Overcoming Oppression

What is the primary command for us when we are being mistreated and oppressed? It may surprise you. Let’s look carefully at what this means for the believing community this Sunday (See text and study questions below). Both this Sunday and next, we will be looking at these examples of patience in oppression.

Text

7 Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains.
8 You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.
9 Do not complain brethren against one another so that you yourselves may not be judged; behold the Judge is standing right at the door.
10 As an example, brethren, of suffering and patience, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
11 We count those blessed who endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord's dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.

Questions
1. What is the repeated command in verses 7-8 regarding our response to difficulties?
2. What relation do you think that verse 9 has with the verses surrounding it?
3. What examples does James give of perseverance?
4. Who will face Jesus as Judge according to verse 9?