Lesson 47,
3:13-18 James
presents a challenge to the Believer who has the wisdom of God to display it through their life.
Prin: Key to right speech - control of
the tongue, and right actions in one's life is right thinking, wisdom.
- wise - sofo,j = wisdom, a general and thorough knowledge; Jewish usage refers to a knowledge of
practical moral wisdom which rests on a knowledge of God = His word.
- understanding =
evpisth,mwn - implies the knowledge of an
expert, or professional - a specialist; someone well-instructed,
What James is looking for here is
not someone with just intellectual or academic learning but also practical
moral and spiritual insight - discernment.
let him show by his
good behavior
- behavior =
avnastrofh,
- manner of life, conduct; most often translated as here, behavior
1 Pet
The truly wise and understanding one
is going to demonstrate that fact in the practical daily affairs of life. The Christian life is most effectively
demonstrated through our dealing with the routine issues of life.
his deeds in the gentleness of wisdom.
- gentleness; often translated meekness, its the opposite of arrogance; it speaks of being free from malice and a
desire for revenge;
James has challenged them to
evaluate where they're at in relationship with Christ and just how that
relationship is reflected in their life.
Summary
1. The wise and
understanding one is the one who has the implanted word which provides the incite to apply truth in the practical issues of life.
2. The result is the
wisdom of God overflowing in their life demonstrating the transforming power of
God.
3. The ultimate
proof, the demonstration of your declared position is how you conduct
yourselves in your daily affairs.
4. Your social
behavior is to be recognized as good, noble and attractive. (from God's vpt)
5. The believers works then become the acid test of his spiritual
progress.
6. Application of
that BD that is in your soul in the family setting, on the job, in your social
life, in the local church, and during testing demonstrate clearly what you are
before God.
7. These works are to
be performed with "gentleness of wisdom."
8. It is the opposite
of arrogant self-assertiveness.
9. James has challenged them to evaluate where
they're at in their relationship with Christ and just how that relationship is
reflected in their life.
But if you
have bitter jealousy
*** A zeal for God
and His truth is commendable but we must be ever mindful of the subtleties of
the sin nature which can quickly pervert that positive zeal into bitter
antagonism especially against those who do not express the same beliefs in God
and His word quite the same way as we do.
and selfish ambition in your heart,
- it
denotes one who is willing to use unethical divisive means to promote their own
views and interests.
Now 2 commands are given by James
do not be arrogant
- Some were gloating over another on
the ground of an assumed superiority.
and so lie against the
truth
- by
their attitude and actions they were repudiating the truth of the royal law
which as Believers they professed to accept and promote.