James 3:17
Verse
Context
The Wisdom from Above
16For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice.17But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere. 18Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The wisdom that is from above - The pure religion of the Lord Jesus, bought by his blood, and infused by his Spirit. See the rabbinical meaning of this phrase at the end of this chapter. Is first pure - Ἁγνη· Chaste, holy, and clean. Peaceable - Ειρηνικη· Living in peace with others, and promoting peace among men. Gentle - Επιεικης· Meek, modest, of an equal mind, taking every thing in good part, and putting the best construction upon all the actions of others. Easy to be entreated - Ευπειθης· Not stubborn nor obstinate; of a yielding disposition in all indifferent things; obsequious, docile. Full of mercy - Ready to pass by a transgression, and to grant forgiveness to those who offend, and performing every possible act of kindness. Good fruits - Each temper and disposition producing fruits suited to and descriptive of its nature. Without partiality - Αδιακριτος· Without making a difference - rendering to every man his due; and being never swayed by self-interest, worldly honor, or the fear of man; knowing no man after the flesh. One of the Itala has it irreprehensible. Without hypocrisy - Ανυποκριτος· Without dissimulation; without pretending to be what it is not; acting always in its own character; never working under a mask. Seeking nothing but God's glory, and using no other means to attain it than those of his own prescribing.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
first pure--literally, "chaste," "sanctified": pure from all that is "earthly, sensual (animal), devilish" (Jam 3:15). This is put, "first of all," before "peaceable" because there is an unholy peace with the world which makes no distinction between clean and unclean. Compare "undefiled" and "unspotted from the world," Jam 1:27; Jam 4:4, Jam 4:8, "purify . . . hearts"; Pe1 1:22, "purified . . . souls" (the same Greek). Ministers must not preach before a purifying change of heart, "Peace," where there is no peace. Seven (the perfect number) characteristic peculiarities of true wisdom are enumerated. Purity or sanctity is put first because it has respect both to God and to ourselves; the six that follow regard our fellow men. Our first concern is to have in ourselves sanctity; our second, to be at peace with men. gentle--"forbearing"; making allowances for others; lenient towards neighbors, as to the DUTIES they owe us. easy to be entreated--literally, "easily persuaded," tractable; not harsh as to a neighbor's FAULTS. full of mercy--as to a neighbor's MISERIES. good fruits--contrasted with "every evil work," Jam 3:16. without partiality--recurring to the warning against partial "respect to persons," Jam 2:1, Jam 2:4, Jam 2:9. ALFORD translates as the Greek is translated, Jam 1:6, "wavering," "without doubting." But thus there would be an epithet referring to one's self inserted amidst those referring to one's conduct towards others. English Version is therefore better. without hypocrisy--Not as ALFORD explains from Jam 1:22, Jam 1:26, "Without deceiving yourselves" with the name without the reality of religion. For it must refer, like the rest of the six epithets, to our relations to others; our peaceableness and mercy towards others must be "without dissimulation."
John Gill Bible Commentary
But the wisdom that is from above,.... Which has God for its author; which is infused into the soul by the Spirit of God; and leads into the knowledge of things that are above, of heavenly things; and which only is true wisdom and knowledge; and those who are possessed of it are the only true Gnostics; for which; see Gill on Jam 3:13 namely, the grace of God: this wisdom is first pure; it is pure in itself, it is free from everything that is earthly, carnal, or sensual, or devilish; it produces purity of heart, of life, and conversation; and is the means of keeping persons pure and chaste, and free from impure lusts, lusts of uncleanness, pride, envy, wrath, &c. which prevail in carnal and unregenerate men: and then peaceable; it inclines and engages those who have it to live in peace with the saints, and even with all men; with those of their own household, with their neighbours, yea, with their enemies: it is also "gentle"; or makes men gentle, moderate, and humane, so as that they bear, and forbear; they bear with the infirmities of the weak; readily forgive injuries done them; do not rigidly exact what is their due, but recede from their just right for the sake of peace and love; and do not bear hard upon others for their failings, but cover them with the mantle of love: and it is easy to be treated; or those who have it readily yield to the superior judgments and stronger reasonings of others; and are easily induced to hope and believe all things, and entertain a good opinion of men, and their conduct; and are far from being proud, arrogant, obstinate, and overbearing: full of mercy and good fruits; of compassion and beneficence to the poor; feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the widows and fatherless in their affliction; and doing all other good works and duties, both with respect to God and man, as fruits of grace, and of the Spirit: without partiality: to one another; or making a difference between them; showing no respect to persons; bestowing upon the poor and indigent, without any distinction: and without hypocrisy; either with respect to God or man; not making show of that which they have not, or do not intend.
