Verse 1
1. The introduction of the problem 5:1
Again James confronted his readers as a prophet (cf. James 4:13). Rich people are usually happy that they have wealth. However, James challenged his rich readers to weep and howl in anguish, not repentance. The Bible nowhere condemns the rich for being rich. Money is not evil (cf. 1 Timothy 6:10). Nevertheless God’s Word consistently warns the rich of the temptations that financial abundance brings with it. These temptations include a false sense of security, a desire to control others, and personal pride. The rich should not rejoice too much. Material misery may be just around the corner (cf. James 1:10-11).
"The persons here addressed are not the same as those addressed in iv. 13. It is no longer the careless worldliness of the bustling trader which is condemned, but the more deadly worldliness of the unjust capitalist or landlord." [Note: Mayor, p. 153.]
Probably James had in mind the rich as a class, not exclusively wealthy believers or wealthy unbelievers.
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