James 1:21
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
All filthiness - Πασαν ῥυπαριαν. This word signifies any impurity that cleaves to the body; but applied to the mind, it implies all impure and unholy affections, such as those spoken of Jam 1:15, which pollute the soul; in this sense it is used by the best Greek writers. Superfluity of naughtiness - Περισσειαν κακιας· The overflowing of wickedness. Perhaps there is an allusion here to the part cut off in circumcision, which was the emblem of impure desire; and to lessen that propensity, God, in his mercy, enacted this rite. Put all these evil dispositions aside, for they blind the soul, and render it incapable of receiving any good, even from that ingrafted word of God which otherwise would have saved their souls. The ingrafted word - That doctrine which has already been planted among you, which has brought forth fruit in all them that have meekly and humbly received it, and is as powerful to save your souls as the souls of those who have already believed. I think this to be the meaning of εμφυτον λογον, the ingrafted word or doctrine. The seed of life had been sown in the land; many of them had received it to their salvation; others had partially credited it, but not so as to produce in them any saving effects. Besides, they appear to have taken up with other doctrines, from which they had got no salvation; he therefore exhorts them to receive the doctrine of Christ, which would be the means of saving them unto eternal life. And when those who were Jews, and who had been originally planted by God as altogether a right vine, received the faith of the Gospel, it is represented as being ingrafted on that right stock, the pure knowledge of the true God and his holy moral law. This indeed was a good stock on which to implant Christianity. This appears to be what the apostle means by the ingrafted word, which is able to save the soul.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
lay apart--"once for all" (so the Greek): as a filthy garment. Compare Joshua's filthy garments, Zac 3:3, Zac 3:5; Rev 7:14. "Filthiness" is cleansed away by hearing the word (Joh 15:3). superfluity of naughtiness--excess (for instance, the intemperate spirit implied in "wrath," Jam 1:19-20), which arises from malice (our natural, evil disposition towards one another). Pe1 2:1 has the very same words in the Greek. So "malice" is the translation, Eph 4:31; Col 3:8. "Faulty excess" [BENGEL] is not strong enough. Superfluous excess in speaking is also reprobated as "coming of evil" (the Greek is akin to the word for "naughtiness" here) in the Sermon on the Mount (Mat 5:37), with which James' Epistle is so connected. with meekness--in mildness towards one another [ALFORD], the opposite to "wrath" (Jam 1:20): answering to "as new-born babes" (Pe1 2:2). Meekness, I think, includes also a childlike, docile, humble, as well as an uncontentious, spirit (Psa 25:9; Psa 45:4; Isa 66:2; Mat 5:5; Mat 11:28-30; Mat 18:3-4; contrast Rom 2:8). On "receive," applied to ground receiving seed, compare Mar 4:20. Contrast Act 17:11; Th1 1:6 with Th2 2:10. engrafted word--the Gospel word, whose proper attribute is to be engrafted by the Holy Spirit, so as to be livingly incorporated with the believer, as the fruitful shoot is with the wild natural stock on which it is engrafted. The law came to man only from without, and admonished him of his duty. The Gospel is engrafted inwardly, and so fulfils the ultimate design of the law (Deu 6:6; Deu 11:18; Psa 119:11). ALFORD translates, "The implanted word," referring to the parable of the sower (Mat. 13:1-23). I prefer English Version. able to save--a strong incentive to correct our dulness in hearing the word: that word which we hear so carelessly, is able (instrumentally) to save us [CALVIN]. souls--your true selves, for the "body" is now liable to sickness and death: but the soul being now saved, both soul and body at last shall be so (Jam 5:15, Jam 5:20).
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:21 get rid of: Literally put off, like filthy clothing; cp. Eph 4:22; 1 Pet 2:1. • the word God has planted . . . has the power to save your souls: James emphasizes that Christians are called to respond to a word that God himself has put within our very beings (in fulfillment of Jer 31:31-34). • The soul refers to the whole person (so also in Jas 5:20; see Gen 2:7; 1 Pet 3:20).
