James 3:15
Verse
Context
The Wisdom from Above
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.16For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
This wisdom descendeth not from above - God is not the author of it, because it is bitter - not meek. See at the end of this chapter. Is earthly - Having this life only in view. Sensual - Ψυχικη· Animal - having for its object the gratification of the passions and animal propensities. Devilish - Δαιμονιωδης· Demoniacal - inspired by demons, and maintained in the soul by their indwelling influence.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
This wisdom--in which ye "glory," as if ye were "wise" (Jam 3:13-14). descendeth not from above--literally, "is not one descending," &c.: "from the Father of lights" (true illumination and wisdom), Jam 1:17; through "the Spirit of truth," Joh 15:26. earthly--opposed to heavenly. Distinct from "earthy," Co1 15:47. Earthly is what is IN the earth; earthy, what is of the earth. sensual--literally, "animal-like": the wisdom of the "natural" (the same Greek) man, not born again of God; "not having the Spirit" (Jde 1:19). devilish--in its origin (from "hell," Jam 3:6; not from God, the Giver of true wisdom, Jam 1:5), and also in its character, which accords with its origin. Earthly, sensual, and devilish, answer to the three spiritual foes of man, the world, the flesh, and the devil.
John Gill Bible Commentary
This wisdom descendeth not from above,.... If it must be called wisdom, as it ought not; an envious, quarrelsome, and contentious spirit, does not deserve such a name; yet if any will call it so, or can think that a man of such a disposition is a man possessed of wisdom; it is such wisdom as does not come from above, from heaven, from the Father of lights, from Christ, in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, and from the spirit of wisdom and revelation: what the Jews say (o) of the wisdom of Egypt, may be said of this, that it is "wisdom from below", or inferior wisdom, as it follows: but is earthly, sensual, and devilish; it is "earthly", or of the earth, and springs from thence; and it is only conversant about earthly things, and is only suitable to earthly minds: it is sensual, or natural; what a natural man, one destitute of the Spirit of God, and without the knowledge of the things of the Spirit, may have; it is what is acquired by the mere strength of nature, and only relates to natural things; and is only agreeable to corrupt nature, or to a natural and unregenerate man: yea, it is devilish, or such as the devil himself has; and which comes from him, and being used, serves only his kingdom and interest. (o) Zohar in Gen. fol. 119. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:15 The wisdom that is earthly is not part of the good creation; it is the opposite of heavenly wisdom because it excludes God. It is unspiritual because it does not acknowledge or respond to God’s Spirit (1 Cor 2:14; Jude 1:19). It is demonic since it comes from the devil, the ultimate source of this destructive wisdom (Jas 3:6; 4:6; 1 Tim 4:1).
James 3:15
The Wisdom from Above
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.16For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Signs of the Times
By G. Campbell Morgan0The Ministry of the Holy SpiritMaterialism vs. SpiritualityISA 8:20JHN 14:26ROM 8:51CO 2:14GAL 5:22EPH 1:132TI 3:16HEB 4:12JAS 3:151JN 4:1G. Campbell Morgan addresses the contrasting movements in society regarding materialism and the search for spirituality, highlighting how materialistic views have permeated life outside the Church, leading many to live in practical atheism. He notes a significant revolt against materialism, evidenced by the rise of spiritualism and theosophy, yet warns against the extremes of denying matter altogether. Within the Church, a wave of rationalism threatens spiritual vitality, but there is also a revival of interest in the Holy Spirit's ministry, which is essential for true transformation. Morgan emphasizes the importance of grounding spiritual truths in Scripture to avoid the pitfalls of legalism and misinterpretation. He calls for a return to the Word of God as the ultimate guide to understanding the Spirit's work and the spiritual realm.
Epistle 154
By George Fox0Spiritual WarfareChastityISA 61:10HAB 1:3PHP 3:141TI 3:9JAS 1:27JAS 3:15JAS 4:12PE 2:141JN 2:16REV 19:9George Fox emphasizes the importance of living a chaste and pure life, warning against the dangers of lust and unchasteness that lead to strife and contention. He encourages believers to remain in the truth and light of God, which fosters unity and peace among the family of God. Fox highlights that the lusts of the flesh are contrary to spiritual fellowship and can lead one away from God, urging the faithful to keep their hearts and eyes pure. He calls for a life adorned with holiness, which is essential for true communion with Christ, the Lamb. Ultimately, Fox reminds his listeners that true peace and dominion come from living in accordance with God's spirit and power.
A Fully Soulish Man
By Watchman Nee0Spiritual DiscernmentUnity in the Church1CO 2:14JAS 3:15Watchman Nee discusses the concept of the 'soulish man,' emphasizing that such individuals, whether unregenerated or soulish believers, lack spiritual discernment and understanding of God's truths. He highlights that soulish wisdom, derived from human intellect, leads to divisions and conflicts within the church, contrasting it with spiritual wisdom that is pure and peaceable. Nee warns that many Christians rely on their mental faculties to grasp spiritual truths, which ultimately results in ignorance of the Word of God. He calls for believers to seek wisdom from the Holy Spirit rather than relying on their own understanding, as true spiritual insight fosters unity among believers. The sermon serves as a reminder of the importance of spiritual discernment in the life of a Christian.
