James 1:25
Verse
Context
Sermons
Vance Havner
Derek Prince
Stephen Olford
Denny Kenaston
Randy Jones
Gerhard Du Toit
Basilea SchlinkSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But whoso looketh into the perfect law - The word παρακυψας, which we translate looketh into, is very emphatic, and signifies that deep and attentive consideration given to a thing or subject which a man cannot bring up to his eyes, and therefore must bend his back and neck, stooping down, that he may see it to the greater advantage. The law of liberty must mean the Gospel; it is a law, for it imposes obligations from God, and prescribes a rule of life; and it punishes transgressors, and rewards the obedient. It is, nevertheless, a law that gives liberty from the guilt, power, dominion, and influence of sin; and it is perfect, providing a fullness of salvation for the soul: and it may be called perfect here, in opposition to the law, which was a system of types and representations of which the Gospel is the sum and substance. Some think that the word τελειον, perfect, is added here to signify that the whole of the Gospel must be considered and received, not a part; all its threatenings with its promises, all its precepts with its privileges. And continueth - Παραμεινας· Takes time to see and examine the state of his soul, the grace of his God, the extent of his duty, and the height of the promised glory. The metaphor here is taken from those females who spend much time at their glass, in order that they may decorate themselves to the greatest advantage, and not leave one hair, or the smallest ornament, out of its place. He being not a forgetful hearer - This seems to be a reference to Deu 4:9 : "Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life." He who studies and forgets is like to a woman who brings forth children, and immediately buries them. Aboth R. Nathan, cap. 23. Shall be blessed in his deed - In Pirkey Aboth, cap. Deu 4:14, it is said: "There are four kinds of men who visit the synagogues, 1. He who enters but does not work; 2. He who works but does not enter. 3. He who enters and works. 4. He who neither enters nor works. The first two are indifferent characters; the third is the righteous man; the fourth is wholly evil." As the path of duty is the way of safety, so it is the way of happiness; he who obeys God from a loving heart and pure conscience, will infallibly find continual blessedness.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
looketh into--literally, "stoopeth down to take a close look into." Peers into: stronger than "beholdeth," or "contemplated," Jam 1:24. A blessed curiosity if it be efficacious in bearing fruit [BENGEL]. perfect law of liberty--the Gospel rule of life, perfect and perfecting (as shown in the Sermon on the Mount, Mat 5:48), and making us truly walk at liberty (Psa 119:32, Church of England Prayer Book Version). Christians are to aim at a higher standard of holiness than was generally understood under the law. The principle of love takes the place of the letter of the law, so that by the Spirit they are free from the yoke of sin, and free to obey by spontaneous instinct (Jam 2:8, Jam 2:10, Jam 2:12; Joh 8:31-36; Joh 15:14-15; compare Co1 7:22; Gal 5:1, Gal 5:13; Pe1 2:16). The law is thus not made void, but fulfilled. continueth therein--contrasted with "goeth his way," Jam 1:24, continues both looking into the mirror of God's word, and doing its precepts. doer of the work--rather, "a doer of work" [ALFORD], an actual worker. blessed in his deed--rather, "in his doing"; in the very doing there is blessedness (Psa 19:11).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty,.... By which is meant, not the moral law, but the Gospel; for only of that is the apostle speaking in the context: this is no other than the word of truth, with which God begets men of his own will; and is the ingrafted word which is able to save, and of which men should be doers, as well as hearers, Jam 1:18, and this is compared to a glass by the Apostle Paul, Co2 3:18, and the word here used for looking into it is the same word the Apostle Peter uses of the angels, who desired to look into the mysteries of the Gospel, Pe1 1:12 all which serve to strengthen this sense; now the Gospel is called a law; not that it is a law, strictly speaking, consisting precepts, and established and enforced by sanctions penalties; for it is a declaration of righteousness and salvation by Christ; a publication of peace and pardon by him; and a free promise of eternal life, through him; but as it is an instruction, or doctrine: the law with the Jews is called because it is teaching and instructive; and everything that is so is by them called by this name: hence we find the doctrine of the Messiah, which is no other than the Gospel, is in the Old Testament called the law of the Lord, and his law, Isa 2:2 and in the New Testament it is called the law, or doctrine of faith, Rom 3:27 and this doctrine is perfect, as in Psa 19:7, it being a perfect plan of truths, containing in it all truth, as it is in Jesus, even all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; and because it is a revelation of things perfect; of the perfect righteousness of