For the seed which one day produces the reward which righteousness brings can only be sown when personal relationships are right and by those whose conduct produces such relationships. - PC, without partiality -- recurring to the warning against partial respect to persons, James 2:1, James 2:4, James 2:9. The true wisdom is not rigid but is willing to listen and skilled in knowing when wisely to yield. Hypocrisy was a vice which Jesus exposed and denounced with all the vehemency of his being, the entire 23chapter of Matthew being given over to such a purpose, the conduct of those ancient Pharisees being the perfect example of what Christian teachers today ought not to be and ought not to do. Can faith save?" We may find in this passage four characteristics of the wrong kind of teaching. Solomon also states in Proverbs 30:5-6, "Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. It is very difficult to be a teacher or a preacher and to remain humble; but it is absolutely necessary. There is an easiness that is weak and faulty; but it is not a blamable easiness to yield ourselves to the persuasions of God's word, and to all just and reasonable counsels or requests of our fellow-creatures; no, nor to give up a dispute, where there appears a good reason for it and where a good end may be answered by it. The comfort is that God can deal with it God who gives the believer His own nature, and knows how to bring down the old nature so that there may be scope for the manifestation of what is of Himself. A backbiting tongue hath cast out virtuous women and, deprived them of their labours. James (ii) It is characteristic of the natural man. "Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. Who is there that should not desire that its blessed influence should spread around the world? 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. WebJames 3 He preached in the same church as C. H. Spurgeon over one hundred years earlier. Without hypocrisy We are on firm ground for the meaning of this. James goes back, as it were, to the beginning of the chapter. The tongue, God help us that we might be so yielded to the Spirit that He would do for us what we can't do for ourselves and that is bring our tongue under control.I've said so many things that I wish I had not of said; said in a moment of anger. let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord." These words serve to remind the teacher of the great responsibility he has voluntarily chosen. Not from the new nature of which God is the blessed source, but from the old. Man should also strive to have peace within himself (Philippians 4:7). Nederlandstalige Bijbelstudies door Stan Marinussen, Copyright - Enduring Word       |      . Coming as it does after epieikes ( G1933) , it probably bears this second meaning here. 3:9-12 With it we bless the Lord and Father and with it we curse the men who have been made in the likeness of God. (b) Kosmos ( G2889) can mean world. There is a kind of clever and arrogant wisdom which separates man from man, and which makes a man look with superior contempt on his fellows. You do not require to enfeeble a single phrase. (i) The true wisdom is pure. 154. A pure spirit is the best promoter of peace, and will do more than anything else to secure the prevalence of truth. If on the contrary there were bitter envy and strife in their hearts, how could they boast against the truth, or he against it? Indeed, it seems to me in itself sinful for a man to refuse an oath (supposing its form otherwise unobjectionable) if required to do so by proper authority. is first pure; it is pure in itself, it is free from everything that is earthly, carnal, or sensual, or devilish; it produces purity of heart, of life, and conversation; and is the means of keeping persons pure and chaste, and free from impure lusts, lusts of uncleanness, pride, envy, wrath which prevail in carnal and unregenerate men: and then peaceable; it inclines and engages those who have it to live in peace with the saints, and even with all men; with those of their own household, with their neighbours, yea, with their enemies: it is also "gentle"; or makes men gentle, moderate, and humane, so as that they bear, and forbear; they bear with the infirmities of the weak; readily forgive injuries done them; do not rigidly exact what is their due, but recede from their just right for the sake of peace and love; and do not bear hard upon others for their failings, but cover them with the mantle of love: and it is. Is it not precisely what those who quote would find the greatest difficulty in honestly proving that they value? Jesus, one day, said something that is worth considering at this point. It was necessarily negative, not positive, in character. The phrase, therefore, could mean that the tongue is the adornment of