SUMMARY
The wealth of the rich will not shield them from the judgment of God that is near at hand. God hears the cries of those defrauded and will act on their behalf.
ANALYSIS
After exhorting his readers to humble themselves, James offers three examples of behavior that is the opposite of humble. First is the arrogance of judging others (James 4:11-12). Next comes the arrogance of planning as if one were in control of the future (James 4:13-17). Finally, there is the arrogance of amassing wealth. With its condemnation of such action and its message that the tables will soon be turned, James 5:1-6 shares the perspective of JesusJesus is the Messiah whose life, death, and resurrection are God's saving act for humanity. in the Sermon on the Plain, “Woe to you who are rich for you have received your consolation…” (see LukeThe "beloved physician" and companion of Paul. 6:24-25). James condemns the practice of looking to “gold and silver” for lasting treasure. In even stronger terms, he condemns the practice of cheating one’s workers to enrich oneself.
Although modern English translations of verse 6 render the last clause as a statement (“who does not resist you”), it could be read as a question: “Does he [God] not resist you?” If this is the sentiment, the verse builds on the character of God sketched throughout the letter, and it serves as a warning that a righteousA righteous person is one who is ethical and faithful to God's covenant. Righteousness in the Old Testament is an attitude of God; in the New Testament it is a gift of God through grace. In the New Testament righteousness is a relationship with God... God will indeed oppose those whose envy and avarice do harm to others.
