James 1:8
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
A double-minded man - Ανηρ διψυχος· The man of two souls, who has one for earth, and another for heaven; who wishes to secure both worlds; he will not give up earth, and he is loth to let heaven go. This was a usual term among the Jews, to express the man who attempted to worship God, and yet retained the love of the creature. Rabbi Tanchum, fol. 84, on Deu 26:17, said: "Behold, the Scripture exhorts the Israelites, and tells them when they pray, לא יהיה להם שתי לבבות lo yiyeh lahem shetey lebaboth, that they should not have two hearts, one for the holy blessed God, and one for something else." A man of this character is continually distracted; he will neither let earth nor heaven go, and yet he can have but one. Perhaps St. James refers to those Jews who were endeavoring to incorporate the law with the Gospel, who were divided in their minds and affections, not willing to give up the Levitical rites, and yet unwilling to renounce the Gospel. Such persons could make no progress in Divine things.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
double-minded--literally, "double-souled," the one soul directed towards God, the other to something else. The Greek favors ALFORD'S translation, "He (the waverer, Jam 1:6) is a man double-minded, unstable," &c.; or better, BEZA'S. The words in this Jam 1:8 are in apposition with "that man," Jam 1:7; thus the "us," which is not in the original, will not need to be supplied, "A man double-minded, unstable in all his ways!" The word for "double-minded" is found here and in Jam 4:8, for the first time in Greek literature. It is not a hypocrite that is meant, but a fickle, "wavering" man, as the context shows. It is opposed to the single eye (Mat 6:22).
John Gill Bible Commentary
A double minded man,.... A man of two souls, or of a double heart, that speaks and asks with an heart, and an heart, as in Psa 12:2 who halts between two opinions, and is at an uncertainty what to do or say, and is undetermined what to ask for; or who is not sincere and upright in his requests, who asks for one thing, and means another, and asks amiss, and with an ill design; does not call upon God in truth, and in the sincerity of his soul; draws nigh to him with his mouth, and honours him with his lips, but his heart is far from him. Such an one is unstable in all his ways; he is confused in his mind; restless in his thoughts, unsettled in his designs and intentions; inconstant in his petitions; uncertain in his notions and opinion of things; and very variable in his actions, and especially in matters of religion; he is always changing, and never at a point, but at a continual uncertainty, both in a way of thinking and doing: he never continues long either in an opinion, or in a practice, but is ever shifting and moving.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:8 Their loyalty is divided between God and the world (literally They are double-minded): James might have created the Greek word used here. He emphasizes the need for confidence in God alone.
James 1:8
Rejoicing in Trials
7That man should not expect to receive anything from the Lord.8He is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Divided Heart
By C.H. Spurgeon17K41:19Spiritual UnityDividedDivided HeartPSA 86:11PRO 4:23HOS 10:2MAT 6:241CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3PHP 2:2JAS 1:81JN 1:8C.H. Spurgeon addresses the issue of a divided heart, emphasizing that such a condition leads to spiritual faultiness both individually and within the church. He warns that a divided heart is a grievous disease that affects the whole person, causing unhappiness, inconsistency, and hypocrisy. Spurgeon illustrates that this division not only hinders personal faith but also weakens the church's collective strength against evil. He calls for unity of heart in serving God, urging listeners to examine their own hearts and seek true devotion. Ultimately, he offers hope for those with broken hearts, inviting them to trust in Christ for healing and salvation.
Against the Flow
By Jim Cymbala4.5K26:41Following ChristDAN 3:25MAT 10:28ACT 7:59ACT 12:1ACT 14:22JAS 1:8REV 2:10In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of preaching in a public setting and facing disdain and mockery when he mentioned God and Jesus. He draws a parallel to the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who were thrown into the fire but were miraculously protected by God. The speaker emphasizes that not everyone who stands for Jesus will be delivered from suffering, as seen in the examples of Stephen and James who were martyred. However, he encourages believers to remain steadfast and not compromise their faith, reminding them that when they suffer for Christ, there will be a visitation of God in their lives.
(Through the Bible) Lamentations
By Chuck Smith2.0K1:17:09JER 4:7JER 10:10JER 10:20LAM 3:39JAS 1:8JAS 3:11REV 6:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of being double-minded and unstable in one's ways, as mentioned in the book of James. He emphasizes that God does not speak both good and evil, and encourages listeners to search their ways and turn back to the Lord instead of complaining about their punishment. The preacher also references a passage from Lamentations, describing the despair and hopelessness of the people of Jerusalem. He then transitions to the book of Revelation, specifically the events of the great tribulation, highlighting the importance of being in Christ Jesus as the only safe place. The sermon concludes with a reminder of God's faithfulness and a plea for the Lord to consider the suffering and affliction of the people.
