James 2:1-13

¹ My brethren, do not hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with partiality. ² For if there should come into your assembly a man with gold rings, in fine apparel, and there should also come in a poor man in filthy clothes, ³ and you pay attention to the one wearing the fine clothes and say to him, “You sit here in a good place,” and say to the poor man, “You stand there,” or, “Sit here at my footstool,” ⁴ have you not shown partiality among yourselves, and become judges with evil thoughts? ⁵ Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him? ⁶ But you have dishonored the poor man. Do not the rich oppress you and drag you into the courts? ⁷ Do they not blaspheme that noble name by which you are called? ⁸ If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you do well; ⁹ but if you show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors. ¹⁰ For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all. ¹¹ For He who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” Now if you do not commit adultery, but you do murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. ¹² So speak and so do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty. ¹³ For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

Commentary (preamble)
Chapter two begins with an exhortation against showing partiality, of holding the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with partiality. Notice first that it is the Lord's faith, not yours, not mine, but the Lords. And thus we don't get to decide who is acceptable to the Lord and who is not. Certainly not by carnal or fleshly standards, which inevitably carry within them our own biases and or preferences. And so the Lord of glory, to whom all glory and honor belongs has commanded us all through His chosen Apostle James, that we who believe in Him must not hold His faith with partiality. And in context of showing partiality to the rich. Literally, as the word used in the Old Testament indicates we are not too "look upon the face" as it were, as if ones outward appearance, stature, education, social standing, national origin or any other "outward thing" reveals anything about their heart or soul, much less their character or standing with God (consider 1 Sam. 16:7). For as the Scriptures make it abundantly clear God Himself shows partiality to no one, but whatever individual or nation works righteousness is accepted by Him (see Deut. 10:17; Acts 10:34-35). Therefore He commands the same from us, that we not show partiality (Lev. 19:15; Deut. 10:16-19). Lest we distort His Gospel and Word by lifting one up above another (consider Malachi 3:5). For to show partiality to anyone, whether openly as is being rebuked here, or secretly, as can be the case through mankind's craftiness (Job 13:8-10), is only to sin (James 2:9). And so here the Apostle James gives us a glaring example of the sort of unrighteous and unjust conduct that comes from showing partiality. Especially from showing partiality to the rich, honoring them openly, as if their having wealth constitutes showing preferential treatment to them, while putting to an open shame a poor man who is both beloved and chosen of God. And so here the Apostle James makes no room for showing partiality to the rich, as is so often the case in this world. Where all manner of special treatment is so often extended to them that they expect it, and are often offended if not so treated. Yet the Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of Glory never received any such treatment. Indeed He was born in a stable, to obscure parents, in an obscure town. And His life here on earth was not spent being pandered to (consider John 13:12-17). But rather He spent His ministry life with the poor, the outcasts, the powerless etc. to whom He preached His Gospel, and to whom God has made heirs of it with Himself (James 2:5).
And so the Apostle James to make his point reaches from the opposite ends of the societal spectrum (just as Jesus Christ draws men and women too Himself from all walks of life) and places them into what would be for us a Sunday morning service as it were. The backdrop appropriately enough then is the local assembly, the church, where we as believers are too clearly exemplify God's truth towards all, by being openly hospitable towards all who seek Him in faith, showing partiality to no one. 

Vs. 1-4
¹ My brethren, do not hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with partiality. ² For if there should come into your assembly a man with gold rings, in fine apparel, and there should also come in a poor man in filthy clothes, ³ and you pay attention to the one wearing the fine clothes and say to him, “You sit here in a good place,” and say to the poor man, “You stand there,” or, “Sit here at my footstool,” ⁴ have you not shown partiality among yourselves, and become judges with evil thoughts?