evil. But resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Do not you try to settle difficulties, but put yourself in the attitude of dependence. Clearly he is in this place addressing his brethren in Christ. He does so unsought, and surely undeserved. It is not only that the nature of man expresses itself in the tongue, but in the feelings of the heart; and alas! But we have to take care that we are guided of God in this, which is important in the present day when we know that the spirit of the age is endeavouring to blot out God in all that touches man here below. For, if he has a fanatical bitterness and is obviously controlled by selfish and personal ambition, then, whatever claims he makes in his arrogance, all he does is to be false to the truth which he professes to teach.". (James 1:2-3) Thus it is at once apparent that we are on practical ground the manifestation of godliness toward both man and God, that here the Holy Ghost is pressing this as the very first injunction of the epistle. Compare James 2:14-26. Easy to be entreated has the meaning of being easily "persuaded to forgiveness. If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here: We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. In the early church the teachers were of first rate importance Wherever they are mentioned, they are mentioned with honour. It works nothing suitable to His moral nature. Here indeed is its terror. Heavenly wisdom is easy to be entreated, eupeithes; it is very persuadable, either to what is good or from what is evil. See the Romans 14:19 note; Hebrews 12:14. WebExode 17:3. i. This is put, first of all, - JFB, pure -- The term hagnos has the same Greek root as holy (hagios). Um It has nothing of its own of which to be ashamed, and which needs to be concealed; its office is not to hide or conceal anything that is wrong. James is saying that this wrong kind of wisdom is no more than an animal kind of thing; it is the kind of wisdom which makes an animal snap and snarl with no other thought than that of prey or personal survival. WebClarke's Commentary Verse 17. "Confess your faults one to another, and pray for one another, that ye may be healed." This wisdom is pure because it is also connected with Gods word. James 3 ", On the other hand, one may and should be "blessed." Why Does God Compare Our Relationship with Him to That of a Bride and Groom? Psalms 24:3-4; Psalms 51:7; Matthew 5:8; Romans 7:22-23; Hebrews 12:14). It is the power of the Spirit of God alone that can grave these things on the heart. Click to enable/disable _gid - Google Analytics Cookie. An oath, therefore, should not be refused when put by a magistrate. But the true wisdom at all times brings men closer to one another and to God. ". Behold, how great a matter" (or wood, as it is given in the margin) "a little fire kindleth! Web2 Pierre 3:17. It is pure, without mixture of maxims or aims that would debase it: and it is free from iniquity and defilements, not allowing of any known sin, but studious of holiness both in heart and life. It is the part of us which disobeys him. The man who is epieikes ( G1933) is the man who knows when it is actually wrong to apply the strict letter of the law. There seems to be a complete contrast between the two kinds of wisdom. It was quite right that others should so designate him; but he calls himself "the servant," not merely "of God," but "of the Lord Jesus Christ.". This term is linked with the next one and both speak of the care of the poor, needy, and alienated of James 2:15-16. Holy Spirit lead us into truth. Click to enable/disable essential site cookies. So, too, the tongue is a little member of the body, but it makes arrogant claims for itself. James 1:17. by Grant Richison | Jul 30, 2000 | James | 30 comments. James first of all warns against a desire to teach the Word of God that would stem or emanate just from your own desire to be in front of people or whatever. Surely, then, an individual solicited to yield up what he believed to be truth, or what were cherished convictions, might properly assign this text as a reason why he could not, and ought not; and if an individual might, why not any number associated into a church? Let us then endeavour to profit by the warning, and above all by the precious lesson in the word of our God. WebSupplements to Commentaries Chapter 17: 2.1 New Testament Introductions Chapter 18: 2.2 New Testament Theologies Chapter 19: 3. (Galatians 2:14) Pauls charge against Peter was that he was acting hypocritically. Jonah's special mission was to Nineveh, to the most famous Gentile city of that day. And this connects itself, as it seems to me, with what follows: "But he giveth more grace." Instead of ever giving battle for its rights supposed or real, there is clearly the yieldingness of grace about it. True