James 5:4

Look, the wages you withheld from the workmen who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of Hosts.

Study Bible

Look
The Greek word here is "ἰδοὺ" (idou), which serves as an imperative to draw attention. It is a call to awareness, urging the reader to pay close attention to the injustice being highlighted. In the biblical context, this word often precedes a significant revelation or divine truth. It serves as a reminder that God sees all actions and that nothing escapes His notice.

the wages you withheld
The phrase refers to the Greek "ὁ μισθός" (ho misthos), meaning "the wages" or "reward," and "ἀπεστερημένος" (apestērēmenos), meaning "withheld" or "kept back." This highlights a moral and ethical violation against the laborers. In the historical context of James' audience, withholding wages was a severe injustice, as daily wages were crucial for survival. The withholding of wages is not just a financial issue but a moral one, reflecting a lack of integrity and compassion.

from the workmen who mowed your fields
The term "workmen" translates from the Greek "τῶν θερισάντων" (tōn therisantōn), meaning "those who reap" or "harvesters." These were laborers who depended on their daily earnings for sustenance. The imagery of "mowing fields" connects to the agrarian society of the time, where such labor was essential for the community's survival. This phrase underscores the vulnerability of the workers and the responsibility of the landowners to act justly.

are crying out against you
The Greek "κράζει" (krazei) means "cry out" or "call out." This is a powerful image of the injustice reaching a point where it demands divine attention. In the biblical narrative, the cries of the oppressed often reach God, prompting His intervention. This phrase serves as a warning that God is attentive to the plight of the oppressed and will act in justice.

and the cries of the harvesters
The repetition of "cries" emphasizes the intensity and urgency of the situation. The Greek "κραυγαὶ" (kraugai) refers to loud cries or shouts, indicating desperation. The harvesters, who are the backbone of the agricultural economy, are depicted as victims of exploitation. This highlights the biblical theme of God's concern for the marginalized and His call for justice.

have reached the ears of the Lord of Hosts
The phrase "Lord of Hosts" translates from the Greek "Κυρίου Σαβαώθ" (Kyriou Sabaōth), a title that emphasizes God's sovereignty and power. It is a reminder of God's ultimate authority over all earthly matters. The imagery of cries reaching God's ears suggests that He is not distant or indifferent but actively involved in the affairs of humanity. This serves as both a comfort to the oppressed and a warning to the oppressors that divine justice is inevitable.

Persons / Places / Events

1. James
The author of the epistle, traditionally understood to be James, the brother of Jesus and a leader in the early Jerusalem church. He writes with authority and pastoral concern for the moral and spiritual conduct of believers.

2. Workmen/Harvesters
These are the laborers who worked in the fields, representing the oppressed and marginalized in society. They are victims of injustice, having their rightful wages withheld.

3. The Lord of Hosts
A title for God emphasizing His sovereignty and power. It underscores God's role as a defender of the oppressed and a judge of injustice.

4. Fields
Symbolic of the agricultural society of the time, where landowners had significant power over laborers. The fields represent the setting of economic transactions and potential exploitation.

5. Wages
The payment due to the laborers, which is unjustly withheld. This represents the broader theme of economic justice and the ethical treatment of workers.

Teaching Points

God's Justice and Advocacy
God hears the cries of the oppressed and acts as their advocate. Believers are called to reflect God's justice in their dealings with others.

Ethical Treatment of Workers
Christians are called to ensure fair and just treatment of employees and workers, reflecting God's concern for justice in economic matters.

The Power of Prayer and Crying Out
The cries of the oppressed reach God, emphasizing the power of prayer and the importance of seeking divine intervention in times of injustice.

Accountability Before God
Those in positions of power and authority are accountable to God for their actions, especially in how they treat others.

The Role of Wealth and Stewardship
Wealth should be used responsibly and ethically, with an awareness of its potential to corrupt and lead to injustice.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the title "Lord of Hosts" in James 5:4 emphasize God's role in addressing injustice?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are treating others fairly in our own economic transactions and relationships?

3. How do the cries of the oppressed reaching God challenge us to respond to injustice in our communities?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Old Testament laws regarding the treatment of workers, and how can they be applied today?

5. How does the theme of accountability before God in James 5:4 influence our understanding of stewardship and the use of resources?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 24:14-15
This passage in the Law of Moses commands that laborers be paid promptly, highlighting God's concern for justice and fair treatment of workers.

Leviticus 19:13
Reinforces the prohibition against defrauding or robbing your neighbor, including withholding wages.

Malachi 3:5
Speaks of God's judgment against those who oppress workers, widows, and orphans, showing a consistent biblical theme of justice.

Matthew 20:1-16
The Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard, which emphasizes fairness and the generosity of God, contrasting with human tendencies toward injustice.