And so the Apostle James begins by giving us a scenario where two individuals enter a local assembly. One clearly wealthy and affluent and the other outwardly destitute. And sadly it is the wealthily man who garners the deacons or greeters attention. And so they quickly move towards that person and extend to them not just a cordial greeting, which is what they should do towards all. But rather they offer them a seat of prestige and privilege, saying to them "You sit here in a good place." Before going over to "deal with" the poor man whom they have little patience of love for. And so they say to him, “You stand there,” or, “Sit here at my footstool”, as if he was someone's dog, or a criminal who must be watched with a hawk eye attentiveness. And so what do you think the Lord thinks of us when we treat people, especially people He has chosen like that? For when we hold the faith with partiality we only pervert the Gospel of Jesus Christ by making unjust distinctions people, esteeming one far better than the other, simply based on their external appearances. And so when anyone does that they are not acting justly. Instead they are only, as the Apostle James says here, being judges with evil thoughts. For look what happens to God's commandments when financial success becomes the measure of ones faith or worth. "love thy neighbor as thyself ", gets tossed for showing partiality to the rich and affluent, and along with it, all empathy towards the poor and needy. Something God Himself would never do (consider Deut. 15:11; Job 5:15-16; Psalm 12:5; 14:6; 22:6; 40:17; 69:33; 72:1-4; 82:1-4; 107:41; 109:14-16; 113:7; 132:15; 140:12; Isaiah 41:17 etc.). Again when an external measure of a person becomes the measure of their faith or their worth as a human being, than you can be sure their will be plenty of injustice and cruelty that will follow and emanate from the mouths and lives of those who hold to such godless values.

And so in many ways that is the way of "the world", which esteems men or women because of their athletic prowess, or beauty, or "success", or "fame", or whatever else brings people into a favorable standing with others, simply because of some sort of external thing, which when applied in the church setting only leads to showing partiality and thus denies everyone's inherent value as an image bearer of God. And so if one esteems wealth (especially if one considers this as a "sure fire" measure of ones Godliness, which it is not) then one will likely be inclined too show deference too the wealthy; or if one esteems athletic prowess then one may be inclined too show partiality to the athletically gifted. Same with intellectual capacities, or external beauty, or whatever else makes one externally "desirable". For all these attributes appeal too the carnal nature, but have no bearing in the eyes of God as too whom He chooses (consider 1 Samuel 16:7; 1 Corinthians 1:26-31). And thus we as believers must be on guard against showing partiality to anyone. For all these external things are temporary, and reveal nothing about God's calling on ones person or their own faith and lives.

 Vs. 5-7 ⁵ Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him? ⁶ But you have dishonored the poor man. Do not the rich oppress you and drag you into the courts? ⁷ Do they not blaspheme that noble name by which you are called? ⁸ If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you do well; ⁹ but if you show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors. ¹⁰ For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all. ¹¹ For He who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” Now if you do not commit adultery, but you do murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. ¹² So speak and so do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty. ¹³ For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

The very fact that God has chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the Kingdom which He promised to those who love Him, should be plenty enough reason too bring an end to showing partiality to the rich. For it's not the rich in their arrogance and self-sufficiency, who are heirs of God's Kingdom (consider Matt. 5:3; Luke 6:20-26). Rather it is the poor, the oppressed, the downtrodden etc. In many ways this worlds failures and "castaways", who in our rejected state find God willingly receiving us through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior (Matt 9:9-13). And so with an unconditional faith we receive the Lord Jesus Christ and what He has done to save us all from our sins, and lift us all out of our poverty and into the everlasting riches of Christ. Rejected by this world according to it's values and standards, yes. But redeemed by the precious love and blood of Jesus Christ. And so the Apostle James says in showing partiality to the rich, (whose trust is in themselves and or their wealth), you have only dishonored the poor man whom God has chosen! For as the Apostle James also says: "Do not the rich oppress you and drag you into the courts? ⁷ Do they not blaspheme that noble name by which you are called? For you won't find the rich man (in his self sufficiency) defending the cause of the poor. No instead as James says he will be the first to drag them into the courts demanding his rightful due. So why honor such a person? Who neither honors God (Luke 12:16-21), nor does he regard the poor and needy, not even when their plight is fully evident to them (consider Luke 16:19-31). Rather in their self-sufficient pride they only blasphemy the Royal Name by which we are called. Blaspheming not only with their tongue, but also with their self-serving lives, which they live with a callous and haughty indifference towards anyone's plight, other than their own. For if there isn't any profit in it for them, then they simply aren't interested.

Vs. 8-9 ⁸ If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you do well; ⁹ but if you show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors.

In stating as much the Apostle James is essentially calling into question anyone who thinks they are obeying God (i.e. fulfilling the royal law) if they show partiality to the rich while despising the poor. That the Apostle James here calls it the royal law, must be harkening back too the emphasis Jesus placed on loving ones neighbor as oneself, as encompassing all of our duty towards our fellow human beings (see Matt. 22:34-40, also consider Matt. 7:12). For in that one command is all of the moral and ethical responsibilities incumbent on us all that are found in the Law of God. And so James says if we really fulfill the royal law, (not just think that we are doing so while we are showing partiality), then we do well. But if not, and we show partiality, whether through the law or anything else, we are not living according too God's royal law. Instead we only sin. And thus we are convicted by the law as transgressors. For God, in both the law and the Gospel, commands us not to show partiality to anyone (Deut. 10:17; 16:18-20; Acts 10:34-35; Col 3:25; 1 Tim 5:21 etc.). Thus we must never hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ with partiality towards anyone (James 2:1).

