Scripture References: James 3:13-4:3; 1 Corinthians 1:18-31; Psalm 73; John 3:25-30; Philippians 2:3-11
Intro: Welcome. Continuing our challenging journey through James, today we explore James 3:13-4:3. James contrasts two types of "wisdom" operating within the Christian community. One leads to disorder and conflict; the other leads to peace and righteousness. He asks: Which wisdom is guiding your life?
Key Points:
- True Wisdom Demonstrated (v. 13): James asserts that genuine wisdom isn't proven by knowledge or argument, but by a "good life" – one that is attractive and winsome – shown through "deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom."
- Earthly "Wisdom" Exposed (vv. 14-16): James identifies the source of conflict:
- Bitter Envy: Resenting others' advantages or blessings; wanting their life.
- Selfish Ambition: Desiring to be center stage; seeking self-promotion and status. James calls this mindset "earthly, unspiritual, demonic." Its inevitable outcome is "disorder and every evil practice." It destroys community.
- Heavenly Wisdom Described (v. 17): Wisdom "from above" displays opposite characteristics: "first pure, then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere."
- Source of Conflict: Warring Desires (4:1-3): James traces quarrels and fights back to our internal desires. We fight because we want things (often driven by envy or ambition) that we don't have, frequently because we fail to ask God or ask with selfish motives ("to spend what you get on your pleasures").
- Choosing Heavenly Wisdom:
- Reject Envy; Embrace Contentment (Ps 73): Stop coveting others' lives or perceived advantages. Focus on God's goodness and provision for you. Find joy in what you do have.
- Reject Selfish Ambition; Embrace Humility & Service (John 3:25-30; Phil 2:3-11): Know your role (like John the Baptist: friend of the Bridegroom, not the Groom). Find joy in Christ increasing, even if you decrease. Follow Jesus' example of humbling Himself and serving others.
- Recognize God's Ways are Different (1 Cor 1): Heavenly wisdom often looks foolish to the world. Don't expect worldly approval for living God's way.
Conclusion: James presents a clear choice. The world's "wisdom"—driven by envy and selfish ambition—breeds conflict and destruction. God's wisdom—characterized by purity, peace, mercy, and humility—produces a harvest of righteousness. The truly "good life" flows from embracing heavenly wisdom.
Call to Action: Examine your heart. Are bitter envy or selfish ambition fueling disorder in your life or relationships? Confess them. Ask God for His wisdom from above. Choose contentment over envy by thanking Him for His specific gifts to you. Choose service over selfish ambition by looking for ways to value and elevate others this week.
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