James 3:16
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For where envying and strife is - Ζηλος και εριθεια· Zeal - fiery, inflammatory passion, and contention - altercations about the different points of the law, of no use for edification, such as those mentioned, Tit 3:9. The Jews were the most intolerant of all mankind; it was a maxim with them to kill those who would not conform to their law; and their salvation they believed to be impossible. This has been the spirit of Popery, and of the Romish Church at large; in vain do they attempt to deny it; they have written it in characters of blood and fire even in this country, (England), when they were possessed of political power. With them it is still an established maxim, that out of their Church there is no redemption; and fire and faggot have been in that Church legal means of conversion or extinction. In the short popish reign of Mary in this country, besides multitudes who suffered by fine, imprisonment, confiscation, etc., two hundred and seventy-seven were burnt alive, among whom were one archbishop, four bishops, twenty-one clergymen, eight lay gentlemen, eighty-four tradesmen, one hundred husbandmen, fifty-five women, and four children! O earth! thou hast not drunk their blood; but their ashes have been strewed on the face of the field.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
envying--So English Version translates the Greek, which usually means "zeal"; "emulation," in Rom 13:13. "The envious man stands in his own light. He thinks his candle cannot shine in the presence of another's sun. He aims directly at men, obliquely at God, who makes men to differ." strife--rivalry [ALFORD]. confusion--literally, "tumultuous anarchy": both in society (translated "commotions," Luk 21:9; "tumults," Co2 6:5), and in the individual mind; in contrast to the "peaceable" composure of true "wisdom," Jam 3:17. James does not honor such effects of this earthly wisdom with the name "fruit," as he does in the case of the wisdom from above. Jam 3:18; compare Gal 5:19-22, "works of the flesh . . . fruit of the Spirit."
John Gill Bible Commentary
For where envying and strife is,.... Where these are cherished in the heart, and especially where they break out into action, in families, neighbourhoods, states, or churches: there is confusion and every evil work; these occasion disturbances, raise uneasiness, make disquietude, and cause tumults whenever they appear; and put persons upon doing everything that is wicked, to gratify such insatiable lusts.
James 3:16
The Wisdom from Above
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
Sin Crouching at the Door
By Richard Owen Roberts2.2K1:04:04GEN 4:71SA 15:221SA 16:7ISA 1:18HEB 11:4JAS 3:16JAS 4:71JN 1:91JN 3:12This sermon delves into the urgent need to address the issue of sin as a barrier to revival, emphasizing the importance of mastering sin through Christ. It explores the story of Cain and Abel, highlighting the significance of faith and righteousness in offerings. The sermon challenges listeners to examine their countenance before God, emphasizing the need to conquer sin as it desires mastery over individuals. It calls for repentance and a deep reflection on personal sin and the corporate sins of churches, stressing the critical need for revival in the face of widespread carelessness towards sin.
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.
War on Earth - Part 2
By Derek Prince2.1K28:34DEU 18:9PSA 139:23AMO 5:14MAT 12:36MRK 9:24JHN 8:44EPH 6:12JAS 3:161PE 3:6This sermon delves into the topic of demons, distinguishing them from devils and exploring their potential origins as disembodied spirits. It recounts a personal experience of deliverance from various demons, highlighting the desperate craving of demons to occupy human bodies. The sermon also addresses how demons can enter individuals through various means like prenatal exposure, emotional shock, sinful acts, and idle words, emphasizing the importance of repentance and deliverance.
The Assemblies 1 cor.3;17
By J.M. Davies1.2K36:39AssemblyMAT 6:331CO 3:17EPH 5:271TI 3:15HEB 10:25JAS 3:161PE 2:9In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his experiences of being part of the people of God for 50 years in various countries. He emphasizes the importance of simplicity and purity in devotion to God. The sermon focuses on three well-known scriptures: 1 Corinthians 3:17, which warns against defiling the temple of God; James, which highlights the destructive nature of envy and strife; and 1 Corinthians 12:21, which speaks about the interdependence of different members in the body of Christ. The speaker urges believers to guard against division and strive for unity in the assembly.
05 New Wine in New Wineskins - Presenting the Church as a Virgin to Christ
By Zac Poonen1.0K1:00:38MAT 18:20ACT 2:421CO 12:12EPH 4:16PHP 2:1COL 3:14HEB 10:24JAS 3:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of building fellowship and unity within the church, highlighting the need for elders to lead with humility, service, and a focus on building strong relationships. It calls for repentance, fasting, and prayer to seek God's guidance and to present the church as a pure virgin to Jesus Christ. The message stresses the significance of functioning as a unified body of Christ, where every member plays a vital role in building up the church in love and fellowship.