Vs. 10-13  ¹⁰ For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all. ¹¹ For He who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” Now if you do not commit adultery, but you do murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. ¹² So speak and so do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty. ¹³ For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.

The Apostle James' here is drawing an analogy from the Law. And so just as the Law does not justify anyone who stumbles in it. Neither does the royal Law justify (in the sense of doing what is right) those who show partiality in it. And thus we cannot show partiality and think we are actually obeying the royal law of God. Now as James also makes it clear, the Law does not justify anyone by their own obedience, for too stumble in one point, is too be guilty of all of it (also see Gal. 3:10-14). And so we don't look to the law for our justification before God, (as if our own obedience could save us). Instead we look only to Jesus Christ crucified in our place and His Righteousness imputed to us when we believe in Him (2 Cor 5:21).  Thus in commanding our obedience to the royal law, to love our neighbors as ourselves, the Apostle James is not putting us back under the Law of God (see Rom. 3:19-26; 6:14; 7:6 etc.). Instead he is warning us not to be self-deceived, and think our behavior justifiable if we are showing partiality. For if we show partiality, as the Old Covenant priests were rebuked by God for doing so through the Law (Malachi 2:7-9), then we only sin. Therefore instead of being judges with evil thoughts, as the Apostle James first warned us about (James 2:4); and thus judging and despising the poor for their less than tidy outward appearances, (as if righteousness before God comes by outward appearances). We ought rather "So speak and so do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty. ¹³ For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment." Vs. 12-13

And so we must as children of God so speak and so do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty. Which does not come by observing the self imposed religious ideals of man (see Rom 14; Col 2:20-22). Instead the law of liberty comes by holding to justification by faith in Jesus Christ's Person alone (Rom 10:3-4). Thus not "faith plus works" as a formula for salvation. But faith alone, through God's grace alone, which justifies and liberates every soul from the unfulfillable requirements of the Law of God (consider Acts 15:8-11 and the Apostle Peters defense of God justifying by His Spirit within those who believe in Jesus, of both Jews and Gentiles). And thus we do not look to our "obedience" to Law of God to be justified before God, but only the Lord Jesus Christ crucified in our place, for our sins remission. And so we are to speak and judge as those who will be judged by the law of liberty, not the ceremonial law of God, nor the preferences of man. But by the Law of liberty! For to now judge by outward appearances believers who have been both cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ and justified by the Spirit of God, and thus under the New Covenant, is a very precarious thing for anyone to do. For as the Apostle James concludes here "judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment." Therefore when we see the poor, the oppressed, the afflicted, the downtrodden, the sinner who is broken in heart and spirit (Luke 18:9-14) let us neither despise, nor judge them as "failures" and "castaways", rather as God has shown us mercy in our time of need, let us also be people of mercy! For mercy triumphs over judgment!


Scripture Citations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

Word Studies
Partiality: Str. 4382; GK 4721, 4724; LN 88.238; TDNT 6.779; TDNTA 950

 

James 1:21-27

 ²¹ Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. ²² But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. ²³ For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; ²⁴ for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. ²⁵ But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does. ²⁶ If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. ²⁷ Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.

Commentary
Vs. 21 Given against the backdrop of our being the firstfruits of God's creatures through His Word (vs. 18). The Apostle James here commands that we "lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls."

Thus we are to live lives that are utterly different then the godless and wicked of this world who neither receive the love of the truth, nor obey it (2 Thess. 2:9-12, vs. 10). Lives which magnify the truth of God by our obedience to the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Now as you may have already speculated the word James uses here that is translated filthiness is a reference to "moral impurity", that is those sins, specifically those sexual sins, that are in violation of God's law, and thus defile ones person (see Lev 18). And so in this world where an ever increasing moral degeneracy is taking place right before our collective eyes, it is incumbent upon us all who believe in Jesus Christ to make a marked distinction in our conduct as too what is of God and what is not, and thus what is morally right and justifiable in the eyes of God, and what is not (consider Matt 7:13-14). Therefore as the firstfruits of God's creation we are commanded to lay aside all "filthiness", and overflow (lit. abundance) of wickedness that is of this world, and or is in our lives. And rather receive with meekness the implanted Word, which is able to save our souls. For simply going to church does not make anyone right in the sight of God, nor does being involved in various Christian ministries (all which is good, but none of it is the remedy for sin in ones life). Rather Jesus Christ's healing begins in ones life when one sees their need for Him and in faith repents and believes in Him (Matt 9:9-13), and thus receives with meekness the implanted Word (that is the eternally established Word of God) which is fully able to save their soul. For it is ones reception of the Living Word of God that both saves as well as sanctifies ones entire person, cleansing them from all their sins through the blood of Jesus Christ and making them a new creation In Christ, with new Godly drives, passions, and desires.

