James 1:9-11 Cross References

I noticed that my reference Bibles have absolutely no cross references for James 1:9-10a, when there are several that should be made.  Additionally, I have some explanatory notes from word studies done.

James 1:9 - Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted:

Word study: "Low degree" - low circumstances; meager situation; lowly condition.  Obviously a financially poor brother, in contrast to "the rich" in verse 10.

Cross references - The poor is exalted as a believer; the poor believer rejoices in his place in Christ: Luke 10:20; II Corinthians 6:10; Revelation 2:9; Revelation 5:9-10.

James 1:10a - But the rich [brother], [let him rejoice] in that he is made low.

"The rich" - Rich in verse 10 is an ADJECTIVE not a NOUN.  An adjective must be paired with a noun, so we go back to "BROTHER" in verse 9.  The rich man in verse 10 is a rich BROTHER, a Christian; not just any rich man.

Explanation: By trials (James 1:2-4), by lack of wisdom and reliance on God instead of self (James 1:5-8), and by other means, the rich Christian is continually shown his human frailty, his inability, and his true riches in Christ.  In this he is to rejoice.

Note: The verb for "rejoice" is elsewhere translated "glory" and "boast", giving us a complete picture of the word.  Therefore, these causes for rejoicing (the poor being exalted; the rich being humbled) are causes for pride ("glory") - not an improper pride, but an inner satisfaction.  This inner satisfaction is expressed outwardly ("boast") as we give testimony and praise for what God has done with our lives.  Our boast here is in God.

James 1:10a Cross references - the right rejoicing of the rich: Matthew 5:3; Matthew 5:10-12; II Corinthians 11:30; II Corinthians 12:7-10; I Peter 4:13.

James 1:10b-11 - Because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.  For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways.

Cross references: Possibly an allusion to Isaiah 40:6-8 and similar passages comparing human life to wilting flowers.  Also see Matthew 6:25-34.  See other passages on the brevity of life, such as James 4:14.

VM