Christ, and of perfect justification by it, and of free and full pardon of sins through him, and of complete salvation by him; and because it directs to Christ, in whom perfection is: and it is a law or doctrine of liberty; , "that which is if liberty"; which has liberty for its subject, which treats of it, even of the liberty wherewith Christ makes his people free: the Gospel proclaims this liberty to captive souls; and is the word of truth, which makes them free, or is the means of freeing them from the slavery of sin, from the captivity of Satan, and from the bondage of the law; and is what gives souls freedom and boldness at the throne of grace; and is that which leads them into the liberty of grace here, and gives them a view and hope of the glorious liberty of the children of God hereafter. This doctrine is as a glass to look into; in which is beheld the glory of Christ's person and office, and grace; and though by the law is the knowledge of sin, yet a man never so fully and clearly discovers the sin that dwells in him, and the swarms of corruption which are in his heart, as when the light of the glorious Gospel shines into him, and when in it he beholds the beauty and glory of Jesus Christ; see Isa 6:5 and looking into this glass, or into this doctrine, is by faith, and with the eyes of the understanding, opened and enlightened by the Spirit of God; and the word here used signifies a looking wistly and intently, with great care and thought, and not in a slight and superficial manner; and such a looking is designed, as is attended with effect; such an one as transforms into the same image that is beheld, from glory to glory; and happy is the man that so looks into it. And continueth therein; is not moved away from the hope of the Gospel, nor carried about with divers and strange doctrines; but is established in the faith, stands fast in it, and abides by it; or continues looking into this glass, and to Christ, the author and finisher of faith, who is beheld in it; and keeps his eye upon it, and the object held forth in it; and constantly attends the ministration of it: he being not a forgetful hearer; but takes heed to the things he hears and sees, lest he should let them slip; and being conscious of the weakness of his memory, implores the divine Spirit to be his remembrancer, and bring to his mind, with fresh power and light, what he has heard: but a doer of the work; of the work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope, and of every work and ordinance the Gospel ministry points unto; doing and being subject to all in faith, from a principle of love, and with a view to the glory of God and Christ. This man shall be blessed in his deed; or "doing", and while he is doing; not that he is blessed for what he does, but "in" what he does; see Psa 19:11 he having, in hearing the word, and looking into it, and in submitting to every ordinance of the Gospel, the presence of God, the discoveries of his love, communion with Christ, and communication of grace from him by the Spirit; so that Wisdom's ways become ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace; see Psa 65:4, moreover, in all such a man does, he is prosperous and successful; in all he does he prospers: and so he is blessed in his deed, by God, whose blessing makes rich, both in spirituals and temporals: there seems to be an allusion to the blessed man in Psa 1:1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:25 law that sets you free: God’s word gives us new birth and salvation (1:18, 21) but demands that we do what it says (1:22-25).
James 1:25
Hearing and Doing
24and after observing himself goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.25But the one who looks intently into the perfect law of freedom, and continues to do so—not being a forgetful hearer, but an effective doer—he will be blessed in what he does.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Where Is America Headed?
By Vance Havner6.0K32:07AmericaMAT 6:33JHN 8:31JHN 8:44ROM 12:1JAS 1:25In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that as Christians, we are engaged in a spiritual battle that has already been won by Jesus on the cross. He compares our role to that of soldiers in a war, where we are called to remain faithful even in difficult times. The preacher also highlights the importance of genuine faith, reminding us that superficial belief is not enough. He encourages believers to present themselves as living sacrifices and to be transformed by the renewing of their minds, as instructed in Romans 12:1-2.
Commanded to Love - Part 2
By Derek Prince3.7K28:28PHP 2:3JAS 1:25JAS 2:8
This sermon delves into the concept of love as described in the Epistle of James, emphasizing the importance of loving one's neighbor as oneself, which is referred to as the perfect law and the royal law. It explores the profound nature of love, highlighting that true freedom comes from loving others unconditionally, just as Jesus exemplified. The speaker shares personal experiences and reflections on compassion, suffering, and the deep bond that comes from sharing in Christ's sufferings, urging listeners to seek a deeper connection with God through sacrificial love and compassion for others.