Vs. 22 And so connecting the Apostle James exhortations in verse nineteen to twenty one, we are first to be swift to hear, rather than too speak. For it's with a hearing ear (and thus an open heart) that we receive with meekness the implanted Word, which is able to save our souls. And so here the Apostle James having given us exhortations to first hear, then receive with meekness the implanted Word, now says for us all to practice it. "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves."  And so we have the formula: hear the Word; receive (i.e. believe) the Word; practice the Word of God. For that is Christian discipleship 101. For only then does the transforming power of the Lord Jesus Christ through the Gospel of God take place in ones life. For as the Apostle James says here one can deceive themselves by simply hearing the Word of God and not putting it into practice. Because simply sitting in pew on Sunday morning and "listening" to the preacher speak transforms no-one. Unless you are willing to take into your heart what you hear and do something with it, it will neither transform you, nor anyone else in your sphere of influence. For God only works in our lives (and the lives of others) when we are willing to both hear Him and obey Him

Vs. 23-25 ²³ For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; ²⁴ for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. ²⁵ But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.


The Apostle James in using the analogy of a man looking at himself in a mirror then going away and immediately forgetting what kind of man he was, is in many ways the perfect analogy of the Christian who receives the Word of God, but by not putting it into practice immediately forgets what kind of person they now are, and thus they inevitably fall into all kinds of personal and spiritual perils. And so in contrast to that James says: "But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does." vs. 25
Thus not a casual glance as word in other contexts implies. But here literally as one who stoops down to observe something, as one who is not only inquisitive, but is a diligent inquirer, and so looking into the perfect law of liberty, they take it to heart and seek to live it out in their lives. Thus they are not a forgetful hearer, like one who hears a sermon, goes home, and then does nothing with it. Instead they become a doer of the work, and so they are blessed in what they do (consider Psalm 1; 40:4; 41:1-2; 94:12-15; 103:6; 112; 128:1-4; Prov. 10:7; 20:7; 22:9; Rev 22:12-17). For growth in a Christians life does not come by idleness (consider  2 Timothy 2:22; Heb. 12:14; 1 Peter 3:8-12, vs. 11; 2 Peter 1:5-11). Growth in the Christians life comes by doing. For having been born-again by God's Word through faith in Jesus Christ we are too put it into practice in our lives, and thus grow in grace and truth, and thus grow in the qualities that make for a Christians fruitfulness and peace. For the Word of God is only profitable for one if one both believes it, and seeks to obey it (Hebrews 4:2).  For having been delivered from the powers of darkness and transferred into the Kingdom of the Son of God's love, our place is now secure with Christ (John 10:27-30; Eph. 4:30; Col 1:13). So that we can live lives that are a both pleasing to God, and a blessing too others as well (Titus 3:8).

Vs. 26-27
²⁶ If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. ²⁷ Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world.

The Apostle James now moves from imagery and back into practical faith living. His focus is the tongue, specifically that we learn to bridle ours (consider Prov. 13:2-3; 21:23). Since nothing is more defeating to a Christians own personal walk and witness then an unbridled tongue. For in the Scriptures the unbridled tongue is always the mark of the ungodly, the wicked, and or the fool and thus such should have no place amongst brethren (Eph. 4:29; Col. 3:8).
For various wisdom passages concerning the tongues of the wicked, the ungodly, and the fool see Psalm 5:9; 10:3-7; 12:3-4; 15:15; 36:3; 50:16-21; 52:1-7; 57:4; 59:7-12; 62:4; 64:1-9; 73:8-9; 78:36; 109:2; 144:8, 11; Prov. 6:12-15; 10:6, 11, 14, 31-32; 11:9, 11; 12:6; 14:3; 15:4; 17:4, 20; 18:6-7, 20, 21; 19:28; 21:6; 22:14; 24:7; 25:23; 26:7, 9; 26:28 etc. and so contrast these with Psalm 17:3; 19:14; 34:13; 35:28; 37:30-31; 39:1; 40:3; 49:3; 51:15; 54:2; 63:5, 11; 71:8, 15, 24; 89:1; 109:30; 119:13, 108, 131, 172; 120:2-3; 126:1-3; 141:3; 145:21; Prov. 8:8-9, 13; 10:20; 10:31; 12:14, 18-19; 14:3; 15:2, 4, 23, 28; 16:23; 21:23; 27:2; 28:23; 31:26; Ecc. 5:2; 10:12-13 etc.).

