Job and the Prophets Are Examples - 06/02/2024

As James continues his discussion of practicing patience, he states that Christians should not complain “against one another,” giving as examples Job and the prophets. He reminds us that we see in the prophets examples of “suffering and patience” and in Job how to “endure” to the end. God demonstrated His compassion and mercy with both (James 5:9-11).

By using Job and the prophets as examples, James is explaining that the Old Testament illustrates principles by which Christians are to live. It shows us the lives of “real people” who were powerful illustrations of believers in God.

In order to fully appreciate the reference by James to these individuals, we must be acquainted with the Old Testament Scriptures. We should be encouraged to not only read the Old Testament to see these great examples, but also study it to understand their struggles.

Included in this section of James is a reference possibly to the complaining the Israelites did while they were wandering in the wilderness for forty years. A study of the writings of Exodus and Numbers would be beneficial in understanding what is meant by the word “complain” in this passage.

When James mentions the idea of judging, he is probably speaking of trivial matters. This type of complaining is what generates strife and conflict between individuals. It is not good for a group of Christians in a local church setting for sure. The group is not edified, nor built up, when this type of behavior is active and tolerated.

However, there must be a sense in which we are to judge if we are going to obey the instructions of James to imitate the example he mentions. James is saying these people were considered “blessed” because they endured.

The focus of the prophets was to encourage the citizens of Israel and Judah to be followers of God. These prophets were not treated kindly or fairly because of their message. They were often persecuted because they were delivering God’s message.

Jeremiah is an outstanding example to consider. He preached for over 40 years in an effort to get the nation of Judah to repent so they would not be taken into Babylonian captivity. As we read the Old Testament book of Jeremiah, we should be impressed with not only Jeremiah’s struggles and frustrations, but also his determination to never quit serving God.

Job and the Prophets provide a great example of being patient and waiting for the Lord to judge. When we complain among ourselves, we do not encourage others to persevere until the end. Remembering that the Lord is coming one day should be a constant motivator to be living God’s way. - cgm

Scriptural quotations from the NASB1995.