James 5:1-11
Do not grumble against one another, brothers, so that you may not be judged… (v. 9) The word “grumble” is also translated “complain” in the NASB and the NKJV. I had never noticed this before, that our grumbling/complaining against one another will be held against us, will be judged. I think James is speaking specifically about grumbling/complaining “within the body” – wherein lies that judgment. So does that free us up to grumble and complain “outside the body”? No judgment there…? Maybe, maybe not… But what gain is there for us to grumble and complain about anything, inside or outside “the body”? James suggests patience instead of grumbling and complaining. In fact, he mentions patience in three verses – vv. 7, 8, 10. I think he is trying to make a point!
James distinguishes between patience and endurance (v. 11). Yes, there is a difference! My Study Bible makes the point that Job endured, but he was certainly not patient! Paul lists patience as a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22), so we have it as a praiseworthy virtue. But endurance (also translated perseverance and steadfastness) is also highly regarded. One source I found online lists ten occurrences in the Epistles where the writer encourages endurance (https://walkinlove.com/blogs/walk-in-love/10-bible-verses-about-endurance). In fact, you may recall that James begins this Epistle with a call for endurance (James 1:2-4). So, it looks like we may get a pass if we are a bit impatient – so long as we endure those difficulties set before us. Just kidding. Patience is a fruit of the Spirit. Seek it.
Slava Bohu!
I didn’t realize the difference between patience and endurance. Thanks, Fred. There is work to be done in faith for the kingdom, while we endure and wait patiently. The farmer doesn’t just wait for the crops to grow, he weeds and waters, etc.
I wondered who is meant by the righteous one in v. 6. My study guide suggests a defenseless person, who is oppressed by the rich? But is this any faithful person who is persecuted, or something else?