06.08.2025 AM | James 5:1-6

MESSAGE | Dr. Brian Payne (Pastor)

"The Danger of Not Being Rich Towards God"

James 5:1-6

1 | Coming Misery Because Their Riches Were Selfishly Hoarded (v. 1-3)

2 | Coming Misery Because Their Riches Were Unjustly Gained (v. 4)

3 | Coming Misery Because Their Riches Were Lovelessly Wasted (v. 5) 

4 | Coming Misery Because Their Riches Were Violently Acquired (v. 6)

 

Concluding Takeaways: 

(1) The Bible views wealth ambiguously

(2) Since God owns everything (Ps 24:1), we serve as stewards of the parts of creation he has placed under our authority 

(3) Poor stewardship is ultimately a sinner's problem with God. Matthew 25:14 You are a hard man.

(4) Its easy to think this text doesn’t apply to many of us.

(5) Neither wealth nor poverty is necessarily an indicator of personal righteousness. 

(6) Scripture says poverty with godliness is preferred to mere material wealth.

(7) There are warnings in Scripture but no condemnation of riches.

(8) We should help the poor.

(9) The Bible does not encourage any able-bodied person to continually live off donations of others. 

(10) God promises numerous blessings to those who steward their resources:

        (a) God is pleased.

        (b) Our giving advances the work of the kingdom of God.

        (c) There is Heavenly Reward.