Dec. 1, 2024
TEXT:  James 3:13-4:12

I. God’s view of having His wisdom (v. 13)
A. God’s view is presented with a probing question (Psalm 111:10; Proverbs 1:7; 9:10)
B. God’s view is presented with evidence in what is displayed
C. God’s view is presented with the standard of meekness over pride (James 1:5, 17; Romans 1:22; Deut. 32:20; Psalm 101:4; Proverbs 2:1, 6, 15; 3:32; 4:24; 6:12; 8:8, 13; 10:31; 11:20; 16:28-30; 17:20; 21:8; 22:5; I Peter 2:18; Acts 2:40)

II. God’s definition of wisdom that is not His (vv. 14-16)
A. Divisive attitudes in the heart (vv. 14, 16)
1. Bitterness is not from God (Colossians 3:19; Ephesians 4:31; Hebrews 12:15
2. Contentiousness is not from God (Proverbs 13:10; 12:15-16; 20:18)
3. Selfishness creates strife and conflicts that dishonor God
B. Received from other sources (v. 15; I Corinthians 2:6-7; 3:3; I John 2:15-17)
C. Resulting in chaos and confusion (v. 16a; I Corinthians 14:40)
D. Producing evil works of the flesh (v. 16b; I John 3:12; Jude 19)

III. God defines His wisdom very clearly (vv. 17-18)
A. God’s wisdom produces purity in our lives (v. 17a)
B. God’s wisdom results in peace in our relationships (vv. 17b, 18)
C. God’s wisdom causes us to behave appropriately (v. 17c)