Crisis-01 Crisis of Identity
By Stephen Olford2.7K52:26MAT 5:16ROM 8:282CO 3:17JAS 1:25In this sermon, the preacher recounts the story of Paul's conversion on the Damascus road. He emphasizes the significance of Paul's encounter with Jesus and his subsequent choice to follow Him. The preacher then poses the question to the audience if they have answered the call to follow Jesus. He addresses the issue of feeling worthless and lacking identity, asserting that God has a purpose for every life. The preacher highlights the importance of understanding God's plan and purpose for each individual, drawing from the book of Romans and emphasizing the certainty of our relationship with God and His calling in our lives.
The Great Deception
By Denny Kenaston1.6K1:15:24Great DeceptionPSA 8:2PRO 4:23MAT 6:331CO 10:12GAL 5:1HEB 4:12JAS 1:25In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of dealing with sin early, comparing it to a serpent that can lead us astray. He shares a tragic story of a young man who rebelled against God and ended up in a dangerous situation in the army. The preacher warns that self-deception can occur when we hear the word of God but fail to respond to it. He encourages the congregation to seek freedom, liberty, and power in their lives by diligently keeping their hearts focused on Jesus.
The Absolute Lordship of Jesus
By Randy Jones1.2K56:38Lordship of JesusMAT 7:21MAT 25:1LUK 6:46ACT 2:36ACT 17:11ROM 2:13JAS 1:25In this sermon, the preacher begins by praying for the Holy Spirit to open the eyes of the listeners and help them understand the truth. He emphasizes the importance of studying the Word of God for oneself and not blindly accepting what others preach or teach. The preacher highlights the contrast between the luxury and materialism of modern society and the commitment to the Lord that characterized the early church. He then discusses four passages in the Bible where Jesus addresses those who call him "Lord, Lord" but do not do his will. The sermon concludes with a powerful story of a Chinese woman who was persecuted and ultimately killed for her faith in Jesus.
Prayer Summit - Part 5 by Gerhard Dutoit
By Gerhard Du Toit63433:54MAT 6:6LUK 11:1JHN 1:1ACT 1:14EPH 1:3JAS 1:25
This sermon emphasizes the importance of churches being filled with people who are full of God, not just with a large number of attendees. It delves into the significance of deepening our relationship with God through prayer, seeking intimacy with Him, and understanding the essence of true discipleship. The message highlights the transformative power of prayer, the need for persistence in seeking God, and the profound impact of encountering the risen Christ in our lives.
Truly Free
By Basilea Schlink54904:35Radio ShowJHN 8:36ROM 6:182CO 3:17GAL 5:1JAS 1:251PE 2:161JN 1:9In this sermon transcript titled "Truly Free" by Basilia Schlink, the speaker shares her personal struggle with sin and her search for freedom. She finds solace in a Bible verse from John 8:36, where Jesus promises that those who believe in Him will be truly free. The speaker encourages listeners to engage in a battle of faith against their sins, committing themselves to God's chastening and allowing Him to break their rebelliousness. She emphasizes the power of Jesus' name in overcoming sin and encourages listeners to strive in faith, knowing that Christ can conquer every sin.
The Blessedness of Divine Chastening
By J.C. Philpot0JOB 33:19PSA 94:12PSA 119:97ISA 26:20MAT 5:3JHN 16:15ROM 8:2HEB 12:8JAS 1:25J.C. Philpot preaches about the true blessedness declared by God's word, contrasting it with the worldly views of happiness. He emphasizes that blessedness is found in being poor in spirit, mourning, meek, hungering for righteousness, merciful, and pure in heart. Philpot explains that God chastens and teaches His children out of His law to bring them true blessedness and rest from days of adversity, while the ungodly are heedlessly led to their doom, like wild beasts falling into a hidden pit prepared for them.
