:6GAL 6:9JAS 5:71PE 1:231JN 2:5REV 22:12Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the importance of sharing the light of God's truth with others, emphasizing the need to proclaim the secret communications of the Lord rather than concealing them. Jesus encourages his disciples to sow the seed of the word, reminding them that the growth and success of the seed ultimately depend on God. Ministers are urged to be patient in sowing the word, knowing that the harvest may not be immediate but will bring joy in due time. The process of spiritual growth is compared to the growth of a plant, with the assurance that those who sow the word will reap heavenly rewards.
Part 1. Many Sowers, One Seed
By H. Elvet Lewis0PSA 85:6ISA 44:3ZEC 10:1JHN 14:26JAS 5:7H. Elvet Lewis preaches about the profound mystery and overwhelming flood of the 1904 Welsh Revival, highlighting the transformation it brought to the nation, reshaping its history and renewing churches. The sermon explores the question of whether such seasons of refreshing are beyond the Church's control or predestined by God's sovereign will, emphasizing the importance of waiting, working, and walking with God to create a reservoir of spiritual influences for the Spirit to use at the right hour.
Season of Waiting
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 27:14ISA 40:31LAM 3:25MIC 7:7HAB 2:3ACT 7:30GAL 6:9HEB 6:15JAS 5:7Charles E. Cowman preaches about the importance of waiting on the Lord, drawing parallels from the story of the ancient knight who paused to have his horse re-shod before fleeing from his enemies, ultimately hastening his escape. He emphasizes that God often calls us to wait and fully recover ourselves before moving forward in our journey and work, highlighting that there is no time lost in these waiting hours. The sermon encourages patient, hopeful, and expectant waiting for God's guidance and timing, assuring that His purpose will be revealed in His perfect timing.
Delayed Blessings
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 27:14PSA 37:7ISA 30:18LAM 3:25HAB 2:3ROM 8:25HEB 10:36JAS 5:7Charles E. Cowman preaches about the importance of waiting for God's appointed time, emphasizing that delays are not denials and that God has a 'Delayed Blessings Department' where He keeps certain blessings until the right moment. He encourages believers to trust in God's timing, reminding them that the Lord watches over them in difficult times and will come to their aid gloriously. Cowman urges the congregation not to doubt God's love but to praise Him in advance for the deliverance that is on its way, assuring them that if God has helped them before, He will not fail them now.
God Is Waiting Upon Us
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 27:14PSA 37:7ISA 30:18HAB 2:3LUK 18:7ROM 8:25GAL 4:4JAS 5:7Charles E. Cowman preaches about the profound concept of God waiting on us, emphasizing that our waiting upon Him is met with His gracious waiting upon us, instilling confidence that our patience will not be in vain. He explains that God's timing is perfect, likening Him to a wise husbandman who waits for the fruit to ripen before harvesting, ensuring that we are spiritually ready to receive His blessings. Cowman encourages the congregation to embrace waiting in the sunshine of God's love and under the cloud of trials, as both are essential for spiritual growth and the manifestation of God's blessings.
When We Are Ready
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 27:14PSA 37:7ISA 30:18LAM 3:25HAB 2:3ROM 8:25GAL 6:9HEB 6:15JAS 5:7Charles E. Cowman preaches on the importance of waiting for God's timing, emphasizing that while we wait on God, He is also waiting for us to be ready. There is a misconception that fulfilling conditions will immediately lead to answered prayers, but God's timing and purposes work in conjunction with our obedience. Just like a seed planted in the ground, our petitions require unseen forces to bring about the true fruition of God's answers.
