James 3:14
Verse
Context
The Wisdom from Above
13Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good conduct, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.14But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth.15Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If ye have bitter envying and strife - If ye be under the influence of an unkind, fierce, and contemptuous spirit, even while attempting or pretending to defend true religion, do not boast either of your exertions or success in silencing an adversary; ye have no religion, and no true wisdom, and to profess either is to lie against the truth. Let all writers on what is called polemic (fighting, warring) divinity lay this to heart. The pious Mr. Herbert gives excellent advice on this subject: - "Be calm in arguing, for fierceness makes Error a fault, and truth discourtesy; Why should I feel another man's mistakes More than his sickness or his poverty? In love I should; but anger is not love, Nor wisdom neither; therefore g-e-n-t-l-y m-o-v-e."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
if ye have--as is the case (this is implied in the Greek indicative). bitter-- Eph 4:31, "bitterness." envying--rather, "emulation," or literally, "zeal": kindly, generous emulation, or zeal, is not condemned, but that which is "bitter" [BENGEL]. strife--rather, "rivalry." in your hearts--from which flow your words and deeds, as from a fountain. glory not, and lie not against the truth--To boast of your wisdom is virtually a lying against the truth (the gospel), while your lives belie your glorying. Jam 3:15; Jam 1:18, "The word of truth." Rom 2:17, Rom 2:23, speaks similarly of the same contentious Jewish Christians.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts,.... Though these may not be expressed by words, or actions: envy at the happiness of others, whether at the external blessings of Providence, as riches and honours, or at the internal endowments of their minds, as their wisdom and knowledge, their parts and abilities, is a root of bitterness in the heart, which bears wormwood and gall, and produces bitter effects in the persons in whom it is; it embitters their minds against their neighbours and friends; it is rottenness in their bones, and slays and destroys those who are so silly as to be governed by it; and also in the persons the objects of it; for who can stand before it? and strife in the mind, or an intention to strive end quarrel with others, who are the objects of envy, is very sinful, and of pernicious consequence: and if these be fomented and cherished in the minds and breasts of men, though they may not outwardly show themselves, yet glory not; let not such boast of their being Gnostics, wise men, and endued with knowledge; they are far from deserving such a character; and such boasting is contrary to truth, yea, is lying against it, as follows: and lie not against the truth; for, for a man to assert himself to be a wise and knowing man, and yet cherishes bitterness in his heart, and quarrelling and contention in his mind, arising from envy, at the equal or superior knowledge of others, he lies both against the truth of God's word and his own conscience, which condemn such things as ignorance, folly, and madness.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:14 The truth is that wisdom cannot be associated with jealousy and selfish ambition. Only in humility can we receive God’s true word (1:18, 21).
James 3:14
The Wisdom from Above
13Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good conduct, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.14But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth.15Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
How to Be Free From Bitterness
By Jim Wilson2.1K39:07BitternessNUM 32:23PRO 28:13MAT 12:34EPH 4:31JAS 3:14JAS 3:161JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of bitterness and its negative impact on our lives. He refers to Ephesians 4:31, which instructs believers to get rid of all bitterness. The speaker shares personal examples of bitterness and how it can affect relationships. He also discusses the importance of forgiveness and being kind and compassionate towards others, just as Christ forgave us. The sermon emphasizes the need for repentance, restitution, and continued joy in our Christian walk.
Tongue Taming
By David P. Murray1.5K52:48TongueEXO 20:16JHN 1:14JAS 3:1JAS 3:6JAS 3:14JAS 3:17In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the power and impact of our words. He uses various illustrations to emphasize how something small, like a bit in a horse's mouth or a rudder on a ship, can have a significant influence. The speaker warns against the destructive potential of the tongue, comparing it to a wild animal or a polluted spring full of deadly poison. He highlights how our words can set ablaze the course of our lives, causing damage to relationships and reputations. The main message is that we need to be mindful of the words we speak and strive to use them for good rather than harm.
Is the Lord Really With You?
By Shane Idleman51839:261SA 16:14ACT 11:21ROM 12:2EPH 6:12PHP 2:31TH 5:191TI 4:1JAS 3:14JAS 4:7JAS 4:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of having the Lord's presence in our lives, drawing examples from Joshua, Samson, and Saul who faced defeat when the Lord wasn't with them. It highlights the need to avoid quenching and grieving the Holy Spirit, leading to a lack of intimacy with God. The message stresses the significance of going back to the basics of faith, surrender, and serving, and the necessity of unity in the church to prevent division caused by bitterness and negativity. The sermon also encourages militant prayer, discerning spirits, and yielding to God's wisdom to experience the power of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Is the Lord "Really" With You?