Scripture
By Norman Grubb0JAS 1:25Norman Grubb speaks highly of James, emphasizing his holiness and deep understanding of perfection, particularly in areas like patience, the law of liberty, faith, and controlling one's speech. Despite some viewing James as superficial, Grubb admires his profound insights and wishes he could embody such depth of faith and expression.
What's the Difference Between Holiness and Legalism?
By Michael L. Brown0JHN 8:36ROM 8:1ROM 12:22CO 3:17GAL 5:1EPH 2:8HEB 12:14JAS 1:251PE 1:151JN 1:9Michael L. Brown preaches on the stark difference between holiness and legalism, emphasizing that holiness brings life and freedom while legalism brings death and bondage. Legalism focuses on rules without relationship, fear over love, and external conformity rather than inward transformation, leading to self-righteousness or self-condemnation. In contrast, true holiness begins with the heart, flows from encountering God and His Word, and is empowered by the blood of Jesus and the Spirit of God, leading to liberty and divine life.
Righteousness
By Smith Wigglesworth0FaithRighteousnessMRK 11:24LUK 1:45JHN 14:10ROM 8:1PHP 3:14HEB 1:9JAS 1:252PE 1:12PE 1:31JN 5:18Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the importance of righteousness in the life of a believer, stating that just as Christ loved righteousness and hated iniquity, we too must embody these qualities. He highlights that through faith, we can access a divine life filled with limitless power and resources, allowing us to overcome the devil's influence. Wigglesworth illustrates this through biblical examples, such as Abraham's faith and the healing testimonies of individuals who believed in God's promises. He encourages believers to embrace their identity in Christ, which grants them access to God's righteousness and the ability to manifest His power in their lives. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper faith that leads to greater exploits for God, urging the congregation to press on toward their divine calling.
Statutes Into Songs
By Hugh Black0PSA 1:2PSA 19:7PSA 40:8PSA 119:54JAS 1:25Hugh Black preaches on the transformation that occurs when God's statutes are turned into songs in the house of our pilgrimage, signifying a deep love and joy for the Law of God. This process represents a shift from viewing the law as a set of rules to be feared to embracing it as a source of delight and inner harmony, leading to perfect freedom in obedience. The Psalter serves as a bridge between the Old and New Testaments, showcasing the progression from mere obedience to a passionate love for God's commands.
Epistle 229
By George Fox0JOB 8:13DAN 8:25JHN 4:24ROM 13:12CO 5:16GAL 2:4EPH 4:3PHP 1:5COL 3:2HEB 6:13JAS 1:25JAS 2:172PE 2:1REV 17:15George Fox preaches about the importance of living in the spirit rather than the flesh, emphasizing the need to set our affections on heavenly things and subject our souls to the higher power of truth. He urges believers to maintain spiritual minds above earthly concerns, highlighting the significance of true worship in spirit and truth. Fox also stresses the unity in the spirit as the bond of peace, fellowship in the gospel, and the liberty found in perfect unity above bondage.
The Delivered Life
By C.I. Scofield0JHN 8:36ROM 6:18ROM 8:22CO 3:17GAL 5:1JAS 1:251PE 2:16C.I. Scofield preaches about the true freedom that comes from Christ, emphasizing that despite the common belief in personal freedom, everyone is born into various forms of bondage - spiritually, mentally, and physically. Only through Jesus Christ can true emancipation be found, starting with freedom from the condemnation of sin. This freedom is a process that involves the removal of fear, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the inspiration of new relationships with God. True freedom in Christ is not about anarchy but about aligning one's will with God's, leading to a transformed life of obedience, sacrificial love, and a focus on eternal values.
Gospel Liberty
By Charles Finney0Gospel LibertyFreedom in ChristMAT 11:28JHN 8:36ROM 6:141CO 13:42CO 3:17GAL 5:1PHP 4:13HEB 12:1JAS 1:251JN 4:18Charles Finney emphasizes the concept of 'Gospel Liberty,' urging believers to stand firm in the freedom that Christ provides, which liberates them from the burdens of legalism and the yoke of bondage represented by the ceremonial law. He explains that true liberty is found in the spirit of love and obedience, rather than mere adherence to rules, and warns against the dangers of becoming entangled again in legalistic practices that stifle spiritual growth. Finney highlights that Christ makes us free by instilling His spirit within us, allowing us to fulfill the law joyfully and willingly. He encourages Christians to rely on faith and the indwelling Spirit of Christ to maintain their freedom and avoid the pitfalls of bondage. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the essence of love in our relationship with God, which is the true source of liberty.
