James seems very random. I like random, but not in Scripture-writers.
Paul is not very random.
Verses 2-8 make sense together, so
they’re okay. You lack? Ask. Verses 9-11
are where James starts to get scary, because out of the blue we’re hating on
the rich man.
Wait for it….
I think there’s a connection.
On both sides of these verses (9-11),
James writes about success in suffering. Before
them, he says the purpose of suffering is to ultimately not lack any virtue;
but virtue (specifically wisdom) must be supplied by the giving God. After them, James looks at the man who
remains steadfast in suffering and earns the crown of life. And there’s a hint of suffering within verses
9-11: the sun rising with scorching heat.
So suffering is a thread.
What are poor people good at that rich
people aren’t? Depending. What does it
take to succeed in suffering? Dependence. In Pastor James’ example, I think the lowly
man understands his profound need, and thus is more likely to succeed in
suffering.