And so having cautioned us against having unruly or undisciplined mouths (also see 1 Peter 3:8-12), the Apostle James now says that "Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world." vs. 27
To visit widows and orphans in their time of need is too minister too the most vulnerable in society. At least that is how it was in the ancient world. And so now wherever there is people or people groups who are likewise neglected, in need, or at risk of mistreatment, or being mistreated, there is a duty for the Christian too bring the gospel to life to them and minister it in tangible ways to them, (consider Luke 10:29-37). For where there is a legitimate need, there is a legitimate ministry.

Scripture Citations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

Word Studies

Vs. 21
filthiness: Str 4507; GK 4864; LN 88.256
overflow: Str 4050; GK 4353; TDNT 6.63; TDNTA 828; LN 59.53, 78.31
implanted: Str. 1721; GK 1875; LN 85.31

 

James 1:19-20

 ¹⁹ So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; ²⁰ for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.

Commentary
The exhortation that the Apostle James gives us here is given against the backdrop of all that he previously stated. Both our going through various trials, and of needing wisdom while in them, and most recently of our being chosen by God to be the first fruits of His new creation through Christ. And so presented here is the kind of behavior that God is looking for in us, whether we are in times of trials, times of testing, or even times of "provocation." we are to be "swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God." vs. 19-20

Thus we are to magnify the wisdom of God, the Word of God, through our conduct. Which here is exhorting us to first be "swift to hear." Which in the context of going through various trials is first and foremost hearing God. For it is God's counsel that is to direct our lives, during times of prosperity and times of difficulty. And so hearing (or discerning) God's "voice" is something that we all must learn to do. All which begins with rightly dividing God's Word (2 Tim 2:15). Now for this we have the Holy Spirit whom God has implanted within us who believe so that we are not to be dependent on others for rightly dividing His Word's truth for us (1 John 2:27). Instead we are to be dependent on the Lord, who by His Spirit illuminates His Word to us, and thus enlightens His Will for us. That said, a wise person will always receive Godly counsel, or a hear a Godly rebuke according to God's Word, and thus they will always be very attentive to hear a Godly person who expounds the Scriptures correctly to them (antithesis Prov 12:15). For God does indeed speak to us through Godly people. And so what is being expounded here is that we have a teachable spirit. That we are "swift to hear", rather than "swift to speak" which often shuts one out from hearing anything other then themselves. And so in being attentive to listen to God we are too receive from God the truths in His Word as He illuminates them to us directly, or though others preaching, teaching and or simply sharing them with us. And thus we are to be swift to hear His voice through them for us (Consider Mark 4:24). For in putting Jesus Christ's commandments into practice we will not only grow in His righteousness and likeness, but also in peace as well (Isaiah 48:18).