The Soul and Deception
By T. Austin-Sparks0DeceptionSpiritual UnderstandingGEN 3:1ROM 8:201CO 2:142CO 4:4GAL 2:201TI 4:1JAS 3:15REV 12:9REV 20:3REV 20:10T. Austin-Sparks addresses the pervasive nature of deception in humanity, tracing its roots back to the Fall and emphasizing that enlightenment through civilization and education has only deepened this deception. He explains that man, by nature, is deceived and often unaware of his condition, likening it to a disease that distorts perception and understanding. The sermon highlights the role of the Deceiver, Satan, who exploits the soul's desires and independence from God, leading to a false existence and tragic disillusionment. Sparks warns that reliance on one's own intellect, emotions, or will can open the door to further deception, urging believers to submit to God's authority and the community of the Church to safeguard against these dangers. Ultimately, he emphasizes the necessity of spiritual understanding and the transformative power of the Cross in overcoming deception.
Epistle 50
By George Fox0DEU 13:11KI 22:22ISA 2:17JER 10:14JER 27:9JHN 4:24JHN 6:63JHN 14:6JHN 17:17JAS 3:15REV 16:13George Fox preaches about dwelling in purity and waiting for the power of God to preserve believers in that purity. He emphasizes knowing the seed of God in one another to overcome worldly wisdom and carnal knowledge, urging faith to stand against earthly nature and human pride. By dwelling in purity, believers can discern what is impure, have their minds guided by God, and confront their evil thoughts and desires. Fox warns against lusting, which veils the purity and leads to deception by dreamers, lying spirits, and false prophets. He encourages waiting on God in purity to receive His living nourishment for everlasting life.
Epistle 71
By George Fox0MAT 18:20JHN 14:61CO 15:45GAL 5:13HEB 10:34HEB 13:8JAS 3:151PE 2:22REV 22:2George Fox preaches about the importance of being faithful in the everlasting seed, Christ, who brings peace, blessings, and righteousness. He emphasizes the contrast between Adam in the fall, representing troubles and curse, and Christ Jesus, who never fell and is the way to endless life. Fox urges believers to live in Christ, love one another, and serve in the fear and wisdom of God, transcending the wisdom of the fall. He encourages keeping meetings in the name of Christ Jesus to experience true righteousness, holiness, and peace.
Epistle 187
By George Fox0GEN 3:1MAT 13:6JHN 4:24ROM 16:181CO 8:1EPH 2:6PHP 1:5COL 2:23HEB 10:25JAS 3:152PE 2:18JUD 1:16George Fox preaches about dwelling in the love of God together to be built up, warning against enmity, discord, and worldly wisdom that lead to disobedience and questioning. He emphasizes the importance of standing faithful and not falling into janglings and disputes, which are the work of the devil. Fox urges believers to keep their habitation in the truth of God, shining their lights and having oil in their lamps to grow in Christ Jesus and experience unity, life, peace, and salvation.
‘And to Be Desired to Make One wise.’
By Andrew Murray0Divine WisdomTemptationMAT 4:31CO 1:20JAS 3:15Andrew Murray emphasizes that humanity's spiritual nature is designed to know and enjoy God, yet it often seeks wisdom in the world instead. This pursuit leads to a reliance on worldly reasoning, which becomes an obstacle to experiencing God's love and fosters pride. He illustrates this struggle through the temptations faced by Jesus, highlighting the dangers of self-sufficiency, materialism, and pride. Ultimately, Murray calls for a return to seeking divine wisdom rather than worldly knowledge.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
This wisdom descendeth not from above - God is not the author of it, because it is bitter - not meek. See at the end of this chapter. Is earthly - Having this life only in view. Sensual - Ψυχικη· Animal - having for its object the gratification of the passions and animal propensities. Devilish - Δαιμονιωδης· Demoniacal - inspired by demons, and maintained in the soul by their indwelling influence.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
This wisdom--in which ye "glory," as if ye were "wise" (Jam 3:13-14). descendeth not from above--literally, "is not one descending," &c.: "from the Father of lights" (true illumination and wisdom), Jam 1:17; through "the Spirit of truth," Joh 15:26. earthly--opposed to heavenly. Distinct from "earthy," Co1 15:47. Earthly is what is IN the earth; earthy, what is of the earth. sensual--literally, "animal-like": the wisdom of the "natural" (the same Greek) man, not born again of God; "not having the Spirit" (Jde 1:19). devilish--in its origin (from "hell," Jam 3:6; not from God, the Giver of true wisdom, Jam 1:5), and also in its character, which accords with its origin. Earthly, sensual, and devilish, answer to the three spiritual foes of man, the world, the flesh, and the devil.
John Gill Bible Commentary
This wisdom descendeth not from above,.... If it must be called wisdom, as it ought not; an envious, quarrelsome, and contentious spirit, does not deserve such a name; yet if any will call it so, or can think that a man of such a disposition is a man possessed of wisdom; it is such wisdom as does not come from above, from heaven, from the Father of lights, from Christ, in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, and from the spirit of wisdom and revelation: what the Jews say (o) of the wisdom of Egypt, may be said of this, that it is "wisdom from below", or inferior wisdom, as it follows: but is earthly, sensual, and devilish; it is "earthly", or of the earth, and springs from thence; and it is only conversant about earthly things, and is only suitable to earthly minds: it is sensual, or natural; what a natural man, one destitute of the Spirit of God, and without the knowledge of the things of the Spirit, may have; it is what is acquired by the mere strength of nature, and only relates to natural things; and is only agreeable to corrupt nature, or to a natural and unregenerate man: yea, it is devilish, or such as the devil himself has; and which comes from him, and being used, serves only his kingdom and interest. (o) Zohar in Gen. fol. 119. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:15 The wisdom that is earthly is not part of the good creation; it is the opposite of heavenly wisdom because it excludes God. It is unspiritual because it does not acknowledge or respond to God’s Spirit (1 Cor 2:14; Jude 1:19). It is demonic since it comes from the devil, the ultimate source of this destructive wisdom (Jas 3:6; 4:6; 1 Tim 4:1).