Bible Dictionaries
Rust

Holman Bible Dictionary

Coating produced by the corrosive effects of air and water on a metal, especially iron. Rust on a copper cooking pot symbolized Jerusalem's persistent wickedness in Ezekiel 24:6 ,Ezekiel 24:6,24:12-13 . Jesus highlighted the folly of relying on earthly treasures subject to rust (Matthew 6:19-20 ). In the style of an Old Testament prophet, James outlined God's future judgment on the wealth-reliant rich as if it were already accomplished (James 5:1-6 ). James' mention of riches, moths, and rust (James 5:2-3 ) suggests that he was applying Jesus' saying. The scientific observation that gold and silver do not rust should not obscure James' primary emphasis: one is a fool to rely on riches which will not survive God's coming judgment. Ill-gotten riches will serve as evidence and witness for God's prosecution. The very riches relied on for security will provide the corrosive rust effecting God's judgment.