James 1:21
Hearing and Doing
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
Discernment - Part 1
By Vance Havner7.6K30:58DiscernmentEXO 30:33AMO 4:4AMO 5:4MAT 7:21EPH 2:19HEB 10:25JAS 1:21In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of discernment in the Church today. He emphasizes that spiritual truth may seem foolish to the natural man, but it can only be understood through the Spirit of God. The speaker also criticizes the practice of trying to manufacture spiritual experiences, stating that true worship and songs of praise come from a genuine place within the heart. He then introduces the topic of discerning the truth and highlights the confusion and uncertainty that many Christians face in discerning what is true and false in today's world.
"Be Ye Doers of the Word" Part 1
By Joshua Daniel6.3K25:18JAS 1:21This sermon emphasizes the importance of not just hearing the Word of God but actively living it out, warning against self-deception and the consequences of despising God's Word. It calls for a transformation that leads to action, humility, repentance, and obedience to God's teachings, highlighting the impact of choices on individuals, families, and nations.
Examine Yourselves
By Keith Daniel4.5K55:05ExaminationJAS 1:21JAS 1:23In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of being not just hearers, but doers of the word of God. He emphasizes the need to lay aside sinful behavior and receive the word with humility and obedience. The preacher warns against self-deception and forgetting the teachings of the word. He also highlights the significance of examining oneself in the mirror of God's word and departing from iniquity. The sermon concludes with a reminder that true faith is evidenced by works and righteousness, and those who do not practice righteousness are not of God.
The Mightiest Weapon God Can Have at His Disposal
By Keith Daniel2.9K1:06:13PrayerMAT 7:232CO 13:5JAS 1:211JN 2:31JN 3:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of faith accompanied by works. He quotes from the book of Matthew, where Jesus teaches that a good tree will produce good fruit, while a corrupt tree will produce evil fruit. The preacher urges the audience to examine themselves in the mirror of God's Word to determine if they are truly in the faith. He also references passages from 1 Peter and 2 Peter, highlighting the call to holiness and the promise of partaking in the divine nature through faith. The sermon concludes with a thought-provoking question from the book of James, questioning whether faith without works can truly save a person.
Are We Blind Too?
By Alistair Begg1.9K38:50Spiritual BlindnessISA 6:9MAT 6:33LUK 16:19JHN 3:19JHN 9:39JAS 1:21In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that the coming of Jesus into the world brings about a division among people. He explains that encountering Jesus and his claims forces individuals to make a decision. The speaker uses the example of the Pharisees questioning their own blindness to illustrate how people view themselves and Jesus. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God to teach and reveal Himself to the listeners through the Bible.
James, 1977
By Norman Grubb1.5K2:00:34JamesROM 6:15JAS 1:21JAS 3:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the fourth dimension and how the mind is the closest we can get to experiencing it. He emphasizes the importance of loving our neighbors as ourselves and warns against discord and greed among believers. The speaker references Jesus walking on water and highlights the need for harmony and peace in order to produce fruitful lives. The sermon also mentions the book of James and addresses the issue of worldly greed and competition among believers.
The Cup of Christ
By Jim Binney1.4K52:21GethsemaneJAS 1:21In this sermon, the speaker tells a story about a man who found himself in a dangerous situation on a railroad bridge. The man held on tightly as a train passed inches above his fingers, but eventually his grip slipped and he fell six inches onto soft grass. The speaker uses this story to illustrate the foolishness of holding onto things that hinder us from receiving the blessings of God. He also references the story of the rich young ruler and the prodigal son to emphasize the importance of letting go of resistance and finding true purpose in life. The sermon encourages listeners to focus on what will last for eternity and to invite Jesus to be a part of their lives.
Robert Murray Mccheyne - Saintly Pastor of Dundee (Famous Saints #1)
By Stephen Hamilton1.3K57:10Robert Murray McCheynePSA 27:8MAT 6:33JHN 9:4ACT 16:141CO 2:2JAS 1:211PE 1:23The video is a sermon transcript about the preaching of the word of God by Robert Murray McShane. The main focus of the sermon is on John chapter 9 verse 4, where Jesus says, "I must work the works of him that sent me while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work." McShane's life and ministry were marked by this verse, as he emphasized the importance of living in a way that would be missed at one's departure. After only two years of ministry, McShane's health began to fail, and he eventually passed away. Despite his short time in ministry, McShane's intellect and dedication to studying the Bible were evident, and he left a lasting impact on both the town and the church.
