Pastor Larry G. Stephens continues a sermon series through The Letter of James:

James 5:1-6 “Seeking Wisdom in Contentment” August 16, 2026

I. The Riches of This World Will One Day Fade Away II. True Satisfaction in Christ Yields Worshipful Stewardship

These verses will catalog the sins against those who have put their faith in their possessions. These accusations also mirror Chapter 2 on the sin of partiality. James uses the illustration of those who abuse their wealth and the poor as an example of how not to live. James is hoping that his words will instill a sense of corrigibility in his readers and worshipers, to learn from mistakes, reform, and make changes to improve. According to The Gospel Coalition, the church's greatest need today is an awareness of the Holiness of God. James directs readers and worshipers to see how those abused by the wealthy are calling out for justice. Much like what we see when Cain slew Abel, and how his blood cried out to the Lord for justice, now the wrong, harmful abuse is calling out to God.

How do we learn from the mistakes of others or even some wrong directions we have taken in life?

Why don’t we lay up treasures for the last days?

1. It contradicts the biblical intent for church finances. 2. It hinders helping those in need (physical and spiritual) 3. It can lead us to rely more on money rather than on God. 4. It contradicts stewardship principles