"slow to speak"
Being "slow to speak" is a discipline that does not come easy, especially during times of duress. Yet it is critical to living a peaceful and Godly life, and or being a Godly leader. The many proverbs warning about the perils of the tongue testify to that fact (Prov. 10:19; 13:2; 13:3; 18:20-21; 21:23 etc.). Therefore we must learn to be "slow to speak" during times of provocation and times of duress.
For truly "The heart of the wise teaches his mouth, And adds learning to his lips." Prov. 16:23 Thus the wise person is careful with his words, he or she thinks before they speak (Prov. 15:28; 17:28-29). Equally they add learning to their lips, by growing in their knowledge of God. And thus learning what is acceptable in the sight of God and what is not. In contrast the fool is only known by his many words (Prov 15:2; 18:6, 7). None of which expound God's truth or righteousness or mercy or love. Instead the fools words are filled with pride, madness and folly, and thus only propagate sin on earth and or rebellion amongst mankind (consider Prov. 14:3; 16:27; 29:20; Ecc. 10:12-14). Therefore as God's children we are commanded not to follow their ways (Eph. 5:4). For truly only those like them eagerly feed on their nonsense (Prov 15:14; 17:4; Titus 3:9-11). And so, only in regards to Godly wisdom and counsel, or discernment and understanding, do they find themselves lacking for words (Prov 15:7; 23:9; 24:7; 26:7; 26:9). Therefore separating oneself (and or distinguishing ones behavior) from those who do not regard God's Word or heed His commandments is always a wise move (consider Psalm 85:8; Prov 10:14; 10:18; 11:9; 12:13; 13:16; 14:3; 14:7; 14:8; 14:18; 14:24; 14:29; 15:21; 17:12; 18:13; 26:4-5; 26:11; Ecc. 2:13; 10:1; Isaiah 9:17; 58:4; Titus 1:10-11; James 1:26). For truly being swift to hear is the antidote to the many evils that the tongue often unwittingly expounds; especially during times of duress (consider Psalm 39:1; Prov 10:19; 13:3; 21:23; Ecc. 9:17 etc.). And so being slow to speak will serve a person well if they learn that great and wise discipline. For even the great righteous man Job had to do battle with his tongue because of the unjust assailing done to him by his so called friends. And so as we see at end of it all even Job was in need of repentance, just as we all are, and sometimes are only made aware of by going through such unpleasant trials of life. Same with reducing escalating tensions, being swift to hear allows you time to compose yourself, as well as hear the other persons "points" which more than likely have some validity to them. And so being swift to hear often creates an opportunity for civil dialogue to take place, and thus possible peace to take hold. Though that is no guarantee, for contentious and angry people will always find something to rage about. But at least in maintaining your own composure you don't give Satan opportunity to strengthen his foothold in someone's life, or give him just grounds to assail your reputation through them, or anyone else. And so these principals apply to us all when witnessing for Jesus Christ; just as they do in our daily lives. For you can be passionate for Jesus Christ and His Gospel that brings life to all who repent and believe, without being reduced to publicly arguing with those whose hearts are already hardened, or whose minds are darkened. Same with standing for God's truth, one does not need to assail others verbally in the defense of it, which is only a disservice to it. All God's Word needs to is to be rightly and publically declared, for God always takes Providential care to defend His Word's truth (consider Prov. 1:20-33).  

"slow to wrath"
Again probably one of the hardest disciplines to master when one is passionate for the Lord and His Word in a world that simply isn't, and is sadly growing more and more hostile towards it (consider Isaiah 26:9). And so what the Apostle James has in mind here is not a prohibition against hating what God hates (consider Psalm 15:4; 97:10; Prov. 8:13; Hosea 9:17; Rom. 12:9; Eph. 4:26). It is though a prohibition against hating others, and or letting ones anger control oneself (Matt 5:43-48; Gal. 5:20; 1 John 2:9-11; 3:15; 4:20). For truly as God's Word says "He who is slow to wrath has great understanding, But he who is impulsive exalts folly." Prov. 14:29
And so given against the backdrop of believers going through various trials or persecutions, we are commanded here, and elsewhere, to put our wrath/anger away (consider Psalm 37:8-11; Eph. 4:31; Col. 3:8). For truly wrath is not something God wants His children too harbor, or be quick to exemplify, even when faced with ongoing provocation. For not only does a quick temper intrude upon and or overthrow sound decision making (Prov 14:17), it is again the mark of the fool (Prov 14:16). And thus must be put away before one can even be considered for church oversight (Titus 1:7). For again as the Apostle James says "the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God". For the wrath of man does not, nor can it equate with, the perfect understanding and infallibility of Almighty God, who alone is perfect in understanding and judgment. Thus in the Scriptures God's Wisdom is said to be found with him who is slow to anger, not with the one who is quick to exemplify it, and or is justifying his own (consider Prov. 12:16; 14:17; 14:29; 15:18; 16:32; 19:11; 27:3; Ecc. 7:9 etc.). For in the Scriptures it is clear that though God is slow to wrath, often delaying His judgment in the hope of repentance (Rom 2:4), He never forsakes His Word, and world, to those of it (Prov 16:4; Nehemiah 9:17; Psalm 103:8; 145:8; Joel 2:13; Jonah 4:2; Nahum 1:3; Rom 9:22). Hence the incumbency upon us all who believe in Jesus Christ is too exemplify the same sort of longsuffering disposition towards all (1 Thess. 5:9-11).
For though man may be the means by which God executes His just wrath on earth, just as He did through the Old Covenant Israelites, who were then commanded by Him too destroy the ungodly nations in the Promised Land, and or punish the transgressors amongst themselves (Psalm 149:5-9). As with the Old Covenant, in the New Covenant we must be very careful never to take this upon ourselves for the wrongs done to us, or others. For you will not find any Scriptural exhortations exonerating anyone who does so. And so throughout the Scriptures we see and read of God's Sovereign right and prerogative to execute His just wrath, only when He deems it time to do so (Deut. 32:39-43; Isaiah 13:11; 27:21; 34:8; 35:4; 59:16-20; Micah 5:15; Rom 12:19-21 etc.). And so in the Scriptures we also read of dutiful inquirers of the Lord, both asking for, and waiting on His verdict, rather then seeking to do this themselves (consider Psalm 7:6; 21:8-13; 37:8-11; 56:5-7; 58:1-11, vs. 10-11; 59:12-13; 69:19-28; 79:6; Psalm 94; Jer. 15:15; 20:12; Lam 3:58-66; Nahum 1:2-3; 2 Thess. 2:6-10, vs. 8; Rev. 19:1-5 etc.). That said we must put all these under the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ to whom all judgment belongs. For truly God has appointed all judgment too His Son (John 5:22-23, 27). Therefore our mandate given us by Him, because of what He has done by His crucifixion death for the salvation of everyone who believes in Him. Is that we be about the ministry of reconciliation (2 Cor 5:18-21). Seeking the reconciliation of all, both "good" and bad. For truly we are commanded by Him too pray not only for those we wish to be saved, but for all those who hate us and or persecute us as well (Matt 5:43-38). And thus we must wait on Him for His salvation (hopefully), or for His judgment on those who reject Him. And so as we read the Old Testament we also understand that God's judgment always begins with His own people then the nations around them. For truly judgment always begins at the house of God, and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? ¹⁸ Now “If the righteous one is scarcely saved, Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?” ¹⁹ Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to Him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator. " 1 Peter 4:17-19
And so given against the backdrop of believers going through various trials, we are commanded here and elsewhere to put our wrath/anger away from us, and let God work His Will and purposes in this world and in our lives.

