James' tirade against wealthy people...
Illustration
James' tirade against wealthy people is an echo of the statement by Jesus, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God." But Jesus did not state that it is impossible for those with great wealth to find salvation, for "with God all things are possible."
There's an element of humor in Jesus' illustration of a camel going through a needle's eye. Sometimes deliberate humor is the best way to make a serious point. I like the following "stewardship" story.
The church building was in dilapidated condition and the minister called a meeting of the congregation to plead that repairs be made. When they gathered, all eyes were on the front pew, where the richest member of the congregation sat. He was also, perhaps, the stingiest!
The pastor made his plea for proper attention being given to the Lord's house, pointing out the flaking paint, the cracked windows, and the worn carpet. When he finished, there was lengthy silence. Then the wealthy man, sensing that everyone was watching for him to make the first move, got to his feet. "Pastor," he said, "you've convinced me. To start off a fund for repairs, I'll give fifty dollars."
A groan came from the group. If the richest man gave only fifty dollars, repairs could never be made. But just as the rich man sat down again, a piece of plaster dislodged from the ceiling and fell on his head. A little dazed, he struggled to his feet, and said, "Maybe I better make that five hundred dollars." As he resumed his seat, a voice came from the balcony, shouting, "Hit him again, Lord!"
There's an element of humor in Jesus' illustration of a camel going through a needle's eye. Sometimes deliberate humor is the best way to make a serious point. I like the following "stewardship" story.
The church building was in dilapidated condition and the minister called a meeting of the congregation to plead that repairs be made. When they gathered, all eyes were on the front pew, where the richest member of the congregation sat. He was also, perhaps, the stingiest!
The pastor made his plea for proper attention being given to the Lord's house, pointing out the flaking paint, the cracked windows, and the worn carpet. When he finished, there was lengthy silence. Then the wealthy man, sensing that everyone was watching for him to make the first move, got to his feet. "Pastor," he said, "you've convinced me. To start off a fund for repairs, I'll give fifty dollars."
A groan came from the group. If the richest man gave only fifty dollars, repairs could never be made. But just as the rich man sat down again, a piece of plaster dislodged from the ceiling and fell on his head. A little dazed, he struggled to his feet, and said, "Maybe I better make that five hundred dollars." As he resumed his seat, a voice came from the balcony, shouting, "Hit him again, Lord!"