(In the Word) 13 - Healing in the Old Covenant
By Milton Green1.6K1:22:54MAT 6:33MRK 6:5MRK 6:12LUK 10:21JAS 1:8JAS 4:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of dealing with sin before being released from captivity. He references Mark 6:3, where Jesus sends out his disciples as lambs among wolves, highlighting the innocence and simplicity of the disciples' approach. The speaker then uses a role-playing scenario to illustrate the need to confront old traditions and wrong teachings when receiving new revelations from God's Word. The sermon encourages listeners to prioritize the Word of God over the traditions of men and to follow the teachings in a sequential and ordered manner.
(The Church in the Last Days) 04 - Double Minded Adulteress
By Milton Green1.4K58:19LUK 4:18LUK 6:362CO 6:1JAS 1:8JAS 2:13JAS 4:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of following the Word of God rather than the traditions of men. He warns against judging others, as judgment will be returned to the one who judges. The speaker then moves on to discuss the need to cleanse ourselves from all impurities, referencing James 4. He concludes by highlighting the characteristics of those who have not been defiled and have kept themselves pure, emphasizing the importance of being blameless as the bride of Christ.
The Human Factor
By George Verwer1.1K42:46FleshMAT 10:38LUK 14:332CO 4:7EPH 5:18JAS 1:81JN 1:9REV 2:10In this sermon, the speaker shares personal anecdotes about his experiences hiking in the Grand Canyon and listening to cassette tapes. He then references 2 Corinthians 4:7, emphasizing the importance of recognizing that the power comes from God and not from ourselves. The speaker briefly mentions the topic of being filled with the Holy Spirit but acknowledges that it has been preached on before. He also reflects on his emotional response during his son's wedding speeches and highlights the significance of the human factor in balancing God's truth. The speaker mentions a book called "How Come It's Taking So Long To Get Better" by Lewis, which explores the idea of teaching our moods and not being swayed by external circumstances.
Channels of Love and the Catheterized Heart
By Dick Woodward83329:04LoveMAT 5:3JAS 1:8JAS 4:8REV 3:15In this sermon, the preacher discusses the Beatitudes and their significance in understanding the Sermon on the Mount. He explains that the Beatitudes can be seen as stair steps, with each one taking us closer to the top of the mountain. The preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding that God's love is unconditional and not based on performance. He shares his personal journey of seeking to know God in a deeper relationship and highlights the need for faith and diligently seeking God. The sermon also touches on the concept of the inner man and the recognition of one's own sinfulness.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 120
By Don Courville33426:42Radio Show1SA 16:7JER 48:11MAT 12:33JAS 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of words and their impact on our lives. He explains that our words can either justify or condemn us. He also highlights God's grace and willingness to give us second chances when we fail. The preacher encourages listeners to examine their hearts and the words that come out of their mouths, as they reveal their true inner being. Additionally, he briefly mentions the topic of bitterness and the importance of kindness and love in our interactions with others.
A Divided Allegiance
By Shane Idleman1649:40IdolatryDivided AllegianceDEU 30:19MAT 6:24LUK 9:23ROM 12:21CO 10:14GAL 5:17HEB 12:1JAS 1:81PE 2:111JN 2:15Shane Idleman emphasizes the critical nature of allegiance in the Christian life, illustrating that one cannot serve both God and the world. He warns against divided loyalties, using examples from scripture and personal anecdotes to highlight the dangers of idolatry and the necessity of full surrender to Christ. Idleman calls for a return to extreme Christianity, where believers actively flee from anything that draws them away from God, and he challenges the congregation to examine their priorities and commitments. He stresses that true joy and fulfillment come from a complete allegiance to Jesus, urging listeners to choose their side in the ongoing spiritual battle.
It Matters What You Think
By A.W. Tozer0WillpowerThoughtsPSA 112:7PRO 4:23ISA 26:3MAT 6:21ROM 12:22CO 10:5PHP 4:8COL 3:2JAS 1:81PE 1:13A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound connection between our thoughts and will, illustrating that while our thoughts influence our choices, our will can also direct our thoughts towards holiness. He references Philippians 4:8 to highlight the command to focus on virtuous and praiseworthy things, suggesting that we have the power to choose our meditations, which ultimately shapes our inner lives towards righteousness. Tozer argues that prioritizing godly thoughts and a commitment to God's will is more crucial than fluctuating spiritual feelings. He encourages believers to actively set their affections on heavenly matters, assuring that God will guide their paths. The true measure of a faithful person is one whose heart is steadfastly trusting in the Lord.
