What We Glory In | Sermon 02/20/2022

James 1:9-12

James seeks to encourage these scattered believers as he reminds those who have lost much and are facing poverty that they are to boast in their high status in Christ. They may have lost earthly possessions but gained a heavenly inheritance that is infinitely beyond what the world can offer.

The rich man is also to boast. He is not to boast in his riches but in the humiliation of knowing none of what he has accrued will last, for one day he will pass from this life. The humbled will be exalted and the exalted shall be humbled.

The rich brother is exhorted not to put his trust and faith in his riches. The poor brother is reminded money and status will not earn him a heavenly high status. The scorching wind of trials and the withering away affects us all.

James gives a beatitude to remind the readers that it doesn’t matter whether you are rich or poor, we are all poor in spirit and need Christ to endure to the end. And the kind of man who loves God with all his heart, soul, mind, and strength will be given the crown of life.