By Shane Idleman930:07Humility and UnityGod's Presence2CH 7:14PRO 3:34MAT 18:20ACT 11:21ROM 12:1EPH 4:3PHP 4:61TI 4:1JAS 3:141PE 5:6Shane Idleman challenges the congregation with the question, 'Is the Lord really with you?' by examining Acts 11:21, emphasizing that the presence of God is evident in our active involvement in His work, humility, and unity within the church. He warns against self-deception and the dangers of pride, urging believers to engage in militant prayer and to discern the spirits influencing their lives. Idleman highlights the importance of returning to the basics of faith, such as prayer and community, to experience the fullness of God's presence. He concludes by stressing that genuine worship and sacrifice are necessary for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully among us.
Sanctification in Shoe Leather (Is 'Death' the Savior?) Some Final Observations 1
By Robert Wurtz II01CO 13:1GAL 5:22PHP 3:12JAS 3:141JN 1:8Robert Wurtz II critiques the teachings of Total Sanctification, emphasizing the importance of repentance and living a holy life in alignment with God's Word. He warns against the dangers of striving for unattainable perfection and the negative impact of unbalanced doctrines on individuals and the Church. Wurtz calls for a focus on walking in victory through the Word of God and highlights the significance of love and humility in teachings post John Wesley's Entire Sanctification.
The Marked Man
By Paris Reidhead0ROM 16:17GAL 5:22EPH 4:1HEB 13:20JAS 3:14Paris Reidhead preaches on 'The Marked Man' based on Romans 16:17-20, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the marks of sin in our lives such as cowardice, blaming others, and resenting others' success, and the need to repent and surrender to Christ. He contrasts the marks of sin with the marks of the Savior, who bore the scars of our rebellion and sin out of infinite love. Reidhead highlights the transformation that occurs when one repents and receives Christ, leading to joy, peace, and the fruit of the Spirit. He urges believers to avoid those who cause division and offenses contrary to the teachings of Christ, emphasizing the unity and purity of the Church as the body of Christ.
Courtship #2
By Denny Kenaston0ROM 2:82CO 12:20GAL 5:20PHP 1:17PHP 2:3JAS 3:14JAS 3:16The preacher delves into the meaning of 'eritheia,' which signifies self-seeking, extreme selfishness, and rivalry, ultimately desiring to be number one at any cost. This selfish ambition is condemned in the Bible as it leads to disobedience, wrath, and indignation, contrary to the humility and selflessness expected of a child of God. 'Eritheia' evolved from a term for day laborer to describe unbridled, selfish ambition, often associated with personal and party rivalry, leading to disputes and dissensions. The preacher emphasizes the dangers of selfish ambition, which seeks personal gain at the expense of others and the truth, highlighting its prevalence in both secular and ecclesiastical politics.
Experiencing Revival Today - Part 3
By Charles Finney0RevivalThe Holy SpiritJAS 3:14Charles Finney emphasizes the critical role of maintaining a pure and humble spirit in revival efforts, warning that a bitter or fanatical attitude can hinder the work of the Holy Spirit. He recounts his own profound experience of receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit, which filled him with overwhelming love and joy, illustrating the transformative power of God's presence. Finney also shares a remarkable revival in a community known as 'Sodom,' where the Spirit moved powerfully, leading many to repentance and prayer. He advises preachers to focus on genuine love for souls and to maintain a close relationship with God, ensuring their ministry is rooted in prayer and sincerity. Ultimately, Finney calls for a renewed commitment to the Gospel and the necessity of the Holy Spirit in achieving true revival.
Some of the Mis Representations
By Job Scott0PSA 34:13PSA 101:7PRO 12:22PRO 19:9JHN 8:32EPH 4:25COL 3:92TI 2:15JAS 3:141PE 2:1In this sermon, the preacher exposes the misrepresentations contained in a pamphlet titled 'A Letter from a Friend in America to Luke Howard of Tottenham, near London.' The preacher highlights the anonymous nature of the pamphlet and its unfounded calumny, misrepresentation, and garbling of Luke Howard's character and arguments. The preacher refutes the claims made in the pamphlet, showcasing the inconsistencies, errors, and unfairness in the author's portrayal of Luke Howard's intentions and words. Additionally, the preacher addresses the doctrinal discrepancies and misinterpretations presented in the pamphlet, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the true teachings of Christianity and the Holy Scriptures.
