James 1:9-11

The paradox of a bragging that comes of humility and faith is common to James and Paul: it starts from Jeremiah 9:23 t The brotherhood which levels all differences into a glorious liberty, fraternity, and equality is the community of God's faithful people. The rich man, as such, has only the common lot to expect: he needs to be lifted down, as the beggar is lifted up, to the place of eternal safety. James vividly expands the famous simile of Isaiah 40:6 from the conditions of Palestine: the easterly sirocco at sunrise (Mark 4:6) blasted vegetation (cf. Psalms 103:16). The goings are trade journeys (cf. James 4:13) he is cut off while still on the move.