James 5:11 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

Bible Comments

Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.

Count them happy (Matthew 5:10). Which endure. 'Aleph (') A B, Vulgate х hupomeinantas (G5278)], 'which endured' trials in past days, like the prophets and Job. Such, not those who 'lived in pleasure and wantonness on the earth' (James 5:5), are "happy."

Patience, х hupomoneen (G5281)] - 'endurance:' answering to х hupomeinantas (G5278)] "endure." Distinct from х makrothumia (G3115)] "patience" (James 5:10): long-suffering. He reverts to the subject, James 1:3.

Job. He was therefore a real, not an imaginary person; otherwise his case would not be an example at all. Though he showed impatience, he always returned to committing himself wholly to God, and at last showed a perfect spirit of enduring submission.

And have seen (with your mental eyes). So 'Aleph (') х eidete (G1492)]. But A B х idete (G1492)], 'see also,' etc.

The end of the Lord - which the Lord gave. If Job had much to "endure," remember also Job's happy "end." Hence, learn, though much tried, to 'endure to the end.'

That - or х hoti (G3754)] 'for.'

Pitiful, and of tender mercy, х polusplangchnos (G4184) refers to the feeling; oiktirmoon (G3629), to acts]. His pity is shown in not laying on the patient endurer more trials than he is able to bear; His mercy, in giving a happy end to them (Bengel). God sees graces beneath, where we see only the surface imperfections: He takes into account the severity of his people's trials.

James 5:11

11 Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.