wisdom may be known by the meekness of the spirit and temper: Let him show with meekness, c. It is a great instance of wisdom prudently to bridle our own anger, and patiently to bear the anger of others. We have some account of true wisdom, with the distinguishing marks and fruits of it: Who is a wise man, and endued with knowledge among you? It is impossible to find an English word to translate this quality. Read full chapter Footnotes James 3:17 Or willing to yield James 3:17 Or unwavering James 3:17 in all English translations James 2 James 4 It isnt just the inner power to think and talk about things the right way; it is full of good fruits. The Christian must not be conformed to this world ( Romans 12:2). What the man pretends to be, he is. The word here used ( epieikes) is rendered moderation in Philippians 4:5; patient in 1 Timothy 3:3; and gentle in Titus 3:2; James 3:17, and 1 Peter 2:18. The form of the word used here also occurs in Hebrews 12:11. That is to say, nothing good can ever grow in an atmosphere where men are at variance with one another. It is a sobering thing to remember that the wisdom he possesses is devilish rather than divine. But yet what trouble it can get us into. It first maintains the character and glory of God, and then seeks the fruits of peace among men. But, he is not so proud as to think he knows all truth and someone else cannot possibly teach him anything. commentary 15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. James Commentary To bring about peace, we must rid ourselves of hate, suspicion, and fear and replace them with love, patience, and understanding. In the New Testament, the term is found only here and has two possible meanings. At this point, James lists seven characteristics of this beneficial wisdom. There is no disguise or mask assumed. I do not doubt that the writer is the one called "James the just," and "the Lord's brother;" but with all propriety, and with a beauty that we should do well to ponder and learn from, he here avoids calling himself the Lord's brother. We are so apt to say of someone in trouble, "It is his own fault; he brought it on himself," and, therefore, to feel no responsibility for him. 17 Therefore, if we call the tongue the evil kosmos ( G2889) , it means that it is that part of the body which is without God. Check to enable permanent hiding of message bar and refuse all cookies if you do not opt in. II. It is not likely that a Christian would be afraid of the chances and changes of life. Nor does James spare the gross inconsistency too often experienced. James 3 You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. There is confusion in every evil way, "but the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable." Whether they believe or not, they are all addressed in this epistle. This is not in the least denied. "Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; and ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou here, or sit here under my footstool; are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts? It means easily persuaded, compliant. And if I am constantly in strife, constantly in turmoil, constantly stirred up, constantly, you know, bad mouthing this person, that person, this thing, that thing, then that wisdom that I have is not of God. Ils avaient peu de penses au-dessus de la satisfaction de leurs envies corporelles. "Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. In The Sayings of the Fathers we read, "He that is arrogant in decision is foolish, wicked, puffed up in spirit." This he brings in: "If any of you lack wisdom." But ye have despised them." It need scarcely be remarked that it is no question here of the righteousness of God in a doctrinal sense. . When Jesus says, "Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy," He is teaching something new and different for that age. "Who shall set a watch before my mouth and a sea, of wisdom upon my lips, that I shall not suddenly fall by them and my tongue destroy me not?" Its works prove its nature and its source. These two things must be put together to make up the account of true wisdom: who is wise, and endued with knowledge? Had he in this epistle launched out into the vast expanse of the truth, he would only have given an impulse to the heaping up of more dogmas. But the wisdom that is from above - Compare the notes at 1 Corinthians 2:6-7. Far from being theoretical and speculative, Jamess concept of wisdom is thoroughly practical. The exact meaning of this word is difficult to translate into English. Founded, then, on this, the communication of His own nature, with its moral judgment, we. It's not Godly wisdom, it's earthly, it's sensual, it's devilish. For this kind of wisdom descends not from above. Next, he gives the reason; "for," says he, "the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.". James 3:17-18 (Smarty Pants / Heavenly Wisdom) May 8, 2021 / Jeff Stott. The Israelites no doubt found it hard, but the Spirit of God deigns here to instruct them. WebMatthew Henry's Concise Commentary 3:13-18 These verses show the difference between men's pretending to be wise, and their being really so. The stroke of the whip maketh marks. How can a man have evidence that he is a true Christian, who is not such? As Dummelow observed, "The wisdom described here is moral rather than intellectual."