Daily Writing

Friday, 9 August 2019

For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. James 3:16

Apologies for not commentary being posted yesterday. I had no internet.

James now ties verses 14 and 15 together in thought –

14 – But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth.

15 – This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic.

16 – For where envy and self-seeking (14)  exist, confusion (connected to the false wisdom of verse 15a) and every evil thing (15b) are there.

The thoughts are all drawn together in a masterful explanation of the matter. If there is envy and self-seeking, there cannot be order and harmony. Rather only confusion will result. The word translated as “confusion” is one that speaks almost of anarchy. There is a breakdown of the moral sphere, and the result is disorder and a situation where anything is up for grabs.

In addition to this “every evil thing” will be there. The word translated as “evil” gives the sense of that which is vile. The breakdown of morality will inevitably lead to an unholy state, and actions which are completely opposed to that which is pure, moral, and upright.

Looking at the actions of those on the left in political matters forms an exceptionally good picture of what James has in mind. They deny that life in the womb is actually human life, and they vilify those who accept God’s norms of male and female as binding. On and on they continue down avenues of depravity, and it all began with envy and a self-seeking attitude.

James will contrast such things in the coming verses.

Life application: James has pretty much summed up the entire case for evil in the world – from the fall of man down to current times. It was envy of man’s favorable position as God’s image-bearer, and also selfish ambition that he could usurp God’s authority, which prompted the devil to bring about his rebellion. Likewise, Adam was tempted with prideful, selfish ambition and he was enticed to sin –

“You will not surely die. ⁵ For God knows that in the day you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” Genesis 3:4, 5

Since that time, man has been enticed into every evil practice through envy and/or selfish ambition. We now live in a relativistic world where ultimate truth is considered a myth and “all paths lead to God.” But this thought process stems directly from selfish ambition as well.

Rather than believing in man as having been created in God’s image, we follow a god created in man’s imagination. We do this because we ourselves want to be the ruler of our own fate and thus we become our own “god.” This only produces more disorder, which in turn produces more evil practices. Eventually, this can only lead to further chaos and discord.

This is where the world is heading, and the results are recorded in the book of Revelation – judgment on an unrepentant world. God has shown us His path to reconciliation; His one path. Outside of Jesus, there is only death and destruction, but in Him there is forgiveness and reconciliation. In Him alone are light, order, and every good thing.

Lord God, help us to be wise and discerning in our thoughts. Take away the darkness of envy and selfish ambition and replace it with the light of contentment and peace that is found in Jesus our Lord. This we pray so that others may come to understand the truth of Your gospel through us. Amen.

Wednesday, 7 August 2019

This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. James 3:15

The previous verse spoke of having bitter envy and self-seeking in one’s heart. James now states that those things are opposed to that which is heavenly or godly. Rather, the opposite is true. He says, “This wisdom does not descend from above.”

The translation surely fails to convey the intended meaning. By saying “This wisdom,” it is implying that it is a type of wisdom, when it is, in fact, just the opposite. Rather, there is an article before “wisdom” and the Greek appears to more correctly read, “That is not the wisdom which comes down from above” (Weymouth NT). One way to retain the truth while maintaining the same basic structure of the NKJV would be to emphasize the word “wisdom” as the NIV does. They say, “Such ‘wisdom’ does not come down from heaven.” Thus it sets it apart as actually not being a type of wisdom.

Either way, there is a need to show that calling such an attitude “wisdom” is actually profaning the idea of the true wisdom which comes from God. What James referred to in the previous verse does not come from above, but it rather is “earthly.”

The idea here is that which is temporary and fading. That which is heavenly is eternal and will never change. When one looks to the earthly, he will grasp onto that which can benefit him “right now.” There is nothing truly long-term because this life is short and uncertain. Therefore, that which is earthly is naturally self-seeking.

He next says that it is “sensual.” This means that what is conveyed finds its source in what will fill the unspiritual, carnal desires of man rather than that which is logical and/or spiritual. It comes about from one’s inappropriate passions rather than a proper attitude concerning what is godly.

James then finishes with the thought that it is “demonic.” It is an adjective found only here in Scripture. It signifies that which resembles a demon or which is influenced by a demon. As Albert Barnes notes, “There may be indeed talent in it, but there is the intermingling of malignant passions, and it leads to contentions, strifes, divisions, and ‘every evil work.’”

One can see the three divisions of body, soul, and spirit here. The “spirit,” is not so much a separate entity, but it is the connection of the body and soul to God, or a lack of such a connection. If one is rightly connected to God, there will be no influence of the devil or demons. When he is not, there can be attacks upon the person, even a saved person.

Life application: Really think on those you look to for spiritual guidance. What are their motivations? You can’t always tell, and most people would not intentionally follow a deceiver. But it is right to evaluate each person carefully. Do you perceive them as pure and selfless? Would they be willing to stand in the same position if the money stopped flowing in or if there was no notoriety? We need to be extremely careful about who we follow and why.