Take Heed How You Hear
By Roy Hession1.3K47:25WarningMAT 6:33LUK 8:18ROM 9:13JAS 1:21In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that the purpose of the Southworld conference is not just for games and enjoyment, but primarily to hear and receive the word of God. The speaker encourages the audience to take heed of how they hear, as the effectiveness of their experience at the conference depends on their attitude and receptiveness. The speaker highlights that the speakers themselves are not the main source of spiritual growth, but rather the word of God, which should be received with meekness. The audience is reminded that the manner and state of their hearts when hearing the word will determine whether they receive nothing or have a life-changing encounter with Jesus.
The Nature of Man - Dichotomy
By John Murray1.2K48:47Nature Of ManMAT 12:18ACT 2:27ROM 2:9JAS 1:211PE 1:91PE 2:252PE 1:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of the Bible as a source of revelatory detail for understanding various topics. They emphasize that systematic theology aims to systematize the data provided by scripture on each subject. The sermon then focuses on the aspect of teaching that man is soul or spirit, and how our probation continues even in the disembodied state. The speaker references Hebrews 9:27 to highlight that judgment and eternal destiny are determined by the actions done through the body. They also mention 2 Corinthians 5:10 and 2 Peter 1:12-15 as passages that support the idea that the body plays a crucial role in the final judgment.
Seeking His Preeminence - Part 2
By Lehman Strauss1.1K30:28PreeminenceGEN 1:1GEN 17:5PSA 33:6PSA 33:9JHN 5:24ROM 4:17HEB 11:3JAS 1:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of listening to the word of God. He shares a personal anecdote about his hearing checkup and how it reminded him of the significance of attentive listening. The preacher highlights the power of God's word to bring about change in people's lives and the ultimate goal of preaching and teaching the Bible. He references John 5:24, where Jesus states that those who hear His word and believe in Him have everlasting life. The preacher also discusses the self-interpretive nature of the Bible and encourages listeners to trace references and understand the context of verses. He concludes by urging the congregation to be attentive and responsive to God's word.
The Shout of a King Is Among Them
By Dean Taylor8731:07:25RevivalNUM 23:19MAT 6:33JHN 1:14JHN 6:70JAS 1:21In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Balaam and his encounter with an angry angel. The preacher emphasizes that God can use anyone and anything to speak His word. The story serves as a reminder that we should not just observe the people of God from afar, but actively participate and enter into the faith. The preacher also highlights the importance of focusing on Jesus and the gospel, rather than getting caught up in theological debates.
Worship in the Midst of War
By Jono Sims55740:40DEU 27:14JOS 8:30PSA 116:11MAT 6:33JAS 1:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of faithful preaching and declares that the faithful man of God is called to declare the whole counsel of God, regardless of popularity. He references the apostle Paul and his commitment to preaching the truth. The preacher also shares a personal experience where he was criticized for preaching on the wrath of God, but he defends his approach by pointing to the theme of righteousness in the book of Romans. He then draws a parallel to the story of Joshua in the Bible, highlighting the importance of worshiping and praising God amidst battles and conquests.
This Sacred Book
By Keith Daniel5541:26:32PSA 17:4PSA 112:1PSA 119:81PSA 119:92PSA 119:105PSA 119:130PSA 119:162ISA 34:16HEB 6:5JAS 1:21This sermon emphasizes the vital facets of the Bible, highlighting its role as the source of salvation, the evidence of true faith, the importance of not neglecting it to avoid backsliding, and the necessity of soaking in its teachings for spiritual growth, renewal, and survival. It also underscores the Bible's significance as a moral compass, a means of daily renewal, a source of safe navigation, and a guide for prayer and testing of faith. The sermon stresses the power of God's word to comfort, strengthen, and instill hope in times of affliction, testing, and challenges, ultimately pointing to the essential role of the Bible in a believer's life.