Letter 172.
By James Bourne0PSA 51:17ISA 6:5JAS 1:8JAS 4:71PE 5:8James Bourne, in a letter to his daughter H., emphasizes the importance of humility, deep spiritual reflection, and the ongoing spiritual battle believers face. He encourages his daughter to remember past struggles as a means of humbling her soul and to be vigilant against the subtle temptations of pride, self-will, and deceit. Bourne highlights the transformative power of God's grace in bringing sinners to repentance and restoration, ultimately leading to a profound trust in Christ as our Counselor and Friend.
How Long Halt Ye Between Two Opinions?
By A.B. Simpson0CommitmentWholeheartedness1KI 18:21MAT 6:24LUK 9:62GAL 2:20JAS 1:8A.B. Simpson emphasizes the ease and joy of living a fully consecrated life in his sermon 'How Long Halt Ye Between Two Opinions?'. He uses the analogy of a streetcar operator to illustrate that just as a streetcar cannot function properly with one wheel off the track, a Christian cannot thrive while divided in their commitment to Christ. Simpson points out that the undecided, or 'halting', individual leads a miserable existence, while those who wholeheartedly follow Christ experience true joy and admiration. He challenges listeners to fully commit to Jesus, urging them to recognize the benefits of a complete surrender to their Royal Master.
True Confession of Sin
By Erlo Stegen0Confession of SinTrue RepentanceEXO 9:27JOS 7:201SA 15:24PSA 51:17PRO 28:13MAT 6:24LUK 15:18HEB 12:16JAS 1:81JN 1:9Erlo Stegen emphasizes the necessity of true confession of sin, illustrating through six biblical examples that mere acknowledgment of wrongdoing is insufficient for forgiveness. He highlights Pharaoh's fear-driven confession, Balaam's double-mindedness, Saul's hypocritical excuses, Achan's late admission, Judas Iscariot's despair, and contrasts them with the genuine repentance of the prodigal son. The sermon calls for a heartfelt and sincere approach to confession, warning against superficiality and the dangers of insincere repentance. Ultimately, Stegen encourages believers to confess their sins with humility and truth to experience God's grace and mercy.
The Reward of the Righteous
By Clement of Rome0PRO 28:131CO 15:58HEB 12:11JAS 1:81PE 1:6Clement of Rome urges the congregation to heed the words of truth written to save themselves and others. He emphasizes the importance of repentance with a sincere heart to attain salvation and life. Clement encourages the listeners to set an example for the youth by diligently pursuing godliness and righteousness. He warns against the dangers of committing wicked deeds unknowingly due to double-mindedness and unbelief. The preacher motivates the audience to endure temporary suffering in this world by obeying God's commandments, promising the reward of eternal life and joy in the resurrection.
Elijah's Appeal to the Undecided
By C.H. Spurgeon0The Danger of IndecisionDeciding for God1KI 18:21MAT 6:24JAS 1:8REV 3:15C.H. Spurgeon addresses the undecided individuals in his sermon 'Elijah's Appeal to the Undecided,' urging them to make a definitive choice between serving Jehovah and Baal. He emphasizes the absurdity of trying to serve two masters and challenges the congregation to consider how long they will continue to waver in their faith. Spurgeon points out that true belief must be reflected in one's actions, and he calls for a commitment to God based on His sovereignty rather than personal gain. He warns that indecision will ultimately lead to judgment, and he implores the listeners to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance to make a firm decision for God.
The Habit of Holy Thought
By A.W. Tozer0Surrendering to GodThought LifePSA 19:14PRO 23:7ISA 26:3MAT 6:21ROM 12:22CO 10:5PHP 4:8COL 3:2JAS 1:81PE 1:13A.W. Tozer emphasizes the significance of our thoughts in shaping our spiritual condition, urging believers to examine their voluntary thoughts to understand their true selves. He illustrates the importance of surrendering our minds to God, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide our thoughts towards holiness. Tozer encourages the practice of mental prayer as a means to cultivate a habit of holy thought, suggesting that consistent communication with God can transform our thinking. He highlights the struggle many face with their thought life and calls for divine intervention to help develop a mindset aligned with God's will.
