The Sin of Greediness Condemned

To whom does the apostle address these words?
What were the abuses of which they were guilty
What judgment is pronounced against them?
Practical applications
Generally speaking, the apostle continues to address his words to those who would fit into the category of being worldly.

James addresses his word to the rich. He probably has in mind the same ones mentioned in James 2: 6,7.

This would limit it to the unconverted rich.

In condemning the unconverted rich….he may have had in mind the words of Amos 8: 4-10

He charges them with the sin of greediness, of defrauding their servants, of living in lavish self-indulgence and cruelty.

The wicked rich are guilty of persecuting the Lord….because they are persecuting the Lord's people.

Finally…..we see that the judgment that the apostle pronounces against them is both present and future. James 5: 1-2