James 1:20
Verse
Context
Hearing and Doing
19My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger,20for man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires.21Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and every expression of evil, and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save your souls.
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The wrath of man - A furious zeal in matters of religion is detestable in the sight of God; he will have no sacrifice that is not consumed by fire from his own altar. The zeal that made the Papists persecute and burn the Protestants, was kindled in hell. This was the wrath of man, and did not work any righteous act for God; nor was it the means of working righteousness in others; the bad fruit of a bad tree. And do they still vindicate these cruelties? Yes: for still they maintain that no faith is to be kept with heretics, and they acknowledge the inquisition.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Man's angry zeal in debating, as if jealous for the honor of God's righteousness, is far from working that which is really righteousness in God's sight. True "righteousness is sown in peace," not in wrath (Jam 3:18). The oldest and best reading means "worketh," that is, practiceth not: the received reading is "worketh," produceth not.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. This is so far from engaging persons to do that which is right and acceptable in the sight of God, that it puts them upon doing that which is evil. The Alexandrian copy reads, "with the wrath of men do not work the righteousness of God"; do not attend upon the word and ordinances of God with a wrathful spirit. Compare, with this, Ti1 2:8. . James 1:21 jam 1:21 jam 1:21 jam 1:21Wherefore lay apart all filthiness,.... All manner of filthiness, both of flesh and spirit; all pride, vanity, wrath, malice, and evil speaking, under hearing the word: the allusion seems to be to a boiling pot, which casts up scum and filth, which must be taken off: and such is the spirit of wrathful men; it throws up the filth of haughtiness and pride, of anger, wrath, and wickedness, which must be taken off, and laid aside; or the word will not be heard to any profit, or advantage: and superfluity of naughtiness, or "malice"; the abundance and overflow of it, which arises from such an evil heart, where wrath prevails, and governs: see Pe1 2:1. There seems to be an allusion to the removing of the superfluous foreskin of the flesh, in circumcision, typical of the foreskin of the heart, spoken of in Jer 4:4 which the Targum, in that place, calls , "the wickedness", or "naughtiness of your hearts" to be removed: and receive with meekness the ingrafted word; which becomes so when it is received; when it is put into the heart by the Spirit of God, and is mixed with faith by them that hear it; so that it is, as it were, incorporated into them, and becomes natural to them, which before was not; and taking deep root in them, brings forth much fruit: and where it comes with power, it reduces every high thought into the obedience of Christ, and makes men meek and humble; and only such receive the truth in the love of it; and to such is the Gospel preached, Isa 61:1, and none but such hear it with profit and edification: which is able to save your souls; even your whole persons, both soul and body: but the soul is only mentioned, as being the more excellent part of man: this must not be understood of the word, as if it was the author or cause of salvation, but as an instrument; it being a declaration of salvation by Christ, or what shows unto men the way of salvation by him; and is the power of God unto salvation to them, when it is attended with the energy of the Spirit, and the efficacy of divine grace. See Ti2 3:15.
James 1:20
Hearing and Doing
19My beloved brothers, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger,20for man’s anger does not bring about the righteousness that God desires.21Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and every expression of evil, and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save your souls.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Psalm 119
By Walter Wilson97249:04PsalmsPSA 119:83MAL 3:16MAT 6:33JAS 1:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of finding solace and guidance in the Word of God. He encourages listeners to search the scriptures until they find the message that resonates with their hearts. The preacher also highlights the numerous titles of Jesus, each representing a specific aspect of His ability and willingness to help and bless believers. He shares a personal anecdote about a man who found comfort in reading the Bible during a difficult time. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God has done everything possible for humanity's salvation and that turning to Him and His Word is the ultimate remedy for any struggle or hardship.
Marriage: Anger, the Great Destroyer
By Shane Idleman54757:21PRO 13:15PRO 15:1PRO 15:18ACT 3:19ROM 8:5JAS 1:201PE 3:11PE 3:7This sermon addresses the issues of anger, highlighting how it can be a destructive force in our lives, fueled by selfishness, jealousy, pride, addiction, and guilt. The speaker emphasizes the importance of repentance, turning back to God, and seeking times of refreshing in His presence. The message calls for personal revival, urging individuals to address their anger, seek forgiveness, and embrace a deeper relationship with God.
