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James 5:7-9

• More about the Zealots
  • In the Jewish War, they took revenge on the rich, according to Josephus.
  • Rooted in the 2nd century BC:
    • Revolution (Judas Maccabaeus)
    • The ensuing Hasmonean dynasty becomes corrupt
    • The Zealots targeted corrupt Hasmoneans – even assassinating a high priest.
    • Later they targeted Romans.
    •  = dagger-bearers.
    • Herod the Great tries to extinguish the movement, forcing them to Galilee.
  • Later history (the Jewish War, 66-73 AD):
    • Wealthy priestly families attacked. (They enjoyed a very high standard of living.)
    • The Roman Emperor, Nero, aware of the seriousness of the rebellion in Palestine, sent his best general Vespasian, with three legions, to quell the outbreak. Vespasian’s troops easily penetrated Josephus’ defences and dispersed the Galilean army.
    • Gamla vanquished, 4000 Zealots killed, while 5000 hurled themselves over the cliff.
    • Masada—another amazing story of resistance.
• Today's text urges patience. Recall the socioeconomic disparities / lack of love, as well as the real possibility of persecution.
• No grumbling or bad attitudes.
• We are reminded not to be judgmental (negativity)—harking back to 4:11-12.
• The rich will get what’s coming to them: 1:10-11; 4:9-10; 5:1-6.
• Nearness of the Lord can be taken two ways.
• The Judge is standing at the door.
  • Awareness of that fact should keep us humble.
  • This should also prevent us from resorting to violence, or association with violent powers, when we feel desperate about the injustices in the world—or the wickedness of our enemies.

Tomorrow: Hang in there!

• Sicarii