Self-proclaimed truth-tellers abound in this life. Countless people masquerade around as light bearers, but many are not connected to the source of true wisdom. In these last verses of Chapter 3 of his letter, James identifies two kinds of wisdom:
- Earthly Wisdom
- Heavenly Wisdom
James distinguishes between the two by first addressing the issue of earthly wisdom that appeared to be operating within the church, thus his challenge, “Who is wise and understanding among you?..” (v1). The only way we can possess true wisdom is in communion with God through Jesus Christ. Within this relationship bond that God has with believers, He dispenses his wisdom generously regardless of the condition of our spiritual growth (Jam 1:5). The type of wisdom that comes from God is fused together with heaven’s perspective and insight. We gain such understanding by knowledge and experience administered in our lives by the Spirit (cf., Prv 2:6). The point James conveys is this: If we pray for God’s wisdom, he will give it. However, to only receive wisdom from God is not sufficient within itself. We are commanded to live out daily what we hear from Him with humility and gentleness, thus James exhorts, “…By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom.” (cf., Gal 5:22-23).
James progresses to the second element of his instruction. Exercising God’s wisdom is impossible if we are harboring bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in our hearts like refugees. It is very difficult to hide this condition of the heart from people, for it will come out in what we say, for Jesus taught, “…For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Mt 12:34). When we walk in earthly wisdom, we are prone to give unmitigated vent to our feelings that is rooted in our sinful nature which shall shine a light on self-deception working in our lives for others to see. This is why James cautions, “…if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth” (v14). Why does James give this warning? His conclusion springs forth from this foundational truth: Man’s wisdom is rooted in his nature as well as God’s is rooted in His. Man’s core disposition is fallen and desperately wicked (cf., Jer 17:9) In contrast, God is holy and pure. Man’s wisdom is corrupted by sin. It rejects the wisdom that comes from God. It mimics the father of lies (the devil) in its nature and potency, thus James declares of such earthly wisdom, “This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, and demonic” (v15). Further, He rightly concludes that since the source of earthly wisdom is of the devil, it will have all the marks of his kingdom, “For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice” (v16).
Let us desire the wisdom that comes solely from God in all matters of life. Where earthly wisdom (we have learned and modeled) comes into conflict with God’s Word, we abandon such wisdom of this world like fleeing for our lives out of a burning building. To God be the glory forever! Amen.
Blessings,
Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D.
www.springoflivingwaters.com