Wait for Light
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 18:28PSA 27:14PSA 130:6ISA 40:31LAM 3:25ROM 8:25GAL 5:22HEB 6:15JAS 5:7Mary Wilder Tileston, preaching on the importance of patience and waiting on the Lord, emphasizes the soul's calm endurance in seeking God's light before taking action. She highlights that trials of the mind can deepen more than physical pain, but those who trust in God's providence and patiently wait for His guidance will not be troubled. Tileston encourages believers to look to God in times of uncertainty, wait with patience, and trust that His light will eventually illuminate their path, guiding them in the right direction.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Be patient, therefore - Because God is coming to execute judgment on this wicked people, therefore be patient till he comes. He seems here to refer to the coming of the Lord to execute judgment on the Jewish nation, which shortly afterwards took place. The husbandman waiteth - The seed of your deliverance is already sown, and by and by the harvest of your salvation will take place. God's counsels will ripen in due time. The early and latter rain - The rain of seed time; and the rain of ripening before harvest: the first fell in Judea, about the beginning of November, after the seed was sown; and the second towards the end of April, when the ears were filling, and this prepared for a full harvest. Without these two rains, the earth would have been unfruitful. These God had promised: I will give you the rain of your land in his due season, the first rain and the latter rain, that thou mayest gather in thy corn, and thy wine, and thy oil, Deu 11:14. But for these they were not only to wait patiently, but also to pray, Ask ye of the Lord rain in the time of the latter rain; so shall the Lord make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field; Zac 10:1.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Be patient therefore--as judgment is so near (Jam 5:1, Jam 5:3), ye may well afford to be "patient" after the example of the unresisting Just one (Jam 5:6). brethren--contrasted with the "rich" oppressors, Jam 5:1-6. unto the coming of the Lord--Christ, when the trial of your patience shall cease. husbandman waiteth for--that is, patiently bears toils and delays through hope of the harvest at last. Its "preciousness" (compare Psa 126:6, "precious seed") will more than compensate for all the past. Compare the same image, Gal 6:3, Gal 6:9. hath long patience for it--"over it," in respect to it. until he receive--"until it receive" [ALFORD]. Even if English Version be retained, the receiving of the early and latter rains is not to be understood as the object of his hope, but the harvest for which those rains are the necessary preliminary. The early rain fell at sowing time, about November or December; the latter rain, about March or April, to mature the grain for harvest. The latter rain that shall precede the coming spiritual harvest, will probably be another Pentecost-like effusion of the Holy Ghost.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Be patient therefore, brethren,.... The apostle here addresses himself to the poor who were oppressed by the rich men, and these he calls "brethren" of whom he was not ashamed; when he does not bestow this title upon the rich, though professors of the same religion: these poor brethren he advises to be patient under their sufferings, to bear them with patience, unto the coming of the Lord; not to destroy Jerusalem, but either at death, or at the last, judgment; when he will take vengeance on their oppressors, and deliver them from all their troubles, and put them into the possession of that kingdom, and glory, to which they are called; wherefore, in the mean while, he would have them be quiet and easy, not to murmur against God, nor seek to take vengeance on men, but leave it to God, to whom it belongs, who will judge his people: behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth; ripe fruit, which arises from the seed he sows in the earth; and which may be called "precious", because useful both to man and beast; see Deu 33:14 and between this, and the sowing of the seed, is a considerable time, during which the husbandman waits; and this may be an instruction in the present case: and hath patience for it until he receive the early and latter rain; the Jews had seldom rains any more than twice a year; the early, or former rain, was shortly after the feast of tabernacles (u), in the month Marchesvan, or October, when the seed was sown in the earth; and if it did not rain, they prayed for it, on the third or seventh day of the month (w); and the latter rain was in Nisan, or March (x), just before harvest; and to this distinction the passage refers. (u) Bartenora in Misn. Taanith, c. 1. sect. 2. (w) T. Bab. Taanith, fol. 4. 2. & 6. 1. & 10. 1. & Bava Metzia, fol. 28. 1. Maimon. Tephilla, c. 2. sect. 16. (x) Targum, Jarchi, Kimchi, & Miclol Jophi in Joel ii. 23. Vajikra Rabba, sect. 35. fol. 175. 3.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:7-8 be patient: This is the ultimate resolution for the poor in their economic pressures and for the unjust treatment by the wicked rich (5:1-6; see 2:6-7). Even though the poor have been marginalized and oppressed, they must not give up or strike out at their oppressors. At the Lord’s return, the faithful will receive their final reward (Isa 40:10; Luke 6:20-35; 1 Cor 15:23; 1 Pet 1:17; 5:4; Rev 22:12).