James 3:17
The Wisdom from Above
16For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice.17But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere. 18Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
7) Wisdom for Sisters (Kannada)
By Annie Poonen2.2K1:09:31PRO 9:1MAT 5:8MAT 7:24MAT 11:29MAT 18:21JAS 1:5JAS 3:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking divine wisdom for our earthly lives, distinguishing between knowledge and wisdom. It highlights the need for obedience to God's word as the foundation of true wisdom, encouraging even those who cannot read to be wise through obedience. The sermon delves into the qualities of a wise woman, focusing on purity, peace, gentleness, mercy, and wholeheartedness, all rooted in God's wisdom. It concludes with a prayer for God's grace to be godly women who build their homes and the church.
Acquiring a Heart of Wisdom
By Zac Poonen1.9K56:16PSA 90:12ISA 11:2MAT 25:4LUK 2:52JAS 3:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of acquiring wisdom in our lives, drawing insights from Psalms 90 and the life of Jesus. It highlights the need to submit to imperfect authority, resist sin, meditate on God's word, and seek wisdom from above, which is pure, peaceable, and full of mercy.
(Luke) 01a - Introduction Cont.
By Ed Miller1.5K1:07:09LukeLUK 4:21LUK 6:47LUK 7:37LUK 15:11LUK 16:19LUK 23:39JAS 3:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the Gospel of Luke and its portrayal of Jesus reaching out to the needy, humble, and broken. The sermon highlights the impact of a movie based on the Gospel of Luke, called "Jesus," which has been used as a powerful tool for evangelism. The speaker emphasizes that the film's success is not only due to the Holy Spirit's anointing but also because it accurately presents the Gospel of Luke. The sermon also addresses the concept of God's inspiration, explaining that while the writers of the Gospel were real people with their own personalities and research, they were guided by God from heaven.
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.
Maintain the Connection - Part 4
By Hans Peter Royer1.4K46:111SA 3:1MAT 6:33HEB 8:8JAS 3:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses how to determine if a message is from God. They emphasize that the content of a word from God will always align with the general revelation found in the Scriptures. The speaker shares an example of a girl who became pregnant after sleeping with a non-Christian man, highlighting the importance of aligning our actions with biblical teachings. They also discuss how the Holy Spirit often speaks to us while we pray, emphasizing the significance of prayer in hearing God's voice. Additionally, the speaker mentions that God can speak to us through circumstances, both big and small, and encourages listeners to seek God's guidance when something doesn't feel right.
(Proverbs) ch.28:19 - 29:17
By Zac Poonen1.4K1:00:45PRO 28:19MIC 3:52TI 2:6JAS 2:9JAS 3:17JAS 5:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of discipline in our daily lives, even in our interactions with others. He highlights Proverbs 28:20, which warns against the pursuit of wealth and the potential punishment it brings. The blessings mentioned in the verse are seen as earthly provisions that God provides when we prioritize His kingdom. However, when these blessings exceed our needs, they can become a curse. The speaker also discusses the contrast between a hard-working farmer who has plenty to eat and those who waste their time and end up in poverty. This concept is applied spiritually, urging believers to diligently work on their own salvation. The pursuit of wealth beyond one's needs is seen as a temptation and trap set by the devil, leading to foolish and harmful desires that can ruin and destroy individuals and their families. The speaker encourages listeners to learn from the discipline of great men of God who have effectively managed their time and avoided wasting it on useless things.
