Come now, you rich, weep and howl for the miseries that are coming
upon you. [2] Your riches have rotted and your garments are moth-eaten. [3]
Your gold and silver have corroded, and their corrosion will be evidence
against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have laid up treasure in the
last days. [4] Behold, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which
you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the
harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts. [5] You have lived on
the earth in luxury and in self-indulgence. You have fattened your hearts in a
day of slaughter. [6] You have condemned; you have murdered the righteous
person. He does not resist you.
Questions for Reflection
1. How much does it take to be considered rich in your community?
2. Whom did James address in this passage? Why? (5:1)
3. What warning did James give to rich people? (5:1-3)
4. What misfortune lies ahead for the wealthy? (5:1-3)
5. Who should “weep and wail”? Why? (5:1-6)
6. How do money and riches affect our relationship with God?
7. What does God think about people who are rich?
8. What problems are solved by being rich?
9. What problems are not solved by being rich?
10. How does God want us to handle money?