Scripture Citations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982

James 1:12–18

 ¹² Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. ¹³ Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. ¹⁴ But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. ¹⁵ Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. ¹⁶ Do not be deceived, my beloved brethren. ¹⁷ Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. ¹⁸ Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures.

Commentary
Vs. 12  Previously the Apostle James exalted the virtue of patience, saying if any of us lacks this critical virtue we should ask this of God. And so we found out that God also often works this into our lives by permitting trials in them. Then James went on to declare our need for wisdom, which again we should ask of God in faith, without doubting or hypocrisy, for truly God does not reward that, but He does give Godly wisdom to all who seek it by faith and so He will direct our paths in a Godly manner while we are in any trial of life. And so now James pronounces a blessing that the Lord bestows on all those who endure temptation, saying: "Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him." vs. 10
Thus the connection between God permitting trials in our lives, and building (or) proving our character through them is unmistakable. Since James uses the same word that was translated "trials" in verse two, and is here translated "temptation" in verse twelve. Similarly the word translated "endures" here in verse twelve is linguistically connected with the word translated "patience" that James used in verses three and four, being intimately connected with it in meaning (see TDNT, volume 4, page 581). Now the word James uses in verse twelve that is translated approved (Gr. dokimos) has some colorful undertones as it relates to us as believers being approved by God for enduring temptations. To quote from Enhanced Strong's: "In the ancient world there was no banking system as we know it today, and no paper money. All money was made from metal, heated until liquid, poured into moulds and allowed to cool. When the coins were cooled, it was necessary to smooth off the uneven edges. The coins were comparatively soft and of course many people shaved them closely. In one century, more than eighty laws were passed in Athens, to stop the practice of shaving down the coins then in circulation. But some money changers were men of integrity, who would accept no counterfeit money. They were men of honour who put only genuine full weighted money into circulation. Such men were called "dokimos" or "approved". Donald Barnhouse.
Thus God's goal in "testing" his children or allowing us to go through "temptations" (depending on the context, and thus how you translate the word) is not to cause us to become discouraged, or fall into sin, as James makes clear later. But rather it is to prove our faith and character. And so the Apostle Paul, like the Apostle James, also sees God's grand designs unfolding for us while we are in them, and thus he too finds much cause for rejoicing while in them. For it is by external pressure that a "lump of coal" is formed into a valuable diamond. And so Paul again is in agreement with James when he says "...but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope." Rom 5:3 Now the word Paul uses that is translated "character" in Rom 5:3 is the same word translated "approved" here in James 1:12. While the word Paul used that is translated "perseverance" in Rom. 5:3, is essentially the same word translated "endures" here in James 1:12, being the verb form of the noun. And so the congruity of thought between these two great apostles runs much deeper then one might first think. And so with all that done, let us go back and again and consider James opening exhortation: "Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. " Vs. 12
And so God's blessing comes on all who endure trials and temptations, for when we been approved, we will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. Therefore we are called and equipped by God to endure temptations, not fold while we are in them, but with the Lord Jesus strengthening us by His Spirit within us, we are too endure with Him through them. So that we may receive at the end of our mortal lives, the crown of life. For truly this world in many ways is a "proving ground" for God's children until we finally get to go home to be with Him forever. For in this unregenerate world there is much evil and injustice; and thus hostility towards those who seek to live Godly lives is sadly the norm rather than the exception (2 Tim 3:12; Rev. 12:17). Yet with Lord Jesus Christ's regeneration of all things, Satan's tyranny in this world and his influence over it's people and affairs will forever end (Isaiah 65:17; 2 Peter 3:13; Rev. 20:10; 21:1-8 etc.). And so our lives here and now while we are in it, yet not of it, are to be lived in a state of "separation to Christ" in expectation of that Day (consider 2 Cor 6:14-7:1; 1 John 3:1-3; Rev 18:1-8, vs. 3-4). For it is the Lord Jesus Christ Himself who will bestow on every believer who endured temptation while here "the crown of life" as the supreme honor on all who remained faithful to Him and did not yield to this world and the Godless values of it. Now the crown of life that the Apostle James mentions here, is also spoken of the by the Lord Jesus Christ in Rev. 2:10 where in exhorting the ancient church in Smyrna, He says: "Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life." Thus every believer who endures temptation is blessed, and will be blessed, because when they have been approved, they will receive the crown of life. Which again is a honor that the Lord will bestow on each and every believer who endured temptations, and thus overcame the evil one. And so in this life though trials and tribulations, ridicule and mocking, and persecution, to lesser or greater degrees is more often than not the norm for those who live, and seek to live Godly lives (2 Tim. 3:12). Yet there will be a day when each and every believer who held fast to the Lord Jesus Christ and kept His commandments will be both honored as well as rewarded by Him.

