Greed and Self-Indulgence (1-3, 5): These are “the last days” and Jesus is coming soon.[1] This means we live with an eager anticipation of His return. This also means that those whom God has blessed materially exercise sound stewardship. They are to utilize what God has entrusted not only for self-care, but for good works, for mercy, and for the advancement of the gospel.[2] The Lord’s imminent return is to radically steer our financial habits toward end times spending (1 Cor. 7:30-31). But some are greedy and self-indulgent, and James calls them to mourn the coming judgment of God. Our culture may deem such vices as acceptable, these are sins of first order in the sight of God.[3] God richly provides for us so that we will bless others[4] and advance His will.[5]
Delinquency and Oppression (4, 6): Jesus’ return also means a day of reckoning.[6] Among godless men, wealth means power and power can lead to corruption, but it is not to be among rich believers. They are to care for their employees[7] and remunerate them. Believers take care of their workers, not abuse them. Also, economic power must never be used to sway the courts. With great power comes great responsibility, and money must never be used to pervert justice.[8] God sees, and “the Judge is standing right at the door” (5:9).
[1] Cf. 5:8; John 14:3; Rom. 13:11; Phil. 4:5; 1 Pet. 4:7; Heb. 10:37; 1 John 2:18; Rev. 22:20.
[2] We are to pursue good works (Tit. 2:7, 14; 3:1, 8, 14), generosity toward those in need (Luke 12:34; 1 Tim. 6:18), and the advancement of the gospel (Luke 16:9; Rom. 15:22-24; 16:1-2; Phil. 1:5; 4:15-16).
[3] James points out of four vices: greed (5:2-3), delinquency (5:4), self-indulgence (5:5), and oppression (5:6).
[4] God blesses us to bless others: Psalm 67:1-2, 7; Acts 2:45; 4:34-35; Rom. 12:8; 2 Cor. 8:13-14; 9:8-12.
[5] We use our wealth to please the Lord and to carry out His will: Matt. 6:19-21, 24; Luke 12:21; John 12:7-8.
[6] Jesus comes back to render judgment. 5:9; Matt. 16:27; Rom. 2:6, 16; 2 Pet. 3:10-11; 1 John 2:28; Rev. 2:23.
[7] Mowers of the fields in 5:4a are parallel to the harvesters in 5:4b. These are employees of the landowners.
[8] Cf. Lev. 19:15; Deut. 27:19; Psalm 82:3; Prov. 29:7; 31:8-9; Jere. 22:3; Zech. 7:9-10; Mal. 3:5; Matt. 23:23.