Study 13: James 5: 1-6: Trent Evans

The study of James 5:1-6 challenges believers to examine their hearts regarding wealth and possessions, emphasizing that the issue is not money itself but the love of it. James warns against hoarding wealth, oppressing others for financial gain, and placing trust in material riches rather than God. The passage urges self-reflection, calling believers to generosity, justice, and responsible stewardship. The study highlights that wealth should be a tool for God's purposes rather than an idol that corrupts the heart. Ultimately, the message calls for aligning financial decisions with faith, ensuring that possessions do not possess us.

Sermon Outline

1. Introduction – God Sees Everything (00:06 - 01:11)

• Key Thought: While our physical vision is limited, God sees perfectly and knows the condition of our hearts.

• Scripture: James 5:1-6 (Primary Text)

2. The Unavoidable Message of Scripture (01:54 - 02:56)

• Key Thought: Teaching through the Bible means addressing all topics, even the uncomfortable ones.

• Scripture: James 5:1-6 (Text must be engaged, not avoided.)

3. Wealth and the Heart (03:07 - 05:21)

• Key Thought: This passage is not about having money but about the love of money controlling the heart.

• Scripture: 1 Timothy 6:10 – "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil."

• Application: The danger of money is when it possesses us rather than serving God's purpose.

4. Who Are the “Rich”? (15:01 - 16:36)

• Key Thought: Many assume this passage applies to others, but by global standards, most of us are wealthy.

• Statistics:

  • A household earning $10,000/year is wealthier than 84% of the world.

  • A household earning $50,000/year is wealthier than 90% of the world.

5. The Trap of Materialism (16:38 - 19:25)

• Key Thought: Society fuels discontentment, constantly telling us we need more.

• Example: Online tracking, advertising, and consumerism encourage constant desire.

• Application: Recognizing how the world manipulates our desires helps break free from its grip.

6. Generosity as an Antidote (20:28 - 22:36)

• Key Thought: God blesses us not to induce guilt, but to be a blessing to others.

• Example: Experience in Honduras—seeing contentment in those with little.

• Scripture: 2 Corinthians 9:7 – "God loves a cheerful giver."

• Application: Gratitude leads to generosity, breaking the hold of materialism.

7. The Temporary Nature of Wealth (23:34 - 26:56)

• Key Thought: Hoarded wealth is ultimately meaningless.

• Scripture: Matthew 6:21 – "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

• Illustration: Wealth is like electricity—useful in its proper place, dangerous when uncontrolled.

8. The Social Cost of Greed (35:03 - 38:12)

• Key Thought: The pursuit of wealth at the expense of others leads to injustice.

• Scripture: Micah 6:8 – "Act justly, love mercy, walk humbly with your God."

• Application: Wealth should not come at the cost of others' well-being.

9. Breaking the Hold of Money (41:57 - 44:37)

• Key Thought: Regular giving helps break greed’s hold on the heart.

• Personal Example: Sponsoring children through Compassion International.

• Application: Intentional generosity keeps wealth from becoming an idol.

10. Closing Challenge – Choosing the Right Treasure (49:17 - 51:38)

• Key Thought: No one at the end of life regrets generosity.

• Scripture: 1 Timothy 6:17-19 – “Command those who are rich... to be generous and willing to share.”

• Application: Now is the time to choose generosity and live with an eternal perspective.

Scripture References

Word Study