5:10

take as a pattern . . . the prophets: According to one lexicon, the Greek word here rendered “pattern” can refer to an example or model that “should spur one on to imitate it.” Jesus encouraged his disciples to imitate his way of doing things, saying: “I set the pattern for you.” (Joh 13:15) Similarly, James here urges his readers to imitate God’s faithful spokesmen from times past.​—See Glossary, “Prophet.”

the suffering of evil: Such prophets as Elijah, Jeremiah, and Daniel set an example in suffering all kinds of adversities; they bravely faced opposition and risked death. (1Ki 19:9, 10; Jer 38:6; Da 6:16, 17; Heb 11:36-38) Some were beaten, imprisoned, or even murdered by those who did not want to hear the word of God. (1Ki 18:4, 13; 22:7, 8, 19-28; 2Ch 16:7-10; 24:20-22) Both Jesus and Stephen referred to the bitter persecution endured by the prophets. (Mt 23:31, 32 and study note; Ac 7:52) Despite those trials, the prophets were exemplary in the exercising of patience​—they waited on Jehovah and completely relied on him.​—2Ch 36:15, 16; Jer 20:8-11; Mic 7:7, ftn.

who spoke in the name of Jehovah: The main objective of Jehovah’s faithful prophets was to convey what God wanted people to hear. They spoke “in the name of Jehovah,” representing him. Thus, they often used such expressions as “this is what Jehovah says” (2Sa 7:5; Isa 56:1; Jer 2:2; Am 1:6; Ex 5:1; Eze 2:4; Zec 1:3), “hear the word of Jehovah” (Eze 37:4; Hos 4:1), and “hear . . . what Jehovah is saying” (Mic 6:1).​—For the use of the divine name in this verse, see App. C3 introduction; Jas 5:10.