Keeping God's Commandments
By William MacDonald0Legalism vs. GraceGod's CommandmentsMAT 5:17JHN 14:15ROM 6:14ROM 12:21CO 6:12GAL 5:13PHP 4:82TI 3:16JAS 1:251JN 5:3William MacDonald emphasizes that keeping God's commandments is not synonymous with legalism, which is the misguided attempt to earn God's favor through lawkeeping. He clarifies that while Christians are free from the law, they are not lawless; they are called to live in accordance with Christ's desires. MacDonald points out that the New Testament contains many commandments that serve as instructions for righteousness rather than penalties. He warns against the misuse of the term 'legalism' to dismiss godly behavior and encourages believers to adhere closely to Scripture for their moral guidance.
Our Highest Happiness
By A.W. Tozer0True HappinessObedience to GodPSA 103:20ECC 12:13MAT 5:8LUK 11:28JHN 15:10ROM 12:1PHP 2:13COL 3:23JAS 1:251JN 5:3A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true happiness for all moral beings is found in obedience to God, the Creator. He illustrates this by referencing Psalm 103:20, highlighting that even angels experience their highest joy in fulfilling God's commandments, viewing obedience not as a burden but as a delight. Tozer asserts that heaven is characterized by the surrender of its inhabitants to God's will, making it a realm of joy for His obedient children. He encourages believers to recognize that their fulfillment lies in aligning with God's purpose and commands.
Freedom, Personal and Moral
By Olin Alfred Curtis0PSA 119:45ISA 61:1JHN 8:32JHN 8:36ROM 6:182CO 3:17GAL 5:1GAL 5:13JAS 1:251PE 2:16Olin Alfred Curtis preaches about the intrinsic connection between personal freedom and moral responsibility, emphasizing the intuitive sense of freedom and responsibility in self-consciousness and moral decision-making. He highlights the importance of personal loyalty and the necessity of volitional freedom for the development of heroic moral character. Curtis explores the concept of error in the world and argues that personal freedom is crucial for rational thought and the pursuit of truth, countering determinism as a scheme of unfaith in humanity and divine justice.
True and False Religion
By Charles Finney0The Danger of LegalismTrue Liberty in ChristPSA 119:45MAT 11:28JHN 8:36ROM 6:18ROM 8:12CO 3:17GAL 5:1PHP 4:4JAS 1:251JN 5:3Charles Finney addresses the distinction between true and false religion, emphasizing that many people practice a form of religion that is merely a yoke of bondage rather than a source of genuine liberty. He explains that true liberty is found in a relationship with Christ, characterized by love and joy, rather than legalistic observance. Finney warns against the Judaizers who sought to combine legalism with Christianity, asserting that true faith is based solely on justification by faith. He encourages believers to examine their hearts and ensure that their faith is not a burdensome obligation but a joyful expression of love for God. Ultimately, he calls for a return to the freedom that comes from Christ, urging listeners to reject the chains of false religion.
Obedience Brings Blessing
By C.H. Spurgeon0ObedienceBlessings of GodEXO 20:6DEU 12:28PSA 37:25PSA 128:1PRO 10:22MAT 5:6JHN 14:15GAL 3:13JAS 1:251JN 2:3C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that obedience to God's commands leads to blessings for both individuals and their descendants, as highlighted in Deuteronomy 12:28. He clarifies that while salvation is not earned through works, the blessings associated with obedience remain intact for God's faithful servants. Spurgeon urges believers to heed all of God's words without selective adherence, as true blessedness comes from walking uprightly before the Lord. He warns against the futility of dishonesty and worldly conformity, asserting that genuine integrity aligns with God's pleasure and ultimately leads to prosperity. The sermon reassures that God's blessings extend to future generations of those who faithfully obey Him.