(Where Is the Church Going) 6. One Day We Will Give an Account to God
By Miki Hardy1.2K1:07:06Judgment SeatISA 30:10JER 23:16JER 23:31MAT 5:181TI 6:3JAS 3:172PE 2:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of staying true to the gospel of Jesus Christ and not getting involved in messages that have no sense or are meant to entertain. He encourages Christians to keep sound doctrine and walk a holy life, fulfilling the requirements of the law. The preacher highlights the commandment of love as the foundation of Christian life, explaining that love is demonstrated through actions that resemble Jesus. He also references Jeremiah 23:1 to warn against shepherds who scatter and neglect the sheep, emphasizing the need for preachers and Christians to take their responsibility seriously as they will be held accountable by the Lord.
Sisters Blessing the Body of Christ
By Annie Poonen1.1K51:21PRO 14:1PRO 31:26LUK 10:42COL 3:18JAS 3:171PE 3:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of building the body of Christ as women in the church. It discusses the significance of having a meek and quiet spirit, forgiving others, being a Mary in a martyr world, and seeking godly wisdom to build godly homes that contribute to a godly church. The speaker shares personal experiences and insights on prayer life, obedience, and surrendering all aspects of life to the Lord.
God's Mercies - Part 1
By Joshua Daniel1.1K09:38LEV 19:34DEU 10:16ROM 2:281TI 2:12JAS 3:171PE 3:4This sermon emphasizes the importance of maintaining God's wisdom and teachings, highlighting the need to circumcise our hearts and words to align with His ways. It addresses the role of women in prophecy and church administration, cautioning against women usurping authority over men. The message stresses the value of meekness and quiet spirit in women, contrasting it with emotional outbursts. It calls for love towards strangers and breaking down barriers of discrimination and exclusivity.
Eternal House of Wisdom
By Steve Gallagher8001:01:18PRO 3:13PRO 9:10PRO 24:3MAT 7:24MAT 23:38LUK 12:20LUK 19:9JAS 3:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of building an eternal house of wisdom by submitting to God's authority, word, dealings in life, and living out wisdom. It contrasts the rewards of following God's wisdom, which are eternal, deep, and meaningful, with the superficial and empty rewards of following worldly desires. The speaker urges the audience to make wise decisions, trust in God's blessings, and choose the path of righteousness over immediate gratification.
The Spirit of Anti Christ
By Erlo Stegen7751:04:43PRO 2:6MAT 7:151CO 3:182CO 11:141TH 5:212TH 2:3JAS 3:171JN 2:181JN 4:1This sermon delves into the topic of the Antichrist as mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 2, warning against deception and the spirit of lawlessness already at work. It emphasizes the need for discernment, urging listeners to test all teachings against the truth of the Bible. The story of a woman deceived on a train serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of seeking wisdom and not blindly following false knowledge. Additionally, it stresses the significance of personal transformation before attempting to influence others, drawing parallels to a priest's realization of starting change from within.
Religious Fanaticism
By Ian Murray77154:07JAS 3:13JAS 3:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the dangers of fanaticism in the church. Fanaticism is characterized by an exaggerated and distorted focus on one biblical truth, often severed from other truths. It can occur in different cultures and centuries, but the characteristics remain similar. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being held under the control and understanding of scripture, guarding against the excitement of the imagination in times of revival.
Filled With the Spirit and With Mercy
By Zac Poonen7241:03:41LUK 6:38JHN 3:3JHN 7:38ACT 2:4ROM 8:91CO 12:28PHP 2:25JAS 3:172PE 1:9This sermon emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit, starting from the foundation of being born again through the Holy Spirit. It delves into the distinction between being born of the Spirit and being filled with the Holy Spirit, highlighting the need for continuous spiritual growth and capacity expansion. The sermon stresses the significance of mercy, kindness, and forgiveness as key aspects of a Spirit-filled life, leading to personal healing and spiritual blessings. It encourages believers to be merciful, kind, and generous, reflecting God's mercy and love to others.
Dangers That New Covenant Christians Face
By Zac Poonen5821:19:22ROM 7:18JAS 3:171JN 3:2This sermon emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God and avoiding unrealistic standards, such as pretending to be more spiritual than one truly is or trying to love everyone equally. It encourages honesty, humility, and learning from Jesus as the ultimate example. The sermon also addresses the dangers of discouragement, partiality, and self-condemnation, urging listeners to trust in God's transformative power and to never give up on their journey towards becoming more like Christ.
