James 5:10
Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience.
Original Language Analysis
ὑπόδειγμα
for an example
G5262
ὑπόδειγμα
for an example
Strong's:
G5262
Word #:
1 of 16
an exhibit for imitation or warning (figuratively, specimen, adumbration)
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀδελφοί
brethren
G80
ἀδελφοί
brethren
Strong's:
G80
Word #:
5 of 16
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
7 of 16
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
μακροθυμίας
of patience
G3115
μακροθυμίας
of patience
Strong's:
G3115
Word #:
9 of 16
longanimity, i.e., (objectively) forbearance or (subjectively) fortitude
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
προφήτας
the prophets
G4396
προφήτας
the prophets
Strong's:
G4396
Word #:
11 of 16
a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet
οἳ
who
G3739
οἳ
who
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
12 of 16
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
14 of 16
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Acts 7:52Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers:Acts 3:21Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.Hebrews 13:7Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.Luke 6:23Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers unto the prophets.
Historical Context
Diaspora Jews revered prophets; James uses shared heritage to encourage Christian endurance. Hebrews 11 similarly recounts prophetic suffering as inspiration.
Questions for Reflection
- Which biblical examples inspire your perseverance?
- How can you encourage others with stories of endurance?
- Where might God be calling you to prophet-like faithfulness?
Analysis & Commentary
Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. Take the prophets as examples of suffering and patience. James roots perseverance in biblical history: faithful messengers endured affliction with steadfastness.
Reformed spirituality draws encouragement from saints of old. Scripture's narratives equip believers for endurance.