The Old Man Put Off, the New Man Put On
By J.C. Philpot0PSA 139:23ISA 52:1MRK 9:24JHN 14:11CO 6:11GAL 5:16EPH 4:22COL 3:10JAS 1:251JN 4:16J.C. Philpot preaches about the importance of putting off the old man, characterized by corrupt deceitful lusts, and putting on the new man, created in righteousness and true holiness. He describes the old man as deeply rooted in sin, deceitful, and corrupt, contrasting it with the new man, who is young, beautiful, and created after the image of God. Philpot emphasizes the need to actively put off the old man by crucifying him and putting on the new man by manifesting his graces and influences in daily life, leading to a transformation in conduct and character.
Real Freedom
By Bishop M.A. Lalachan0JHN 8:32JHN 8:34ROM 6:221CO 10:23GAL 5:1GAL 5:13JAS 1:251PE 2:16Bishop M.A. Lalachan emphasizes the concept that freedom is a gift that can be given and taken away by the people through their choices. True freedom is found in knowing and accepting the necessary limitations of laws governing nature, society, state, morality, and freedom itself. Real freedom thrives under the structure of law, allowing individuals to be virtuous, brave, wise, and free from anxiety and fear. Responsible freedom is a value to be acquired and cultivated, with self-surrender to God being the key to true liberation. Misusing freedom leads to slavery to one's passions, as Jesus stated that those who sin are slaves to sin.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But whoso looketh into the perfect law - The word παρακυψας, which we translate looketh into, is very emphatic, and signifies that deep and attentive consideration given to a thing or subject which a man cannot bring up to his eyes, and therefore must bend his back and neck, stooping down, that he may see it to the greater advantage. The law of liberty must mean the Gospel; it is a law, for it imposes obligations from God, and prescribes a rule of life; and it punishes transgressors, and rewards the obedient. It is, nevertheless, a law that gives liberty from the guilt, power, dominion, and influence of sin; and it is perfect, providing a fullness of salvation for the soul: and it may be called perfect here, in opposition to the law, which was a system of types and representations of which the Gospel is the sum and substance. Some think that the word τελειον, perfect, is added here to signify that the whole of the Gospel must be considered and received, not a part; all its threatenings with its promises, all its precepts with its privileges. And continueth - Παραμεινας· Takes time to see and examine the state of his soul, the grace of his God, the extent of his duty, and the height of the promised glory. The metaphor here is taken from those females who spend much time at their glass, in order that they may decorate themselves to the greatest advantage, and not leave one hair, or the smallest ornament, out of its place. He being not a forgetful hearer - This seems to be a reference to Deu 4:9 : "Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life." He who studies and forgets is like to a woman who brings forth children, and immediately buries them. Aboth R. Nathan, cap. 23. Shall be blessed in his deed - In Pirkey Aboth, cap. Deu 4:14, it is said: "There are four kinds of men who visit the synagogues, 1. He who enters but does not work; 2. He who works but does not enter. 3. He who enters and works. 4. He who neither enters nor works. The first two are indifferent characters; the third is the righteous man; the fourth is wholly evil." As the path of duty is the way of safety, so it is the way of happiness; he who obeys God from a loving heart and pure conscience, will infallibly find continual blessedness.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
looketh into--literally, "stoopeth down to take a close look into." Peers into: stronger than "beholdeth," or "contemplated," Jam 1:24. A blessed curiosity if it be efficacious in bearing fruit [BENGEL]. perfect law of liberty--the Gospel rule of life, perfect and perfecting (as shown in the Sermon on the Mount, Mat 5:48), and making us truly walk at liberty (Psa 119:32, Church of England Prayer Book Version). Christians are to aim at a higher standard of holiness than was generally understood under the law. The principle of love takes the place of the letter of the law, so that by the Spirit they are free from the yoke of sin, and free to obey by spontaneous instinct (Jam 2:8, Jam 2:10, Jam 2:12; Joh 8:31-36; Joh 15:14-15; compare Co1 7:22; Gal 5:1, Gal 5:13; Pe1 2:16). The law is thus not made void, but fulfilled. continueth therein--contrasted with "goeth his way," Jam 1:24, continues both looking into the mirror of God's word, and doing its precepts. doer of the work--rather, "a doer of work" [ALFORD], an actual worker. blessed in his deed--rather, "in his doing"; in the very doing there is blessedness (Psa 19:11).