The Deep Dealings of God Part 28 - Let Us Go on Unto Perfection - Gods Love
By Phil Beach Jr.271:28:19Family CrisisAccountability to GodPerfectionPSA 139:23PRO 15:1PRO 16:32PRO 22:24MAT 11:28ROM 1:211CO 10:241CO 13:5HEB 13:5JAS 1:20Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the critical need for families to return to Jesus amidst the crises affecting both the church and the family unit. He highlights that the root of these crises often lies in unthankfulness and discontentment, which can lead to sin and destruction. Beach calls for a revival that begins at home, urging families to confront heart issues and allow the Holy Spirit to transform their lives. He stresses the importance of accountability to God and the need for parents to model humility and repentance to their children. Ultimately, he encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with Christ to overcome the challenges of modern life.
Relationships: Communication, Expectations, and Healing Wounds
By Mike Bickle2147:15Communication in RelationshipsHealing WoundsPSA 16:3PRO 18:19PRO 21:19MAT 6:14MAT 11:28MRK 11:25EPH 4:29COL 3:13JAS 1:201PE 3:7Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of love and communication in relationships, reflecting on the legacy of Bob Jones, who was asked by the Lord if he learned to love. He discusses the need to be proactive in addressing wounded relationships before they become irreparable, highlighting the signs of injury in relationships and the significance of open communication. Bickle stresses that expectations must be clearly defined to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts, and he encourages couples to create agreements that foster understanding and respect. He also underscores the necessity of forgiveness and the role of gracious speech in healing relationships, reminding us that our words can either build up or tear down.
Anger, Danger, Dreams and Destiny
By Shane Idleman131:10:55Trusting God's PlanAnger ManagementGEN 34:7MAT 24:1ROM 8:28JAS 1:20Shane Idleman explores the themes of anger, danger, dreams, and destiny in his sermon, drawing from Genesis 34-36. He emphasizes the destructive nature of unchecked anger, urging listeners to respond with humility and brokenness rather than reacting impulsively. Idleman highlights the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty, especially during challenging times, and encourages believers to seek God's guidance through prayer and scripture. He also discusses the significance of dreams in God's plan, reminding the congregation that while dreams may cause friction, they are part of God's unfolding purpose. Ultimately, he calls for repentance and a deeper relationship with Christ to navigate life's trials.
Revivals That Stay
By E.M. Bounds0ISA 40:11JHN 6:52ACT 7:26GAL 5:222TI 2:24JAS 1:20JAS 4:21PE 3:8JUD 1:3The preacher delves into the meaning of 'machomai,' which signifies intense conflict, whether physical or non-physical, often leading to bitter disputes. This word is used in the Bible to describe arguments, fights, and quarrels among individuals. The sermon emphasizes the importance of maintaining peace, avoiding unnecessary quarrels, and approaching disagreements with a gentle and respectful attitude, as exemplified by biblical figures like Moses and James. Various commentators and writers caution against engaging in heated controversies, highlighting the need for love, kindness, and a spirit of reconciliation in discussions about faith and truth.
Clean and Unclean Anger
By John Henry Jowett0PRO 29:11MAT 5:44ACT 2:3EPH 4:26JAS 1:20John Henry Jowett preaches on the transformation and purification of anger, emphasizing the need to put away worldly anger fueled by envy, jealousy, and spite, and instead cultivate holy anger that seeks the good of others and the glory of God. He highlights how our anger reveals our character and questions whether it is ignited by personal grievances or noble empathy. Using the example of the Apostle Paul, he illustrates how holy anger is kindled by oppression and cruelty, devoid of impurity and as pure as the flame of oxygen, urging believers to seek the baptism of the Holy Ghost and fire.
Matthew 5:6
By Chuck Smith0RighteousnessSpiritual HungerPSA 42:1ISA 55:1MAT 5:6ROM 14:17PHP 3:9JAS 1:20Chuck Smith emphasizes the deep and intense hunger and thirst for righteousness that should characterize Christians. He illustrates how this longing is not merely for a small portion but for a complete fulfillment of goodness, which can transform individuals and ultimately the world. Smith argues that true happiness is found not in the pursuit of happiness itself but in the desire for righteousness, which aligns us with God's will. He highlights that if everyone sought righteousness, societal issues like war would diminish, as changed hearts lead to a changed world. The sermon concludes with the reminder that God values the desire for righteousness in our hearts, as seen in David's example.