Hidden Sin in the Heart
By Joshua Daniel63243:37EXO 20:1PRO 16:18ISA 58:1MAT 5:16MRK 4:17MRK 7:211CO 13:4JAS 3:161PE 5:5This sermon emphasizes the need for spiritual awakening and revival, highlighting the challenges faced by Christians in standing firm for the truth and enduring persecution. It addresses the importance of rooting out hidden sins, standing against societal moral decline, and serving with humility and love. The speaker also discusses the impact of negative thoughts, pride, and greed on individuals and society, calling for a return to foundational truths like the Ten Commandments and a focus on spreading the gospel despite challenges.
(Knowing God's Way) 10. Lessons From Cain and Abel
By Zac Poonen1GEN 4:7PRO 18:21GAL 6:7PHP 2:82TH 2:10HEB 11:4JAS 3:16JAS 4:61JN 1:7Zac Poonen preaches on the story of Cain and Abel, highlighting the importance of heart attitudes in worship and the acceptance of offerings by God. He emphasizes that God looks at the heart, not just outward actions, and that true worship comes from a broken and contrite heart of faith. The sermon delves into the dangers of pride, jealousy, and anger, drawing parallels between the story of Cain and Abel and the spiritual battles believers face today. It concludes with a powerful message on the consequences of ignoring God's warnings and the need for humility and self-judgment in the Christian walk.
Envy
By Thomas Brooks0GratitudeEnvyPSA 37:1PRO 14:30PRO 23:17ECC 4:4ROM 12:151CO 13:4GAL 5:26PHP 2:3JAS 3:161PE 2:1Thomas Brooks warns against the destructive nature of envy, describing it as a torment that gnaws at the soul and likening it to poison, a serpent, and a scourge. He emphasizes that envy is not only foolish but also a groundless wickedness that corrupts and destroys one's inner peace. Brooks urges listeners to flee from envy as they would from a deadly adversary, recognizing that being envious of others' blessings only leads to personal torment. He highlights the absurdity of turning the goodness of God towards others into our own suffering, urging a shift in perspective towards gratitude instead.
The Sweetness of the Lips
By A.B. Simpson0Spiritual HealthEmotional Well-beingPSA 34:14PRO 16:24ISA 26:3MAT 6:34ROM 12:22CO 10:5GAL 5:22PHP 4:7JAS 3:161PE 5:7A.B. Simpson emphasizes the profound connection between our spiritual and physical well-being, warning that even minor spiritual ailments can disrupt the flow of divine life within us. He highlights the detrimental effects of negative emotions such as worry, malice, and jealousy, which can drain our vitality more than physical exertion. Simpson advocates for cultivating a spirit of pleasantness, tranquility, and the peace of God, which are essential for maintaining health. He encourages listeners to guard against spiritual infections and to dedicate themselves to God's work to experience abundant life and strength.
Letters on Revival--No. 19.*
By Charles Finney0Overcoming SectarianismUnity in the ChurchJHN 17:21ROM 12:101CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:14JAS 3:161PE 3:81JN 4:20Charles Finney addresses the detrimental effects of growing sectarianism within the church, emphasizing that this division hinders the spirit of revival. He warns that ministers and Christians often fail to recognize their own sectarian attitudes, which lead to strife and prejudice rather than unity and love. Finney argues that true revival cannot flourish amidst such discord and urges the church to prioritize brotherly love and the conversion of souls over sectarian disputes. He calls for a self-examination among ministers and believers to ensure they are not contributing to this decline in spiritual fervor. Ultimately, he stresses the need for open-mindedness and a commitment to truth to restore the church's power and communion with God.
Pharisees Are Motivated by Jealousy and Hatred
By Zac Poonen0GEN 4:5PRO 14:30MAT 27:181CO 13:4JAS 3:16Zac Poonen preaches on the dangers of jealousy and how it can lead to destructive behaviors, using the Pharisees' jealousy of Jesus as a prime example. He highlights how jealousy can progress to hatred and even murder, drawing parallels to the story of Cain and Abel. Poonen emphasizes that jealousy often stems from a desire for popularity, recognition, or abilities that others possess, leading to criticism and a longing to see them fall.
It Happens All Too Often That the Constituting of a Prior
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PRO 16:181CO 1:10PHP 2:3JAS 3:16St. Benedict of Nursia warns against the dangers that arise in monasteries when the constituting of a Prior leads to pride, power struggles, and dissensions within the community. He highlights the absurdity of Prior being constituted by the same authority as the Abbot, leading to envy, quarrels, detraction, and disorder. St. Benedict emphasizes the spiritual danger faced by both the Abbot and the Prior when there is discord between them, ultimately leading to the ruin of those under their leadership.
