Dublin, OH
Commentaries and Other Bible Study Helps - Prayer Tents - Prayer Tents
4:13-5:12 The Sins of the Wealthy. James condemns the sins of the wealthy (arrogant presumption, 4:13-17; and robbing the poor, 5:1-6), then issues a call for patience in suffering (5:7-11).
4:13-17 Boasting about Tomorrow. James addresses merchants, showing that the sovereignty of God precludes presumption and arrogance in making one's plans.
4:13 trade and make a profit. On the surface this sounds like good business sense, but it masks a secular worldview that ignores God. These people are probably Christians belonging to the wealthy merchant class, whereas the rich people mentioned in 5:1-6 are probably not believers (cf. 2:6-7).
4:14 you. These business people think they control events but fail to recognize God's providential control and the temporary nature of life, which is like a mist that can fade away at any moment. Planning and investing are not wrong, but arrogant self-confidence and boasting are.
4:15 The key to vv. 13-17 is if the Lord wills, with "Lord" referring to Yahweh as the Creator who sustains the universe and whose will controls all that happens. Every business decision must be based on submission to God's will.
4:17 Fails to do it describes what are commonly called "sins of omission." It is not only what people do that matters; the good that they fail to do is equally important to God.