Good looks fade, bad financial decisions bring about disaster, and political winds change. Preaching the gospel may go from something desirous and lucrative to something punishable by law. Those who stood in the pulpit because of selfish ambition will certainly fall away under conditions like these.

Likewise, envy can also motivate our clergy’s decisions. If one perceives others in higher positions, nicer locations, or closely aligned with political leaders, he may engage in unspiritual talk about them. James says this attitude certainly doesn’t come from heaven, but from a love of the world.

Those who are in spiritual positions may be motivated from an unspiritual source. Instead of being inspired by a love of God, their hearts may be motivated by the lure of the devil.

Stand back and evaluate those you follow from time to time and make sure their guidance is biblical and godly and that the source of their motivation hasn’t been corrupted by money or fame. If you see them taking a bad turn, talk to them about it. Everyone needs accountability and no one is above temptation.

Heavenly Father, today we take the time to pray for the men who are our pastors, preachers, and teachers of the word. We pray that those we turn to for spiritual guidance will be godly men. Keep them from the wiles of the devil, from envy of others, and from selfish deceit. Fill them with Your wisdom and pure hearts for the preaching of the Gospel of Jesus. Amen.

Tuesday, 6 August 2019

But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. James 3:14

James, still addressing teachers, has just said that the wise among them should “show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.” Now, he shows a state which is contrary to that by saying, “But if you have bitter envy.” The word translated as “envy” is one which can have a positive or a negative connotation, zelos. It is where the word zealous is derived from. Attaching the word “bitter” to this shows that it is a negative zeal. Instead of good conduct, there is bitter envy.

Along with that, he says, “and self-seeking in your hearts.” The word translated as “self-seeking” signifies seeking followers by the means of gifts. Thus, it is one who is self-seeking or who looks to divide into factions. This then is in contrast to the meekness of wisdom mentioned in the previous verse.

James says that if someone has such attitudes in his heart, he shouldn’t “boast.” This is exactly the type of spirit which disqualifies a person to teach. Rather than boasting, he should get a shovel and learn to dig ditches. Such a person is unqualified for the more perfect duties of teaching the word of God.

James then finishes with the thought that such a person should not “lie against the truth.” His words in this verse will be explained in the next verses. In understanding what they say, it is seen that “the truth” here isn’t just a simple statement concerning general truth. Rather, it is speaking of the truth of God in Christ. That will be made perfectly evident.

Therefore, this person’s “lie against the truth,” is a lie against Christ Jesus – who is the embodiment of truth. It is He who is revealed in Scripture, and this person James speaks of is such a self-seeking teacher who is ultimately lying against. He is engaged in a war to divide the body for self-interest. As the church is the body of Christ (Colossians 1:18), this person will be held accountable for his unholy attempt to draw souls away from what belongs to Christ.

Life application: If we are truly humble in our hearts, then what we do will naturally be for the benefit of others and there won’t be any envy or ambitious intent which satisfies the selfish soul. As Eliphaz the Temanite says in the book of Job –

“For wrath kills a foolish man,
And envy slays a simple one.” Job 5:2

When we are self-seeking, several things occur all in the same action:

1) We dishonor God by attempting to draw recognition, power, and glory to ourselves rather than directing our efforts towards glorifying Him.

2) We dishonor our neighbor who we are trying to subjugate to our own faction, rather than directing him towards the truth of God in Christ. In this, we are not loving our neighbor as ourselves. Rather, we are attempting to rule our neighbor for ourselves.

As James said in Chapter 2, “If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself,’ you do well” (verse 8).

Paul, likewise acknowledges this in Romans 13:10 with, “Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.”

James’ words show that if we act contrary to this, we should neither deny it nor boast about it. What is needed is a heart change and a new attitude. If you are suffering from envy or selfish ambition, you need to lay it before the Lord and seek instead to glorify Him.

Lord Jesus, help us to be satisfied with the life and blessings we have received. Take away our envious eyes and our selfish hearts and replace them with loving hands which build bridges, caring words which edify others, and gentle, thankful spirits which bring honor to You. This we pray that You will be glorified. Amen.

Monday, 5 August 2019

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. James 3:13

James has been speaking of the tongue, and in particular that of it issuing forth both blessings and curses. He shows that this is contradictory and illogical. Now, he turns that into a question. “Who is wise and understanding among you?”

It is James’ way of stimulating thought, “If it is contradictory and illogical to issue forth blessings to God and yet also curse men created in God’s image, then who will learn from my words now? It is the one who is wise and understanding.”

The words are well translated. The first one is sophos. It is a primary word which indicates being learned, skilled, clever, and so on. The second word, epistémón, is found only here. As sophos is a general wisdom, epistémón is a more precise knowledge of something. It signifies being skillful or experienced.

Between the two, one might think of a person who can fix lots of things – a jack of all trades. He is wise. And yet, he is also especially good at repairing intricate mechanical things. He has understanding. This is who James is directing his words to. If there is such a person, “Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.”