All These Men of War, That Could Keep Rank, Came
By F.B. Meyer0Collective Efforts in FaithUnity in the Church1CH 12:38MAT 6:22JAS 1:8F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of unity in the Church, drawing parallels from the unification of Israel under King David. He argues that true unity is achieved not through organizational efforts but by each individual heart enthroning Christ as King. Meyer warns against being double-minded, as true loyalty and service to God require a single-hearted devotion. He encourages believers to work together in harmony, as collective efforts yield greater results than individualistic pursuits. The sermon calls for Christians to maintain their ranks and support one another in the mission against the kingdom of Satan.
The Unreasonableness of Indetermination in Religion
By Jonathan Edwards0DEU 30:191KI 18:21PSA 32:9EZK 20:39LUK 14:28ACT 17:27ACT 26:282TI 3:7JAS 1:8REV 3:15Jonathan Edwards preaches about the unreasonableness of being indecisive in religion, using the example of Elijah challenging the people to choose between the Lord and Baal. He emphasizes the importance of making a firm decision in matters of faith, highlighting the folly of wavering between two opinions and the need to fully commit to following God. Edwards explores the various reasons why individuals remain unresolved in religion, from doubts about the truth of Scripture to indecision about embracing a life of holiness. He urges listeners to examine their hearts and make a definitive choice to either pursue God wholeheartedly or face the consequences of remaining undecided.
Joshua 24:15
By Chuck Smith0Family LeadershipChoiceDEU 30:19JOS 24:15PRO 22:6MAT 6:24ROM 6:161CO 10:21GAL 5:13EPH 6:4JAS 1:81PE 2:9Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of choice in the life of a believer, highlighting that God has given humanity the capacity to choose between serving Him or other influences. He explains that this choice is a profound responsibility, as it determines one's destiny and is influenced by both God and Satan. Smith urges listeners to recognize that everyone serves something, whether it be the true God or other 'gods' of pleasure and power. He concludes with a powerful declaration of commitment, encouraging families to serve the Lord together, emphasizing the father's role in guiding his household in faith.
Mr. Bernard Shaw
By Gilbert K. Chesterton0PRO 3:51CO 15:58PHP 4:13JAS 1:81PE 5:8Gilbert K. Chesterton delivers a sermon reflecting on the misunderstood figures of Mr. Chamberlain and Mr. Bernard Shaw, highlighting the advantage of being misunderstood and the power of consistency. He contrasts the orator's aim with that of other artists, emphasizing the importance of holding firm to one's beliefs. Chesterton explores Shaw's philosophy, pointing out the flaw in his rejection of moral ideals and his shift towards the religion of the Superman. He concludes by discussing the value of humility and the greatness of man, critiquing Shaw's pursuit of progress over humanity.
Worldliness a Mark of the Unconverted
By Horatius Bonar0WorldlinessTrue ConversionMAT 6:24JHN 3:3ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 6:14EPH 2:1COL 3:2JAS 1:82PE 2:171JN 2:15Horatius Bonar addresses the issue of worldliness among those who claim to be religious but are, in reality, only superficially connected to their faith. He emphasizes that such individuals are torn between their worldly desires and their religious obligations, leading to a hollow and ineffective spiritual life. Bonar warns that this half-hearted approach to religion is a delusion that cannot withstand the tests of time or eternity. He calls for a true conversion that involves a complete surrender to Christ, urging the worldly formalist to abandon false hopes and embrace the transformative love of Jesus. Ultimately, Bonar encourages a radical re-evaluation of one's faith to ensure it is genuine and rooted in Christ.
Wandering Thoughts
By John Wesley0Obedience to ChristWandering ThoughtsPSA 119:15ISA 26:3MAT 6:33ROM 12:22CO 10:5PHP 4:8COL 3:22TI 1:7JAS 1:81PE 5:8John Wesley addresses the challenge of wandering thoughts, emphasizing the need to bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. He discusses the various types of wandering thoughts, their sinful nature, and the importance of understanding their origins to avoid distress and spiritual harm. Wesley reassures believers that while they may struggle with thoughts that distract from God, these do not negate their love for Him. He encourages prayer for deliverance from sinful thoughts while acknowledging that some wandering thoughts are a natural consequence of our human condition. Ultimately, he calls for a focus on cultivating a heart that loves God fully, despite the inevitable distractions of life.
