What does James 5:17 mean?

Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. James 5:17

Explanation

The verse James 5:17 refers to the prophet Elijah from the Old Testament, highlighting his humanity and the powerful effect of his prayer. The “like passions as we are” phrase indicates that Elijah shared the same nature, emotions, and vulnerabilities that we, as humans, experience. Despite his human frailties, Elijah’s prayer to God was so fervent and effective that it controlled the natural elements, causing a drought for three and a half years. This verse underscores the power of prayer of a righteous individual and God’s responsiveness to such prayer.

Historical Context

This verse is part of the Epistle of James in the New Testament, traditionally attributed to James the Just, brother of Jesus Christ. The epistle addresses various Jewish Christian congregations scattered abroad. It is a general call for practical faith lived out through good works. James refers to Elijah, a prophet from the 9th century BCE during the reign of King Ahab and Queen Jezebel in Israel, as recorded in 1 Kings chapters 17 to 19. Elijah’s story includes his prayers for a drought as a divine judgment against the idolatry promoted by Ahab and Jezebel.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints may focus on aspects such as the power of fervent prayer, prophetic intercession, or divine sovereignty over nature. From a charismatic perspective, this verse might be used to emphasize the effectiveness of prayer and the possibility of miracles. A reformed theologian may highlight the sovereignty of God in responding to Elijah’s prayer according to His will. Some theological traditions hold the apostolic prayers as unique to the biblical era, while others believe that similar practices should persist in contemporary faith experiences.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse suggest that believers should emulate the earnestness of Elijah’s prayers in their own lives. It teaches that prayer is not just a passive activity but can actively engage with God’s purpose and have real-world effects. The idea that a righteous person’s prayer has great power can encourage individuals to cultivate a deep prayer life and maintain faith even in difficult situations.

Cross-References

• 1 Kings 17:1 – “And Elijah the Tishbite, who was of the inhabitants of Gilead, said unto Ahab, As the LORD God of Israel liveth, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word.”
• 1 Kings 18:42-45 – Elijah prays for rain, and it comes, ending the drought.
• Luke 4:25 – “But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the land;”

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text for this verse include:

• “ἤλιας” (Elias) – the Hellenized form of Elijah, meaning “Yahweh is God”.
• “ὁμοιοπαθής” (homoiopathes) – meaning “of like passions”, “similar in nature” or “subject to the same feelings”.
• “προσευχὴ” (proseuchē) – commonly translated as “prayer,” implying supplication, devotion, and worship.
• “ἐνεργουμένως” (energoumenōs) – translated as “earnestly,” its root word “energeo” indicates “to be at work,” reflecting intensity and fervent activity.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of a prophet influencing weather is noted in various cultures. For instance, in Norse mythology, Thor, the god of thunder, controls the rain and storms. In many ancient cultures, prophets, shamans, or figures akin to Elijah intercede with the gods or the divine realm for changes in weather patterns, often related to judgments or blessings.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern meteorological understanding knows that weather patterns are influenced by environmental factors, not prayer. However, the verse’s context does not attempt to provide a scientific explanation for the drought but rather to document a historical event perceived as a divine action. From a scientific perspective, such occurrences are typically considered part of mythic religious narratives rather than empirical history.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have interpreted James 5:17. Adam Clarke points out that Elijah’s passions illustrate that the most eminent saints are still human and subject to human frailties. Matthew Henry remarks on the power of prayer, especially from those who are righteous before God. John Wesley notes the need for Christians to seek the same spirit of prayer exemplified by Elijah. Most commentaries concur on the primary message being the impactful nature of earnest prayer, rather than the miraculous control of weather by human actions.