What Is a Christian 04 a Child Needs a Home
By James K. Boswell42740:51MAT 6:332TI 3:152TI 4:132TI 4:15JAS 1:21In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of four key elements in the life of a believer: praying, searching, meditation, and obedience. These elements provide knowledge and power to the believer. The speaker also highlights the need for care, hope, and instruction in the life of a child of God. The sermon references various Bible verses, including Proverbs 4:1-13, which emphasizes the importance of instruction and holding onto it as a source of life. The speaker concludes by urging the audience to remember and honor Jesus through communion and to eagerly await His return.
Spiritual Believers and the Soul
By Watchman Nee0Spirit vs. SoulSurrender to the Holy Spirit2CH 7:1PSA 103:1MAT 11:29LUK 23:46ACT 20:24ROM 6:11GAL 2:20HEB 4:12JAS 1:211PE 1:22Watchman Nee emphasizes the critical distinction between the spirit and the soul in the life of a believer, urging Christians to recognize the dangers of allowing the soul to dominate their spiritual walk. He explains that true spiritual growth requires a willingness to surrender the natural life to the authority of the Holy Spirit, which involves a daily commitment to the cross and a conscious effort to differentiate between the operations of the spirit and the soul. The sermon highlights the necessity of allowing God's Word to pierce and divide the soul from the spirit, leading to a life that is fully yielded to God's will and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Nee calls believers to embrace this process of separation and surrender, assuring them that it leads to true peace and spiritual prosperity. Ultimately, he encourages a life of faith that magnifies the Lord and serves others selflessly.
Epistle 23
By George Fox0Power of God's LoveUnity in ChristJER 23:29JHN 1:1ROM 5:51CO 1:241CO 13:51CO 15:47EPH 4:3EPH 4:16HEB 7:16JAS 1:211JN 4:16George Fox encourages believers to not fear the powers of darkness but to maintain unity and love through the power of God. He emphasizes the importance of meeting together in faith, recognizing the eternal nature of Christ, the second Adam, who transcends earthly struggles. Fox urges friends to remain faithful in God's life and power, allowing Christ to reign among them and fostering a community rooted in peace and love. He highlights the transformative power of God's word, which saves and strengthens the soul against opposition. Ultimately, he calls for a collective commitment to live in the love of God, which builds up the body of Christ.
The Pruning Knife
By Andrew Murray0The Word of GodSpiritual GrowthPSA 119:9MAT 7:24JHN 8:32JHN 15:3JHN 15:5ROM 12:22TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:211PE 1:23Andrew Murray emphasizes that the true pruning knife of the heavenly Husbandman is not affliction, but the Word of God, which is sharper than any two-edged sword. He explains that while affliction can lead to discipline, it is the Word that cleanses and prepares the heart for the Holy Spirit's work. Jesus' teachings have already cleansed believers, and it is through yielding to the Word that one can experience true spiritual growth and fruitfulness. Murray encourages believers to approach the Word with a heart ready for cleansing and transformation, trusting in God's ability to prune away all that hinders spiritual life. He concludes with a prayer for cleansing through the Word, seeking freedom from self and a deeper connection to the Vine.
The Power of God's Word
By Andrew Murray0Faith and ObedienceThe Power of God's WordPSA 119:105ISA 55:11MAT 4:4JHN 1:1ROM 10:171TH 2:132TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 1:211PE 1:23Andrew Murray emphasizes the transformative power of God's Word, asserting that faith comes through hearing and receiving the Word with meekness. He explains that the Word is not just a source of information but is living and active, capable of working faith and obedience within believers. Murray encourages Christians to trust in the Word, regardless of their feelings of inadequacy, as it is the Word that cultivates faith and empowers obedience. He reassures young believers that they can indeed believe and obey through the Spirit's work in them, as they meditate on and hold fast to God's promises and commands. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep reliance on the Word of God as the source of spiritual life and strength.