The Almost Christian. (Acts 26:28)
By George Whitefield0MAT 6:24MAT 22:37LUK 9:62ACT 26:28JAS 1:8George Whitefield preaches on the danger of being almost Christians, using the example of King Agrippa who was 'almost persuaded' to be a Christian. He emphasizes the need to wholeheartedly surrender to God, rather than wavering between God and the world, highlighting the ineffectiveness, danger, and ingratitude of being only partially committed to Christ. Whitefield urges the congregation to strive to be altogether Christians, giving their whole hearts to God and experiencing the true joy and peace that comes from complete devotion.
Make a Decision!
By Theodore Epp0Decision MakingFaithfulness to GodDEU 30:19JOS 24:151KI 18:21PSA 86:11MAT 6:24LUK 9:62ROM 12:2JAS 1:81JN 2:15REV 3:15Theodore Epp emphasizes the critical need for making a decisive choice in our faith, as illustrated by Elijah's challenge to the Israelites at Mount Carmel. He highlights how God influenced both Ahab and the people to gather, despite their initial contempt for Elijah, underscoring the importance of choosing between the one true God and false idols. Epp calls for a commitment to God, urging believers to reject a divided heart and to serve Him wholeheartedly, as we face modern temptations of materialism. The sermon reminds us that indecision is a choice against God, and we must actively choose whom we will serve.
"Single-Faced"
By A.W. Tozer0IntegrityAuthenticityPSA 51:6PRO 12:22MAT 5:8MAT 7:1LUK 12:22CO 1:12GAL 6:7EPH 4:25JAS 1:81PE 2:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of childlike candor in the Christian life, urging believers to embody honesty and integrity without duplicity or hypocrisy. He contrasts the simplicity and openness of children with the deceitfulness exemplified by Judas Iscariot, who lived a double life and ultimately betrayed Jesus. Tozer calls for a community of faith where individuals present a single, authentic face, free from the masks of pretense and dishonesty. He warns that having multiple faces is a sign of spiritual danger and invites believers to seek genuine transparency in their relationships with God and others.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
A double-minded man - Ανηρ διψυχος· The man of two souls, who has one for earth, and another for heaven; who wishes to secure both worlds; he will not give up earth, and he is loth to let heaven go. This was a usual term among the Jews, to express the man who attempted to worship God, and yet retained the love of the creature. Rabbi Tanchum, fol. 84, on Deu 26:17, said: "Behold, the Scripture exhorts the Israelites, and tells them when they pray, לא יהיה להם שתי לבבות lo yiyeh lahem shetey lebaboth, that they should not have two hearts, one for the holy blessed God, and one for something else." A man of this character is continually distracted; he will neither let earth nor heaven go, and yet he can have but one. Perhaps St. James refers to those Jews who were endeavoring to incorporate the law with the Gospel, who were divided in their minds and affections, not willing to give up the Levitical rites, and yet unwilling to renounce the Gospel. Such persons could make no progress in Divine things.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
double-minded--literally, "double-souled," the one soul directed towards God, the other to something else. The Greek favors ALFORD'S translation, "He (the waverer, Jam 1:6) is a man double-minded, unstable," &c.; or better, BEZA'S. The words in this Jam 1:8 are in apposition with "that man," Jam 1:7; thus the "us," which is not in the original, will not need to be supplied, "A man double-minded, unstable in all his ways!" The word for "double-minded" is found here and in Jam 4:8, for the first time in Greek literature. It is not a hypocrite that is meant, but a fickle, "wavering" man, as the context shows. It is opposed to the single eye (Mat 6:22).
John Gill Bible Commentary
A double minded man,.... A man of two souls, or of a double heart, that speaks and asks with an heart, and an heart, as in Psa 12:2 who halts between two opinions, and is at an uncertainty what to do or say, and is undetermined what to ask for; or who is not sincere and upright in his requests, who asks for one thing, and means another, and asks amiss, and with an ill design; does not call upon God in truth, and in the sincerity of his soul; draws nigh to him with his mouth, and honours him with his lips, but his heart is far from him. Such an one is unstable in all his ways; he is confused in his mind; restless in his thoughts, unsettled in his designs and intentions; inconstant in his petitions; uncertain in his notions and opinion of things; and very variable in his actions, and especially in matters of religion; he is always changing, and never at a point, but at a continual uncertainty, both in a way of thinking and doing: he never continues long either in an opinion, or in a practice, but is ever shifting and moving.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:8 Their loyalty is divided between God and the world (literally They are double-minded): James might have created the Greek word used here. He emphasizes the need for confidence in God alone.