Obviously, James is speaking of moral wisdom and understanding. And more especially, he is still referring to those who would purpose to be teachers (see James 3:1). He then shows that by demonstrating good conduct he is wise. And that by having his works done in the meekness of wisdom, he is showing understanding.

The word “wisdom” in here is sophia. It signifies insight, intelligence, etc. It is the root of our words “sophistication” and “philosophy.” It is one who takes the wisdom and uses it properly, as an art form.

The intent is that a person who is wise and understanding will go through his life (signified by the word “works”) being careful to display good conduct, and this walk is to be in meekness (humility) which requires wisdom. In other words, it is almost a form of art to turn his wisdom to proper living and proper instruction.

Life application: The Psalmist of old reflects in his words the same concept of wisdom as James does –

“Whoever is wise will observe these things,
And they will understand the lovingkindness of the Lord.” Psalm 107:43

This is the final verse of a psalm which speaks of the greatness of God and his marvelous deeds done among the sons of men – both directly and through creation.

For the person James addresses, the good conduct of his works which are done in the meekness of wisdom are those that acknowledge and consider the great love of the Lord. If we can keep what we are doing in that perspective, then our deeds will truly be deeds of righteousness. This is because they show both wisdom and understanding about the nature of God which leads to an obedient life in Him.

By the very nature of loving the Lord, and considering His continual and undying love for us, we can then respond to others in faith and in good deeds toward them. Ultimately, what benefit is it to do deeds of goodness for others without considering God? In the end, they are shallow and meaningless.

A philanthropist, for example, can give billions of dollars for AIDS funding, but without faith in God and considering His hand in our existence, the gesture has only temporary benefit. Only the body, which perishes, is relieved. But the soul of the sinner isn’t changed at all. In fact, its allegiance has actually been directed further away from God. By giving credit to the philanthropist, or those who worked in the process, the Lord is denied the credit He is due. However, if the person did these things in the name of the Lord, then He would be rightly considered as the true Donor of the goodness.

When using our tongue in speaking the deeds we have accomplished, remember to humbly acknowledge and consider the Lord’s hand in the process, deferring the credit to Him.

Lord Jesus, it is hard to accomplish our deeds and not want credit for them. But Lord, give us the ability to pass the honor on to You. May You alone be acknowledged for the works accomplished in the course of human events, even the small portion of them that we add to that stream of events. Yes Lord, may all of the glory rightly be lifted to You. Amen.

Sunday, 4 August 2019

Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh. James 3:12

James continues with more rhetorical questions, again demanding negative answers. He questions, “Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives”? This takes the student of the Bible back to the first page of Scripture –

“Then God said, ‘Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb that yields seed, and the fruit tree that yields fruit according to its kind, whose seed is in itself, on the earth’; and it was so. ¹² And the earth brought forth grass, the herb that yields seed according to its kind, and the tree that yields fruit, whose seed is in itself according to its kind.” Genesis 1:11, 12

The answer to the question is, “No, such cannot occur.” The reason for the answer is that God has ordained it this way. He has made each fruit tree according to its kind, and it bears fruit which is according to its kind. The fruit contains a seed which corresponds to the fruit, and that seed will bear a new tree, according to its kind. And to ensure that the reader continues to think on these lines, James continues with, “or a grapevine bear figs?”

Again, the answer is, “No.” The reason for asking the same type of question as before is the same reason we do this today. In asking a second question concerning the same matter, it asks us to continue with the process in our own minds for all such occurrences as they come to mind. “Can a coconut tree bear durian fruit?” “Can an orange tree bear bananas?” By asking twice, we are encouraged to think the matter through to its logical and complete conclusion.

Knowing that this is the case, James then goes back to answer the question of the previous verse. He had asked, “Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening?” His answer is, “Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh.” In these words, he includes one which is only found here in Scripture, halukos. It signifies “salty.” A spring cannot issue forth salty and fresh.

As this is so, and as the words are intended to be tied into what issues from the mouth of man, James shows the illogical and inconsistent thought of blessing and cursing issuing forth from the same mouth.

Life application: Considering the early Genesis account in relation to the coming of Jesus, it gives us an insight into the mystery of Christ. He was born of the Holy Spirit and of Mary. Therefore, He is the unique God/Man – fully God through the Holy Spirit and fully Man through Mary. Therefore, He alone is qualified to change our nature from corruption to life – from a bitter salt spring to one which issues forth fresh water.

By nature, we are at enmity with God and we cannot produce anything pleasing to Him. Sin separates us from Him. But by accepting Christ, our very nature is changed and we can now be pleasing to Him – not because of anything inherent in us, but by the power of the Holy Spirit.

If you have not yet accepted Christ, no matter how you feel about your good deeds, your separation from God makes them futile. Put your trust in the Lord and He will change you to a spring of fresh water.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of the Water of Life – the renewing of our souls through the power of the Holy Spirit. We ask that you fill us daily with Your goodness so that we will be continual springs of fresh water to those around us. Thank You for Jesus, thank you for Your Spirit, and thank You for Your great love. Amen.