The World Issues of To-Day
By Jessie Penn-Lewis0Spiritual WarfareSoul vs. SpiritGEN 1:26JHN 3:3ROM 8:72CO 5:17GAL 5:17EPH 4:141TH 5:23HEB 4:12JAS 1:211PE 1:23Jessie Penn-Lewis addresses the critical distinction between 'soul-force' and 'spirit-force', emphasizing the dangers posed by the misuse of soul powers in the current age of increased Satanic activity. She explains that the soul, which encompasses self-consciousness and moral faculties, can lead believers astray if it operates independently of the spirit, where God's presence dwells. The sermon warns that the world is witnessing a clash between the forces of the soul, manipulated by the enemy, and the divine forces of the Spirit, as humanity approaches the tribulation period foretold in Scripture. Penn-Lewis highlights the necessity for believers to understand their spiritual identity and the importance of relying on the Spirit rather than the fallen attributes of the soul. This understanding is crucial for resisting the deceptive tactics of the enemy in these last days.
How to Differentiate Between Being Spiritual and Being Soulish
By Watchman Nee0Soulish LifeSpiritual LifeJHN 3:6ROM 8:9ROM 12:21CO 2:142CO 5:17GAL 5:17EPH 4:23COL 3:2JAS 1:211PE 2:11Watchman Nee discusses the distinction between being spiritual and being soulish, emphasizing that after regeneration, believers possess both a soulish life and a spiritual life. He explains that while the spiritual life is strong, the soulish life often dominates unless one willingly surrenders it to allow the Holy Spirit to operate fully. A spiritual Christian lives by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, while a soulish Christian remains influenced by the mind and emotions, failing to draw strength from the spiritual life. The sermon highlights the necessity of allowing God's nature to rule over our being for spiritual growth.
More on Josiah Humbling Himself Before the Lord
By Bob Hoekstra02CH 34:26PSA 51:17PRO 15:33ISA 66:2ZEC 7:11MAT 5:5PHP 2:3JAS 1:211PE 5:5Bob Hoekstra preaches on the importance of responding humbly to God's word, using the example of King Josiah who, upon hearing the neglected word of God, humbly tore his clothes and wept before the Lord, escaping the judgment deserved by the rebellious people. Josiah's blessings of grace were a result of his tender heart towards God's word, in contrast to the hardhearted response of the Israelites in Zechariah's day who faced great wrath for refusing to heed God's word. Josiah's humility and meekness before God's word allowed him to experience God's grace and avoid the calamity that was to come upon the land.
Something Must Be Done (Part One)
By Gardiner Spring0PRO 14:30PRO 27:4MRK 15:10ROM 1:29GAL 5:211TI 6:4JAS 1:21JAS 4:51PE 2:1The preacher delves into the concept of malice (kakia) as a quality of wickedness, depravity, and ill-will, highlighting its destructive nature and the root of various vices. Kakia is described as a vicious disposition that rejoices in hurting others, leading to a wicked habit of the mind. Envy (phthonos) is explored as a form of malice that resents others' excellence or happiness, leading to division, strife, and even murder. The sermon emphasizes the importance of putting aside malice, envy, and hatred, as they destroy fellowship and lead to a corrupt and loveless way of life.
The Field Under Sowing
By John Sung0The Word of GodSpiritual GrowthMAT 13:23MRK 4:1LUK 8:15JHN 7:38JAS 1:21John Sung emphasizes the importance of receiving the Word of God with an open heart, using the parable of the sower to illustrate how different types of soil represent various responses to God's message. He warns against pride and distractions that prevent spiritual growth, urging listeners to humble themselves and allow the Word to take root in their lives. Sung encourages believers to become instruments of God, bearing fruit and witnessing to others, while also highlighting the necessity of Jesus as the source of strength and healing for spiritual ailments. He concludes with a call for Jesus to reign in our hearts, transforming us into rivers of living water that flow abundantly to others.
Feast the Slave, and Starve the Wife?