[39]. that with Paul we may be able to say, Not with fleshly wisdom, but in simplicity and godly sincerity, by the grace of God, we have our conversation. It is grace alone that has communicated the nature of God; it is grace alone that strengthens the new nature by the gift of the Holy Ghost who dwells in us; and yet more than this, "He giveth more grace. James enters upon this expressly in the next chapter. Every teacher runs the risk of becoming "Sir Oracle." and even gloried in it! This, then, I suppose though not venturing to speak with more decision is the practical result. Finally, James says something which every Christian Church and every Christian group should have written on its heart. at all cost, and this entirely apart from us. Barclay adds, "The true wisdom is so cleansed of all ulterior motives and of self that it has become pure enough to see God. See the rabbinical meaning of of Oh, how true is this, and how admirably drawn to the life! We can see the need, value, and wisdom of what has been said, but we may find here the occasion of it: with Israel there was peculiar danger of taking up the doctrines of Christianity as a system. The second meaning here suggested seems best to accord with the sense of the passage; and according to this the idea is, that the wisdom which is from above, or true religion, makes us impartial in our treatment of others: that is, we are not influenced by a regard to dress, rank, or station, but we are disposed to do equal justice to all, according to their moral worth, and to show kindness to all, according to their wants. So don't be many masters knowing that we will receive the greater condemnation. As the Jewish Rabbis themselves said, "Not learning but doing is the foundation, and he who multiplies words multiplies sin" (Sayings of the Fathers 1: 18). And easy to be entreated - The word here used does not elsewhere occur in the New Testament. If we are wiser than others, this should be evidenced by the goodness of our conversation, not by the roughness or vanity of it. It may be either (1) without variance, or (2) without doubtfulness, or (3) without partiality; probably (1) as R.V. What Does Colossians 2:6-7 Teach Us about Our Faith Walk? It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. Now, if you look at nature, it is plain that sin is there first, and in consequence of the sin that dwells in the nature, there are lusts as the effects of it. There he engages in full fellowship with the Gentiles by eating with them. It is perfectly plain from the early portion of the Acts of the Apostles, and confirmed too by the latest glimpses which the Holy Ghost gives us of the church in Jerusalem, that there was still a great and decided cleaving to that which was properly Jewish on the part of the early Christians there. This word "pure" (hagne) is closely related to the word "holy" (hagios). Without dissimulation; without pretending to be what it is not; acting always in its own character; never working under a mask. 3:15-16 Such wisdom is not the wisdom which comes down from above, but is earthly, characteristic of the natural man, inspired by the devil. without partiality: "Without partiality" (adiakritos) is the next characteristic mentioned. Hence many are of opinion (and to this I am rather disposed, though I would not venture to say more) that the verse ought to be thus divided: "Do ye think that the scripture speaketh in vain? Few are in such constant spiritual peril as teachers and preachers. The body (soma, G4983) is our physical flesh and blood; the soul (psuche, G5590) is the physical life which we share with the beasts; the spirit (pneuma, G4151) is that which man alone possesses, which differentiates him from the beasts, which makes him a rational creature and kin to God. They also, obviously, have meaning for all Christians as God expects us to grow in wisdom. Read Introduction to James Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes No more is meant here than that, being happy, he is to give vent to his joy in the praise of the Lord. People who were ill slept in the temples of Aesculapius at night, and if one of these tame serpents glided over them, that was supposed to be the healing touch of the god. There must be no attempts to reach peace