A Sign of What's Inside
By Henry Drummond0PRO 29:22GAL 5:19EPH 4:31COL 3:8JAS 1:20Henry Drummond emphasizes the destructive nature of human wrath, explaining how it does not align with the righteousness of God. He delves into the deeper implications of temper, highlighting how it can reveal underlying issues such as jealousy, anger, pride, and other sinful traits that lurk within individuals. Drummond likens temper to a warning sign of a deeper spiritual disease, a manifestation of hidden sins that need to be addressed and surrendered to God.
Righteous Indignation
By Harmon A. Baldwin0PSA 37:8PRO 14:29PRO 29:11MRK 3:5ROM 12:19EPH 4:26EPH 4:31COL 3:8JAS 1:20Harmon A. Baldwin delves into the concept of righteous indignation, exploring the fine line between this and what is commonly known as anger or impatience. Various definitions and distinctions are presented, highlighting the difference in character and degree between carnal anger and holy indignation. The sermon emphasizes that righteous indignation is free from selfishness, elevating, and ennobling, while carnal anger stems from an unholy principle in the soul and is belittling and demoralizing. Baldwin also discusses the importance of discipline and upholding the requirements of the law without vindictiveness, for the glory of God and the good of humanity.
He Dares Spit in the Very Face of God Himself!
By Thomas Brooks0FrettingTrust in God's PlanEXO 5:22KI 6:33JOB 5:2PSA 37:1PSA 37:7PRO 19:3ISA 8:21EZK 16:43JON 4:4JAS 1:20Thomas Brooks emphasizes the folly of fretting against God during times of distress, illustrating how individuals often blame God for their suffering instead of recognizing their own sins that lead to misery. He cites examples from scripture, such as Pharaoh's defiance and Jonah's misplaced anger, to show that a fretful heart can lead to a direct challenge against God. Brooks warns that fretting only brings more suffering and that true wisdom lies in accepting God's will rather than rebelling against it. He encourages believers to refrain from anger towards God and to seek understanding in their trials.
1 John 3:12
By John Gill0Brotherly LoveHatred and EnvyGEN 4:8MAT 5:22JHN 15:12ROM 12:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:31HEB 11:4JAS 1:201JN 3:121JN 3:15John Gill emphasizes the importance of brotherly love by contrasting it with the hatred exemplified by Cain, who, influenced by evil, murdered his brother Abel out of envy. Gill explains that Cain's actions stemmed from his own wickedness and the acceptance of Abel's righteous sacrifice by God, which incited Cain's jealousy. He warns against allowing such hatred to take root in our hearts, as it leads to destructive actions and a separation from God. The sermon highlights the need for self-examination of our motives and the importance of faith in our works. Ultimately, Gill calls believers to embody love and righteousness, avoiding the path of Cain.
Quiet Zeal
By A.W. Tozer0Quiet ZealTrue RighteousnessISA 42:2MAT 23:15JHN 2:17ROM 12:11GAL 4:18PHP 2:14COL 3:23TIT 2:14JAS 1:201PE 3:15A.W. Tozer emphasizes the distinction between noisy zeal and the quiet zeal that reflects true godliness. He critiques those who are overly zealous in their pursuits, often creating chaos and distraction, while highlighting that genuine zeal, like that of Christ, is marked by humility and compassion. Tozer illustrates this with an anecdote about a passionate advocate for animal rights whose efforts, though well-intentioned, ultimately led to futility. He reminds us that true zeal should not be loud and disruptive but rather a quiet, steadfast commitment to righteousness. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding of what it means to be zealous in a way that aligns with God's character.
Fight the Good Fight of Faith
By A.B. Simpson0PRO 12:11PRO 14:29PRO 15:1PRO 18:21PRO 29:22MAT 5:22ROM 5:6EPH 4:26COL 3:8JAS 1:20The sermon delves into the significance of the term 'RACA' in biblical times, portraying it as a word of utter contempt and dehumanizing contempt used by the Jews during the time of Christ. The preacher explores various interpretations and historical contexts of 'RACA,' emphasizing how it reflects a deep-seated anger and contempt that seeks to strip individuals of their dignity and worth. Through a multitude of sources and biblical references, the sermon highlights how 'RACA' equates to more than just an insult, but a sin that can lead to severe judgment, akin to murder in God's eyes, as it attacks a person's self-worth and dignity.