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty,.... By which is meant, not the moral law, but the Gospel; for only of that is the apostle speaking in the context: this is no other than the word of truth, with which God begets men of his own will; and is the ingrafted word which is able to save, and of which men should be doers, as well as hearers, Jam 1:18, and this is compared to a glass by the Apostle Paul, Co2 3:18, and the word here used for looking into it is the same word the Apostle Peter uses of the angels, who desired to look into the mysteries of the Gospel, Pe1 1:12 all which serve to strengthen this sense; now the Gospel is called a law; not that it is a law, strictly speaking, consisting precepts, and established and enforced by sanctions penalties; for it is a declaration of righteousness and salvation by Christ; a publication of peace and pardon by him; and a free promise of eternal life, through him; but as it is an instruction, or doctrine: the law with the Jews is called because it is teaching and instructive; and everything that is so is by them called by this name: hence we find the doctrine of the Messiah, which is no other than the Gospel, is in the Old Testament called the law of the Lord, and his law, Isa 2:2 and in the New Testament it is called the law, or doctrine of faith, Rom 3:27 and this doctrine is perfect, as in Psa 19:7, it being a perfect plan of truths, containing in it all truth, as it is in Jesus, even all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge; and because it is a revelation of things perfect; of the perfect righteousness of Christ, and of perfect justification by it, and of free and full pardon of sins through him, and of complete salvation by him; and because it directs to Christ, in whom perfection is: and it is a law or doctrine of liberty; , "that which is if liberty"; which has liberty for its subject, which treats of it, even of the liberty wherewith Christ makes his people free: the Gospel proclaims this liberty to captive souls; and is the word of truth, which makes them free, or is the means of freeing them from the slavery of sin, from the captivity of Satan, and from the bondage of the law; and is what gives souls freedom and boldness at the throne of grace; and is that which leads them into the liberty of grace here, and gives them a view and hope of the glorious liberty of the children of God hereafter. This doctrine is as a glass to look into; in which is beheld the glory of Christ's person and office, and grace; and though by the law is the knowledge of sin, yet a man never so fully and clearly discovers the sin that dwells in him, and the swarms of corruption which are in his heart, as when the light of the glorious Gospel shines into him, and when in it he beholds the beauty and glory of Jesus Christ; see Isa 6:5 and looking into this glass, or into this doctrine, is by faith, and with the eyes of the understanding, opened and enlightened by the Spirit of God; and the word here used signifies a looking wistly and intently, with great care and thought, and not in a slight and superficial manner; and such a looking is designed, as is attended with effect; such an one as transforms into the same image that is beheld, from glory to glory; and happy is the man that so looks into it. And continueth therein; is not moved away from the hope of the Gospel, nor carried about with divers and strange doctrines; but is established in the faith, stands fast in it, and abides by it; or continues looking into this glass, and to Christ, the author and finisher of faith, who is beheld in it; and keeps his eye upon it, and the object held forth in it; and constantly attends the ministration of it: he being not a forgetful hearer; but takes heed to the things he hears and sees, lest he should let them slip; and being conscious of the weakness of his memory, implores the divine Spirit to be his remembrancer, and bring to his mind, with fresh power and light, what he has heard: but a doer of the work; of the work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope, and of every work and ordinance the Gospel ministry points unto; doing and being subject to all in faith, from a principle of love, and with a view to the glory of God and Christ. This man shall be blessed in his deed; or "doing", and while he is doing; not that he is blessed for what he does, but "in" what he does; see Psa 19:11 he having, in hearing the word, and looking into it, and in submitting to every ordinance of the Gospel, the presence of God, the discoveries of his love, communion with Christ, and communication of grace from him by the Spirit; so that Wisdom's ways become ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace; see Psa 65:4, moreover, in all such a man does, he is prosperous and successful; in all he does he prospers: and so he is blessed in his deed, by God, whose blessing makes rich, both in spirituals and temporals: there seems to be an allusion to the blessed man in Psa 1:1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:25 law that sets you free: God’s word gives us new birth and salvation (1:18, 21) but demands that we do what it says (1:22-25).