James 5:9 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

Bible Comments

Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.

Grudge not, х stenazete (G4727)] - 'Murmur not;' literally, 'groan:' a half-suppressed complaint of impatience and harsh judgment. Having enjoined long-suffering in bearing wrongs from the wicked, he now enjoins a forbearing spirit as to offences from brethren. Christians who bear the former patiently, sometimes are impatient at the latter, though less grievous.

Lest ye be condemned. 'Aleph (') A B, Vulgate х kritheete (G2919)], 'judged,' referring to Matthew 7:1. To 'murmur against one another' is virtually to judge, and so become liable to be judged.

Judge standeth before the door - referring to Matthew 24:33. It ought to be translated here, as there, 'doors.' plural. The phrase means 'is near at hand,' (Genesis 4:7, which the Targums of Jonathan and Jerusalem explain, 'thy sin is reserved unto the judgment of the world to come:' cf. "the everlasting doors," Psalms 24:7, whence He shall come forth). The Lord's coming to destroy Jerusalem primarily; ultimately, His coming visibly to judgment.

James 5:9

9 Grudge nota one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.