The Martyrdom of Sts. Peter & Paul and Companions in Rome
By Clement of Rome0PRO 14:301CO 13:4HEB 12:1JAS 3:161PE 2:21Clement of Rome urges the congregation to look to the recent spiritual heroes of their own generation who endured persecution and martyrdom due to envy and jealousy, such as the apostles Peter and Paul. He emphasizes the importance of patience and endurance in the face of trials, highlighting the examples of those who suffered indignities and tortures yet remained steadfast in their faith. Clement warns against the destructive nature of envy and strife, which have caused great harm throughout history, even leading to the downfall of cities and nations.
Strife and Sedition
By Clement of Rome0GEN 3:6PRO 14:30ROM 1:21JAS 3:161JN 2:16Clement of Rome speaks about the downfall of honor and happiness due to envy, strife, and disobedience. He highlights how righteousness and peace have departed as people abandon the fear of God and follow their own wicked desires, leading to unrighteousness and envy that brought death into the world.
Early Martyr Testimony
By Clement of Rome0GEN 2:23PRO 14:30HEB 12:1JAS 3:16Clement of Rome preaches about the impact of envy on individuals and societies, highlighting the endurance and faith of those who faced persecution and torture. He emphasizes the examples set by holy men and a multitude of elect who persevered through challenges. Envy has led to the downfall of relationships, cities, and nations, illustrating the destructive power of this emotion.
The Fire of Envy
By John Henry Jowett0PRO 14:301CO 13:4GAL 5:26PHP 2:3JAS 3:16John Henry Jowett delivers a powerful message on the destructive nature of envy, comparing it to a deadly potion that distorts our moral and spiritual senses, leading to confusion and chaos. Envy blinds us to truth, making us see disorder as order and misinterpreting everything around us. Only God has the power to extinguish the destructive fire of envy, transforming it into goodwill and replacing confusion with order and beauty.
From the Finishing of the Temple by Herod to the Death of Alexander and Aristobulus
By Flavius Josephus0PSA 146:3PRO 15:33PRO 16:18PRO 22:1MAT 23:12ROM 12:18GAL 6:7PHP 2:3JAS 3:161PE 5:5Flavius Josephus preaches about King Herod's zealous administration, enactment of severe laws, and controversial punishments, leading to hatred and accusations within his family. Despite his magnificence in building cities, temples, and sponsoring grand festivals, Herod's harshness towards his sons and subjects reveals a complex nature driven by ambition and a desire for honor. The sermon also highlights the embassages sent to Caesar concerning the mistreatment of Jews in Asia and Libya by the Greeks, showcasing the struggles faced by the Jewish community in foreign lands.
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.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For where envying and strife is - Ζηλος και εριθεια· Zeal - fiery, inflammatory passion, and contention - altercations about the different points of the law, of no use for edification, such as those mentioned, Tit 3:9. The Jews were the most intolerant of all mankind; it was a maxim with them to kill those who would not conform to their law; and their salvation they believed to be impossible. This has been the spirit of Popery, and of the Romish Church at large; in vain do they attempt to deny it; they have written it in characters of blood and fire even in this country, (England), when they were possessed of political power. With them it is still an established maxim, that out of their Church there is no redemption; and fire and faggot have been in that Church legal means of conversion or extinction. In the short popish reign of Mary in this country, besides multitudes who suffered by fine, imprisonment, confiscation, etc., two hundred and seventy-seven were burnt alive, among whom were one archbishop, four bishops, twenty-one clergymen, eight lay gentlemen, eighty-four tradesmen, one hundred husbandmen, fifty-five women, and four children! O earth! thou hast not drunk their blood; but their ashes have been strewed on the face of the field.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
envying--So English Version translates the Greek, which usually means "zeal"; "emulation," in Rom 13:13. "The envious man stands in his own light. He thinks his candle cannot shine in the presence of another's sun. He aims directly at men, obliquely at God, who makes men to differ." strife--rivalry [ALFORD]. confusion--literally, "tumultuous anarchy": both in society (translated "commotions," Luk 21:9; "tumults," Co2 6:5), and in the individual mind; in contrast to the "peaceable" composure of true "wisdom," Jam 3:17. James does not honor such effects of this earthly wisdom with the name "fruit," as he does in the case of the wisdom from above. Jam 3:18; compare Gal 5:19-22, "works of the flesh . . . fruit of the Spirit."
John Gill Bible Commentary
For where envying and strife is,.... Where these are cherished in the heart, and especially where they break out into action, in families, neighbourhoods, states, or churches: there is confusion and every evil work; these occasion disturbances, raise uneasiness, make disquietude, and cause tumults whenever they appear; and put persons upon doing everything that is wicked, to gratify such insatiable lusts.