Christian Cannibalism - a Critical Spirit
By Don Courville57743:05JOB 42:7PSA 60:12MAT 11:281CO 15:57EPH 3:16EPH 4:291TH 2:18JAS 3:17JAS 4:111PE 2:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and avoiding criticalness towards others, God, and His ways. It warns against being consumed by distractions and possessions that hinder spiritual growth, using the analogy of a missionary carrying a growing monkey that eventually becomes a burden. The speaker urges listeners to be critical of themselves, manage their time wisely, and prioritize relationships, highlighting the need for discernment, humility, and gratitude in all aspects of life.
How to Restore a Wounded Relationship, Part 5
By Mike Bickle1846:42RestorationHealthy RelationshipsPSA 16:3PRO 15:1PRO 19:13PRO 21:19MAT 5:44MAT 7:1ROM 12:18GAL 6:1EPH 4:32JAS 3:17Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of cultivating healthy relationships, not just repairing broken ones, by focusing on the principles outlined in James 3:17. He highlights eight key responses that contribute to building godly relationships, including being pure, peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy, and more. Bickle stresses that while we have a responsibility to foster peace, not all relationships can be restored, as healing requires cooperation from both parties. He encourages believers to approach conflicts with a spirit of humility and trust in God's timing for resolution. Ultimately, the tone and spirit of our communication are crucial for nurturing and healing relationships.
Wise as Serpents, Harmless as Doves
By Thomas Watson1PRO 4:7PRO 19:11MAT 10:16LUK 4:29PHP 4:41TI 6:17JAS 3:171PE 5:5Thomas Watson preaches about the importance of being wise as serpents and harmless as doves, emphasizing the need for Christians to unite prudence and holiness in their lives. He highlights the Apostles' commission, the foretold dangers they faced, and the instructions given by Christ. Watson explains that Christians must be both wise and innocent, showing examples from biblical figures like Moses, Daniel, and Paul who embodied this balance of wisdom and innocence. He urges believers to be prudent in their actions, yet maintain their integrity, avoiding sin while navigating through challenges and dangers.
The Seven Pillars of Wisdom
By Zac Poonen1PRO 9:6PRO 13:10ECC 4:13MAT 5:8LUK 10:5ROM 14:171CO 15:58EPH 5:21JAS 3:17Zac Poonen preaches on the clear contrast between the Bride and the Harlot as depicted in Proverbs chapter 9. The Bride invites the foolish to turn from sin and learn the fear of the Lord, while the Harlot leads many to spiritual death. The true church, symbolized by the Bride of Christ, is built on seven pillars of wisdom listed in James 3:17, including purity, peaceableness, consideration, willingness to yield, mercy, steadfastness, and freedom from hypocrisy.
The Message of James
By G. Campbell Morgan0Faith in ActionThe Power of FaithMAT 5:20MAT 5:48GAL 2:20HEB 10:38JAS 1:2JAS 1:12JAS 2:1JAS 3:17JAS 4:7G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes in 'The Message of James' that true faith in God manifests itself through a life aligned with His will, producing patience in trials, steadfastness against temptation, and love in religious practice. He contrasts this with a life that denies faith, characterized by strife, respect of persons, and unbridled speech. Morgan calls believers to prove their faith through action and to perfect their patience, highlighting that the life of faith is both perilous and powerful, challenging worldly norms and overcoming spiritual opposition. He concludes that faith fosters unity and love within the church, eliminating class distinctions and strife.
My Clothes Got in the Way!
By David Wilkerson0MercyCompassionPRO 21:21MIC 6:8MAT 5:7LUK 6:36ROM 15:1GAL 6:1EPH 4:32COL 3:12JAS 3:171PE 3:8David Wilkerson shares a transformative experience from his early evangelistic days, where he confronted a group of young Christian hippies about their appearance, only to be told that his attire obstructed their view of Jesus. This encounter taught him that while purity and sanctification are important, they must be accompanied by mercy, grace, and kindness. He reflects on the misconception that merely abstaining from sin is sufficient, emphasizing that true Christian living involves embodying the qualities of gentleness and compassion as outlined in James 3:17. Wilkerson's lesson serves as a reminder to prioritize love and understanding over judgment.