by overleaping purity. As we have found, he particularly warns against the tongue as the expression of the heart's excitement if not of malice. but with the same tongue we curse men, who are made after the similitude or the likeness of God. Undeserved! Cleanse your hands, ye sinners." WebAble only to rend and overthrow, party-spirit will, if it be gloried and exulted in, lay down the walls of Zion even to the ground. But if any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy (1Corinthians 3:17), and the words must be translated much more sternly, If any man destroy. WebJames 3, Coffman's Commentaries on the Bible, James Burton Coffman's commentary on the Bible is widely regarded for its thorough analysis of the text and practical application Such is the law of liberty. The current spirit in America is that of selfishness and a "me first attitude." If this wisdom is not freed from fault, it will be no better than the worldly wisdom. The hypocrite can do as much damage, and sometimes more, than the false teacher in a local congregation. He does not conclude, however, without another appeal to conscience. There were no people so prone to ordinary swearing as the Jews. It was used even by those who were clothed with miraculous power. This order is for the good of the Christian. Christian pity is not merely an emotion; it is action. WebMatthew Henry's Commentary on James 3:17 Commentary on James 3:13-18 (Read James 3:13-18) These verses show the difference between men's pretending to be wise, and their being really so. The tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, it is capable of defiling the whole body, it sets on fire the course of nature; and is set on fire of Gehenna. (128) The word is found only here, and has been variously rendered, because the verb from which it comes has various meanings, to discern, to make a difference, to judge, to examine, to contend or litigate, and to doubt. What an unexpected moral link! Yet, what an exposure! The death thereof is an evil death, the grave were better, than it. Look that thou hedge thy possession about with, thorns and bind up thy silver and gold and weigh thy words in a, balance and make a bridle for thy lips and make a door and bar for, thy mouth. He needed it in many ways; and so do we. ( Galates 3:1 )_ 2. Temptations elsewhere mean trials, not inward solicitations of evil; they have no bearing upon, nor connection with, the evil nature, but on the contrary are the ways in which the Lord out of His love tries those in whom He has confidence, and works for the greater blessing of those whom He has already blessed. What does James 3:17 mean? | BibleRef.com To my mind it is not only inexact but misleading and dangerous. Full of mercy Ready to pass by a transgression, and to grant forgiveness to those who offend, and performing every possible act of kindness. without hypocrisy: "Without hypocrisy" (anupokritos) is the last characteristic of wisdom James mentions in this verse. Be slow then to speak, swift to hear. If I only had said it though, I could have saved them so much mental anguish and turmoil. Some people are undoubtedly skilful in laying plans and using circumstances to achieve their goals, but their actions are often characterized by jealousy, selfishness and dishonesty. WebMatthew Henry's Commentary. This does not mean expressly the inspired psalms. Behold, we put bits in the horse's mouth, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body with that bit. Isaiah says "wickedness burns like a fire, it consumes briers and thorns; it kindles the thickets of the forest" ( Isaiah 9:18). Peace can further refer to the right relationships between people. At this stage hagnos ( G53) describes ritual, but not necessarily moral, purity. This sevenfold description (taking mercy and good fruits as one quality) of the wisdom that is from above is most instructive. Elias is cited in support of this. Philip Lilley reminds us that Dr. H. F. Stewart said that the arguments of Pascal with the Jesuits reminded him of Alan Breck's fight with the crew of the Covenant in Stevenson's Kidnapped: "The sword in his hand flashed like quicksilver into the middle of our flying enemies, and at every flash came the scream of a man hurt." We shall find this by and by, inJames 4:1-17; James 4:1-17; but here he simply looks on man's nature, and then he raises his eyes to God. James 3 At first it had only a ceremonial meaning and meant nothing more than that a man had gone through the right ritual cleansings. Does a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? The seed, as ever, must produce its own proper fruit. Of all Greek words in the New Testament this is the most untranslatable. It could refer to the partiality condemned in James 2:1-13.
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