So Exceeding Angry With Himself
By Thomas Brooks0RepentanceAnger towards SinPSA 51:3ISA 30:22ROM 7:24EPH 4:26JAS 1:20Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound anger that true penitents feel towards their own sins, illustrating that this self-directed anger is far greater than any frustration they may have towards others or external circumstances. He argues that genuine repentance involves a deep loathing and abhorrence of sin, which should be the primary focus of a believer's indignation. Brooks encourages believers to redirect their anger away from others and towards their own sinful actions, highlighting that true anger should be reserved for sin itself, not for disagreements with fellow believers.
Homily 11
By Clement of Rome0MAT 7:15MAT 25:40EPH 4:22JAS 1:201PE 1:15Peter preaches about the importance of purity, necessity of constant care for purification, righteous indignation against evil lusts, and the need to be pious towards others as images of God. He emphasizes the significance of doing good deeds, avoiding idolatry, and understanding God's mercy and judgment. Peter warns about false prophets and the importance of comparing teachings with James' preaching. He concludes his teachings in Tripolis by appointing leaders, organizing the church, and emphasizing the importance of obedience and following the true path.
An Appeal to Fathers
By Don Currin0GEN 37:3PRO 15:27PRO 20:7HOS 4:6EPH 6:4JAS 1:20Don Currin delivers a powerful sermon on the importance of fatherhood, highlighting how Satan has targeted fathers to undermine their nurturing influence, leading to defeated dads, bitter children, and fragmented families. He emphasizes Ephesians 6:4, urging fathers not to provoke their children to wrath but to bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, stressing the impact of both negative and positive actions on parenting. Currin explores how fathers provoke their children through partiality, passion, pretense, prosperity, and preoccupation, warning against neglect and sinful behaviors that can hinder a father's ability to influence their children for Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The wrath of man - A furious zeal in matters of religion is detestable in the sight of God; he will have no sacrifice that is not consumed by fire from his own altar. The zeal that made the Papists persecute and burn the Protestants, was kindled in hell. This was the wrath of man, and did not work any righteous act for God; nor was it the means of working righteousness in others; the bad fruit of a bad tree. And do they still vindicate these cruelties? Yes: for still they maintain that no faith is to be kept with heretics, and they acknowledge the inquisition.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Man's angry zeal in debating, as if jealous for the honor of God's righteousness, is far from working that which is really righteousness in God's sight. True "righteousness is sown in peace," not in wrath (Jam 3:18). The oldest and best reading means "worketh," that is, practiceth not: the received reading is "worketh," produceth not.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. This is so far from engaging persons to do that which is right and acceptable in the sight of God, that it puts them upon doing that which is evil. The Alexandrian copy reads, "with the wrath of men do not work the righteousness of God"; do not attend upon the word and ordinances of God with a wrathful spirit. Compare, with this, Ti1 2:8. . James 1:21 jam 1:21 jam 1:21 jam 1:21Wherefore lay apart all filthiness,.... All manner of filthiness, both of flesh and spirit; all pride, vanity, wrath, malice, and evil speaking, under hearing the word: the allusion seems to be to a boiling pot, which casts up scum and filth, which must be taken off: and such is the spirit of wrathful men; it throws up the filth of haughtiness and pride, of anger, wrath, and wickedness, which must be taken off, and laid aside; or the word will not be heard to any profit, or advantage: and superfluity of naughtiness, or "malice"; the abundance and overflow of it, which arises from such an evil heart, where wrath prevails, and governs: see Pe1 2:1. There seems to be an allusion to the removing of the superfluous foreskin of the flesh, in circumcision, typical of the foreskin of the heart, spoken of in Jer 4:4 which the Targum, in that place, calls , "the wickedness", or "naughtiness of your hearts" to be removed: and receive with meekness the ingrafted word; which becomes so when it is received; when it is put into the heart by the Spirit of God, and is mixed with faith by them that hear it; so that it is, as it were, incorporated into them, and becomes natural to them, which before was not; and taking deep root in them, brings forth much fruit: and where it comes with power, it reduces every high thought into the obedience of Christ, and makes men meek and humble; and only such receive the truth in the love of it; and to such is the Gospel preached, Isa 61:1, and none but such hear it with profit and edification: which is able to save your souls; even your whole persons, both soul and body: but the soul is only mentioned, as being the more excellent part of man: this must not be understood of the word, as if it was the author or cause of salvation, but as an instrument; it being a declaration of salvation by Christ, or what shows unto men the way of salvation by him; and is the power of God unto salvation to them, when it is attended with the energy of the Spirit, and the efficacy of divine grace. See Ti2 3:15.