To be fair, some rich people are not possessed by their wealth. They use it to promote the gospel and support Christians . . . . . .

James is here writing to the rich people who use their wealth for their own selfish ends:

"You have lived on the earth in pleasure and luxury."

James writes like an Old Testament prophet as he describes some of the things wealthy people do:

· They heap up, or hoard treasures.
· They don't pay their workers a fair wage They live selfish, self-indulgent lives.
· They give themselves everything they want.
· They pervert justice for their own ends.
· They get rid of good people if they get in their way.

James warns the rich to weep and
howl because of the terrible
judgements coming their way. He says they
will be judged by the "LORD OF SABBATH"

This name of God means "Jehovah of Hosts". God is Commander of heaven and earth's armies. The name first appears in Isaiah 1:9 where the prophet says that if God had not spared a few people, Judah would have been utterly wiped out. The context shows that it was God who commanded the invasion of Judah. He sent the Babylonians to destroy His people's cities. Heathen armies marched at God's bidding.

It is this invincible military Commander whom James refers to, Who will judge the wealthy.