Epistle 367
By George Fox0LeadershipRighteousnessEXO 23:6LEV 19:15DEU 1:16DEU 16:182SA 23:3PRO 28:15ZEC 8:16MAT 5:8MAT 5:20JHN 8:44ROM 13:3COL 3:5HEB 12:14JAS 3:17George Fox emphasizes the necessity of living a life of righteousness and holiness, as it is essential for seeing God and maintaining peace within a community. He warns that unholiness leads to a lack of divine vision and peace, urging his listeners to embody truth, justice, and equity in their actions. Fox stresses the importance of just leadership, reminding that rulers must be righteous to guide their people effectively. He calls for a commitment to God's spirit to overcome wickedness and to ensure that all judgments are fair and just. Ultimately, he desires that all may act in humility and in the power of Christ, reflecting God's glory in their lives.
Epistle 373
By George Fox0Unity in ChristCommitment to TruthPSA 51:6MAT 5:37JHN 4:241CO 10:311CO 15:47EPH 4:12PHP 3:20JAS 3:17George Fox emphasizes the importance of holding a Yearly Meeting for Friends to gather in the spirit of the Lord, fostering unity, peace, and the growth of truth among them. He encourages the community to resolve differences and strengthen their bonds through shared worship and fellowship, highlighting the blessings that come from such gatherings. Fox also urges the Friends to uphold their commitment to truth by addressing the issue of swearing and oaths, advocating for a return to their original principles. He expresses his desire for the community to live in godliness and to glorify God in all their actions, while also encouraging them to be examples of true Christianity. Ultimately, Fox calls for a collective effort to grow in love and truth, ensuring that their conversations and lives reflect their faith.
Epistle 101
By George Fox0Victory in ChristSpiritual BirthGEN 1:27GEN 25:23JER 9:3GAL 4:29EPH 4:30JAS 3:17REV 17:14George Fox emphasizes the importance of living in the everlasting seed of God, which embodies wisdom, life, and dominion over the fallen nature. He encourages believers to offer themselves to God through the suffering seed, aligning with the nature of the Lamb who must achieve victory over the rough nature that arose from the fall. Fox highlights the distinction between the two births: the flesh and the spirit, urging the faithful to embrace the spiritual birth that leads to eternal life. He calls for vigilance against grieving the Spirit and encourages believers to be a blessing and a good savor in the world by standing firm in truth.
Isaiah 9:2
By Chuck Smith0Jesus as CounselorSeeking Divine GuidancePRO 3:5ISA 9:6MAT 6:33MAT 11:28JHN 1:1JHN 14:27HEB 7:25JAS 3:17REV 3:19REV 19:16Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of Jesus as the 'Wonderful Counselor,' highlighting the contrast between worldly counsel and divine wisdom. He reflects on Jesus' pre-existence, His current role as intercessor, and His future reign, underscoring that true counsel comes from Him alone. Smith warns against the misleading advice of the ungodly and encourages believers to seek God's guidance in their lives. He concludes by affirming Jesus' identity as the Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace, urging listeners to recognize the fullness of His name and what it means for their lives.
