Wisdom Wednesday: The Character of Wisdom Part 2
Submitted by Debbie’s Dad
But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. (James 3:14-16 NASB 95)
In chapter 1 of James’ epistle, he says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” (v.5) (NKJV), cautioning us to ask in unwavering faith. In chapter 3, he returns to the subject of wisdom and makes a sharp distinction between the wisdom of God and the wisdom of man.
Last week, in chapter 3, we saw James asked, “Who among you is wise and understanding?” And we saw how James listed 8 attributes of God’s “wisdom from above.” (James 3:17-18)
But preceding those verses, in today’s verse, he cautioned about the wisdom that is not from God, but the wisdom of the world. Paul also warned of this worldly wisdom (I Cor. 2:6; 3; 19). James describes it by its own attributes:
- Bitter envy, selfish ambition–These are the driving forces of worldly wisdom; people seeking and competing for stature.
- Arrogance against The Truth–Worldly wisdom declares itself to be wise by denying God’s truth–His existence, His creation, His Son and the truth of the Gospel of salvation. Paul showed how people declare themselves wise and yet become fools! (Rom. 1:22)
- Earthly, natural–Worldly wisdom embraces a naturalistic worldview that believes that nature is the only reality, and that physical laws account for all existence. The view rejects God and the supernatural.
- Demonic–This wisdom accepts the teachings that reject the truth and are effectively those that are promoted by demons (See I Tim 4:1 on the doctrines or the teachings of demons).
James contrasts the outcome of these two forms of wisdom:
- The result of the world’s wisdom is disorder and evil practices. (3:16) We can clearly see this in secular organizations, political parties, and governments.
- The result of God’s wisdom is righteousness sown in peace. (3:18) This is Christ’s desire for His church–believers that walk in His wisdom and reveal His glory on earth.
Let us live a life that demonstrates God’s wisdom and be wise to recognize and reject the wisdom of the world.