By Thomas Brooks0Soul CareEternal PerspectivePRO 4:23MAT 16:26MRK 8:36LUK 12:202CO 4:18PHP 3:19COL 3:21TI 4:8HEB 12:1JAS 1:21Thomas Brooks emphasizes the paramount importance of prioritizing the eternal welfare of our souls over earthly concerns. He argues that it is foolish to nourish the body while neglecting the soul, equating this neglect to madness. Brooks warns that those who prioritize their physical needs above their spiritual well-being risk losing everything of true value, including God and eternal glory. He urges listeners to diligently care for their souls, as true comfort in life and confidence in death hinge on this vital work.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
All filthiness - Πασαν ῥυπαριαν. This word signifies any impurity that cleaves to the body; but applied to the mind, it implies all impure and unholy affections, such as those spoken of Jam 1:15, which pollute the soul; in this sense it is used by the best Greek writers. Superfluity of naughtiness - Περισσειαν κακιας· The overflowing of wickedness. Perhaps there is an allusion here to the part cut off in circumcision, which was the emblem of impure desire; and to lessen that propensity, God, in his mercy, enacted this rite. Put all these evil dispositions aside, for they blind the soul, and render it incapable of receiving any good, even from that ingrafted word of God which otherwise would have saved their souls. The ingrafted word - That doctrine which has already been planted among you, which has brought forth fruit in all them that have meekly and humbly received it, and is as powerful to save your souls as the souls of those who have already believed. I think this to be the meaning of εμφυτον λογον, the ingrafted word or doctrine. The seed of life had been sown in the land; many of them had received it to their salvation; others had partially credited it, but not so as to produce in them any saving effects. Besides, they appear to have taken up with other doctrines, from which they had got no salvation; he therefore exhorts them to receive the doctrine of Christ, which would be the means of saving them unto eternal life. And when those who were Jews, and who had been originally planted by God as altogether a right vine, received the faith of the Gospel, it is represented as being ingrafted on that right stock, the pure knowledge of the true God and his holy moral law. This indeed was a good stock on which to implant Christianity. This appears to be what the apostle means by the ingrafted word, which is able to save the soul.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
lay apart--"once for all" (so the Greek): as a filthy garment. Compare Joshua's filthy garments, Zac 3:3, Zac 3:5; Rev 7:14. "Filthiness" is cleansed away by hearing the word (Joh 15:3). superfluity of naughtiness--excess (for instance, the intemperate spirit implied in "wrath," Jam 1:19-20), which arises from malice (our natural, evil disposition towards one another). Pe1 2:1 has the very same words in the Greek. So "malice" is the translation, Eph 4:31; Col 3:8. "Faulty excess" [BENGEL] is not strong enough. Superfluous excess in speaking is also reprobated as "coming of evil" (the Greek is akin to the word for "naughtiness" here) in the Sermon on the Mount (Mat 5:37), with which James' Epistle is so connected. with meekness--in mildness towards one another [ALFORD], the opposite to "wrath" (Jam 1:20): answering to "as new-born babes" (Pe1 2:2). Meekness, I think, includes also a childlike, docile, humble, as well as an uncontentious, spirit (Psa 25:9; Psa 45:4; Isa 66:2; Mat 5:5; Mat 11:28-30; Mat 18:3-4; contrast Rom 2:8). On "receive," applied to ground receiving seed, compare Mar 4:20. Contrast Act 17:11; Th1 1:6 with Th2 2:10. engrafted word--the Gospel word, whose proper attribute is to be engrafted by the Holy Spirit, so as to be livingly incorporated with the believer, as the fruitful shoot is with the wild natural stock on which it is engrafted. The law came to man only from without, and admonished him of his duty. The Gospel is engrafted inwardly, and so fulfils the ultimate design of the law (Deu 6:6; Deu 11:18; Psa 119:11). ALFORD translates, "The implanted word," referring to the parable of the sower (Mat. 13:1-23). I prefer English Version. able to save--a strong incentive to correct our dulness in hearing the word: that word which we hear so carelessly, is able (instrumentally) to save us [CALVIN]. souls--your true selves, for the "body" is now liable to sickness and death: but the soul being now saved, both soul and body at last shall be so (Jam 5:15, Jam 5:20).
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:21 get rid of: Literally put off, like filthy clothing; cp. Eph 4:22; 1 Pet 2:1. • the word God has planted . . . has the power to save your souls: James emphasizes that Christians are called to respond to a word that God himself has put within our very beings (in fulfillment of Jer 31:31-34). • The soul refers to the whole person (so also in Jas 5:20; see Gen 2:7; 1 Pet 3:20).