They Are Attended With the Lamblike, Dovelike Spirit and Temper of Jesus Christ
By Jonathan Edwards0MAT 5:5LUK 9:551CO 13:4GAL 5:22COL 3:12JAS 3:14Jonathan Edwards preaches about the true nature of gracious affections, which differ from false affections by promoting a spirit of love, meekness, forgiveness, and mercy, resembling the temper of Jesus Christ. The Scriptures abundantly support this Christian spirit as the distinguishing disposition of genuine Christians, evident in qualities like meekness, mercy, and peacemaking. Christians are called to reflect Christ's character, being renewed in His image and bearing the same kind of fruit through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Sin in the Flesh
By Harmon A. Baldwin0JER 17:9MAT 15:19ROM 8:8EPH 6:6COL 3:2HEB 11:5JAS 3:14Harmon A. Baldwin delves into the misconception that sin lies in the flesh, akin to the old Manichaean heresy, emphasizing that the physical body itself is not sinful but rather the heart where sin resides, influencing our choices and affections. He clarifies that sin enters when the soul succumbs to fleshly desires, leading to bondage and a worldly mindset. Baldwin highlights the importance of faith in pleasing God, as stated in Hebrews 11:6, and the presence of the Spirit within believers, as mentioned in Romans 8:9, guiding them away from minding the flesh and towards spiritual growth.
Christians Do Not Walk This Way
By Paris Reidhead0MAT 10:34EPH 4:222TI 4:3JAS 3:14REV 21:8Paris Reidhead preaches on the importance of Christians not walking in the ways of the world, emphasizing the need for a genuine transformation of the heart and mind. He discusses the purpose of the prophet in declaring God's truth, the danger of willful ignorance and the necessity of speaking on sin and righteousness. Reidhead highlights the proof of true profession in Christ, focusing on the need for ongoing repentance and transformation, rather than relying on past experiences. He warns about the path to perdition, marked by sins such as immorality, lying, wrath, and bitterness, stressing the importance of living a life in accordance with God's Word to avoid eternal consequences.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
If ye have bitter envying and strife - If ye be under the influence of an unkind, fierce, and contemptuous spirit, even while attempting or pretending to defend true religion, do not boast either of your exertions or success in silencing an adversary; ye have no religion, and no true wisdom, and to profess either is to lie against the truth. Let all writers on what is called polemic (fighting, warring) divinity lay this to heart. The pious Mr. Herbert gives excellent advice on this subject: - "Be calm in arguing, for fierceness makes Error a fault, and truth discourtesy; Why should I feel another man's mistakes More than his sickness or his poverty? In love I should; but anger is not love, Nor wisdom neither; therefore g-e-n-t-l-y m-o-v-e."
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
if ye have--as is the case (this is implied in the Greek indicative). bitter-- Eph 4:31, "bitterness." envying--rather, "emulation," or literally, "zeal": kindly, generous emulation, or zeal, is not condemned, but that which is "bitter" [BENGEL]. strife--rather, "rivalry." in your hearts--from which flow your words and deeds, as from a fountain. glory not, and lie not against the truth--To boast of your wisdom is virtually a lying against the truth (the gospel), while your lives belie your glorying. Jam 3:15; Jam 1:18, "The word of truth." Rom 2:17, Rom 2:23, speaks similarly of the same contentious Jewish Christians.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts,.... Though these may not be expressed by words, or actions: envy at the happiness of others, whether at the external blessings of Providence, as riches and honours, or at the internal endowments of their minds, as their wisdom and knowledge, their parts and abilities, is a root of bitterness in the heart, which bears wormwood and gall, and produces bitter effects in the persons in whom it is; it embitters their minds against their neighbours and friends; it is rottenness in their bones, and slays and destroys those who are so silly as to be governed by it; and also in the persons the objects of it; for who can stand before it? and strife in the mind, or an intention to strive end quarrel with others, who are the objects of envy, is very sinful, and of pernicious consequence: and if these be fomented and cherished in the minds and breasts of men, though they may not outwardly show themselves, yet glory not; let not such boast of their being Gnostics, wise men, and endued with knowledge; they are far from deserving such a character; and such boasting is contrary to truth, yea, is lying against it, as follows: and lie not against the truth; for, for a man to assert himself to be a wise and knowing man, and yet cherishes bitterness in his heart, and quarrelling and contention in his mind, arising from envy, at the equal or superior knowledge of others, he lies both against the truth of God's word and his own conscience, which condemn such things as ignorance, folly, and madness.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:14 The truth is that wisdom cannot be associated with jealousy and selfish ambition. Only in humility can we receive God’s true word (1:18, 21).