Bible Question:
Dear Tim, I think I understand what you are saying about vs 9-11, that Jesus puts all BELIEVERS, the rich and poor alike on equal footing so to speak because of their positions in Jesus. So don't trust in your social position or wealth. But I still don’t get what these verses are saying. Vs 9 - Is the high position of the poor brother his position in Christ? Vs 10 - Is the rich man saved? If so, is his low position the fact that he is not saved? Also it seems to be saying that HE, himself, will pass away not his stuff. I noticed that the NIV translates verse 10 very differently from the NASB. The NASB translates the verb as “Let” rather than “should”. NIV “But the one who is rich SHOULD take pride in his low position, because HE will pass away like a wild flower.” NASB “and LET the rich man glory in his humiliation, because like the flowering grass HE will pass away.” Does the translation make a difference in how we should understand this verse? Also, I'm not sure I get what you mean by a "Symbol of victory". Crowns are rewards for our service to Jesus, right? Thanks so much for taking the time to answer my questions. Blessings, Pam |
Bible Answer: Pam I see my brother in Christ Tim has answered your questions up to this point. Let me answer this one by using the NLT, I believe it makes this passage very clear. James 1:9-12 Christians who are poor should be glad, for God has honored them. [10] And those who are rich should be glad, for God has humbled them. They will fade away like a flower in the field. [11] The hot sun rises and dries up the grass; the flower withers, and its beauty fades away. So also, wealthy people will fade away with all of their achievements. [12] God blesses the people who patiently endure testing. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. Remember all teaching in the Bible repeatedly teaches that this world and all it riches are passing away. When a rich man goes to his grave he is as poor as the poor man and the poor man as rich as the rich man. We become physically equal, exalted or humbled, upon death. The only true thing that matters is our spiritual wealth which comes from enduring or “keep on keeping on.” EdB |