Seek God for Wisdom
By Zac Poonen0Divine WisdomBuilding the ChurchPRO 2:4PRO 2:6ECC 4:13MAT 5:8MAT 13:44ROM 14:17PHP 3:8JAS 1:5JAS 3:17Zac Poonen emphasizes the necessity of seeking Divine wisdom with the same fervor as one would seek hidden treasure, as highlighted in Proverbs 2:4 and Matthew 13:44. He explains that true wisdom is characterized by purity of heart, gentleness, and a willingness to yield, which are essential for building the true church of Christ. Poonen stresses that a wise Christian embodies mercy, patience, and fairness, and is free from quarrelsome behavior, reflecting the righteousness and peace of the kingdom of God. He encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, reminding them that it is available to those who ask in faith, as stated in James 1:5. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep inner life that prioritizes God's approval over human judgment.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The wisdom that is from above - The pure religion of the Lord Jesus, bought by his blood, and infused by his Spirit. See the rabbinical meaning of this phrase at the end of this chapter. Is first pure - Ἁγνη· Chaste, holy, and clean. Peaceable - Ειρηνικη· Living in peace with others, and promoting peace among men. Gentle - Επιεικης· Meek, modest, of an equal mind, taking every thing in good part, and putting the best construction upon all the actions of others. Easy to be entreated - Ευπειθης· Not stubborn nor obstinate; of a yielding disposition in all indifferent things; obsequious, docile. Full of mercy - Ready to pass by a transgression, and to grant forgiveness to those who offend, and performing every possible act of kindness. Good fruits - Each temper and disposition producing fruits suited to and descriptive of its nature. Without partiality - Αδιακριτος· Without making a difference - rendering to every man his due; and being never swayed by self-interest, worldly honor, or the fear of man; knowing no man after the flesh. One of the Itala has it irreprehensible. Without hypocrisy - Ανυποκριτος· Without dissimulation; without pretending to be what it is not; acting always in its own character; never working under a mask. Seeking nothing but God's glory, and using no other means to attain it than those of his own prescribing.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
first pure--literally, "chaste," "sanctified": pure from all that is "earthly, sensual (animal), devilish" (Jam 3:15). This is put, "first of all," before "peaceable" because there is an unholy peace with the world which makes no distinction between clean and unclean. Compare "undefiled" and "unspotted from the world," Jam 1:27; Jam 4:4, Jam 4:8, "purify . . . hearts"; Pe1 1:22, "purified . . . souls" (the same Greek). Ministers must not preach before a purifying change of heart, "Peace," where there is no peace. Seven (the perfect number) characteristic peculiarities of true wisdom are enumerated. Purity or sanctity is put first because it has respect both to God and to ourselves; the six that follow regard our fellow men. Our first concern is to have in ourselves sanctity; our second, to be at peace with men. gentle--"forbearing"; making allowances for others; lenient towards neighbors, as to the DUTIES they owe us. easy to be entreated--literally, "easily persuaded," tractable; not harsh as to a neighbor's FAULTS. full of mercy--as to a neighbor's MISERIES. good fruits--contrasted with "every evil work," Jam 3:16. without partiality--recurring to the warning against partial "respect to persons," Jam 2:1, Jam 2:4, Jam 2:9. ALFORD translates as the Greek is translated, Jam 1:6, "wavering," "without doubting." But thus there would be an epithet referring to one's self inserted amidst those referring to one's conduct towards others. English Version is therefore better. without hypocrisy--Not as ALFORD explains from Jam 1:22, Jam 1:26, "Without deceiving yourselves" with the name without the reality of religion. For it must refer, like the rest of the six epithets, to our relations to others; our peaceableness and mercy towards others must be "without dissimulation."
John Gill Bible Commentary
But the wisdom that is from above,.... Which has God for its author; which is infused into the soul by the Spirit of God; and leads into the knowledge of things that are above, of heavenly things; and which only is true wisdom and knowledge; and those who are possessed of it are the only true Gnostics; for which; see Gill on Jam 3:13 namely, the grace of God: this wisdom is first pure; it is pure in itself, it is free from everything that is earthly, carnal, or sensual, or devilish; it produces purity of heart, of life, and conversation; and is the means of keeping persons pure and chaste, and free from impure lusts, lusts of uncleanness, pride, envy, wrath, &c. which prevail in carnal and unregenerate men: and then peaceable; it inclines and engages those who have it to live in peace with the saints, and even with all men; with those of their own household, with their neighbours, yea, with their enemies: it is also "gentle"; or makes men gentle, moderate, and humane, so as that they bear, and forbear; they bear with the infirmities of the weak; readily forgive injuries done them; do not rigidly exact what is their due, but recede from their just right for the sake of peace and love; and do not bear hard upon others for their failings, but cover them with the mantle of love: and it is easy to be treated; or those who have it readily yield to the superior judgments and stronger reasonings of others; and are easily induced to hope and believe all things, and entertain a good opinion of men, and their conduct; and are far from being proud, arrogant, obstinate, and overbearing: full of mercy and good fruits; of compassion and beneficence to the poor; feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the widows and fatherless in their affliction; and doing all other good works and duties, both with respect to God and man, as fruits of grace, and of the Spirit: without partiality: to one another; or making a difference between them; showing no respect to persons; bestowing upon the poor and indigent, without any distinction: and without hypocrisy; either with respect to God or man; not making show of that which they have not, or do not intend.