December 12, 2025
James 5:9-10
“Beloved, do not grumble against one another, so that you may not be judged. See, the Judge is standing at the doors!” vs. 9
When James was concerned about the behavior of his community he was not above using threats to get them back in line. Evidently he had become aware of bickering and grumbling within his flock, and warned them that if they continued, they could expect to be judged when the Lord returned. His method is familiar, and has been used by countless pastors through the centuries. It’s commonly believed that the quickest way to get people to change their behavior is to threaten them with impending judgment if they don’t shape up. Many times, as most parents have learned, threats do work! The problem is that when they become a pattern we can easily get caught up in a legalistic system where the gospel of grace is obscured. That’s why some people who have grown up hearing threats and warnings in church are surprised to discover that God actually loves them unconditionally. Even though John the Baptist had success with his threats, Jesus changed the world with his message of grace and forgiveness. While both these methods are still widely used, there is no doubt which is most effective with broken people! Even grumbling folks can be transformed when their environment is infused with words of affirmation and unconditional love.
Thought for the Day: How do I respond to threats?
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