 Vs. 13-15 ¹³ Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. ¹⁴ But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. ¹⁵ Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death.

Now the question of temptation and it's source in our lives. Though this may seem quite ambiguous at times. Yet the Apostle James sees no ambiguity as to its source. Attributing it too neither the devil, (who though he strives to tempt us, is not the source of our being tempted) nor is it our loving Father (who will, as already shown, test us at various times, same word) but He will not as some have misunderstood the Lord's prayer tempt us to sin against Him, as the Apostle James clearly states here: "Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone." vs. 13
Thus the source of temptation in our lives is our own desires. For too even consider the One who first saved us from our sins as the possible originator of sinful temptations in our lives is utterly ludicrous. Yes the Lord's prayer specifically states that we should pray "lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one". But temptation there is not of God tempting us with evil, rather Jesus' Words are instructing us too petition the Lord not to bring us into times of testing that we cannot endure, or at least not endure without Him, (thus it is a prayer declaring our need for Him, as well as our dependence on Him), while the second half of the prayer is calling us to petition Him for our deliverance from the evil one. Therefore we should never presume upon doing this ourselves, or for anyone else. That said, God does not forsake us to either temptations or Satan, (consider Heb 12:1-6; 13:5). Rather as the Apostle Paul states God is faithful to always provide a way of escape so that we might be able to endure it. "No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it." 1 Cor 10:13
Thus temptation, is never said to be removed from our lives simply because we believe in Jesus. Rather God restricts both the intensity and or the duration, while providing a way of escape for us. Thus we are given the Scriptural promise of God's help, who will always provide a way of escape for us, so that we can endure or escape every temptation that we will face in this life. Which can take innumerable forms from literally fleeing, too forsaking those "friendships" or relationships or things or places that are clearly detrimental to our well being and thus our being faithful to the Lord. Same with what we yield our eyes, hands, and heart too. If we know we have a weakness in a certain area of life then clearly it is not wise for us to try too "entertain" it. Since as James warns here, each one of us is tempted when we let our own desires (i.e. strong longings, fleshly lusts, sinful passions etc.) draw us away and we are enticed, and thus when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death. And so the progression is self-evident to us all because we have all experienced it. Therefore it is our responsibility to avail ourselves of God's provisions for us and not keep on a path that will only lead to our own ruin and death.

Does this then mean we will go through this life with out ever falling? I don't think so. For we will all stumble to lessor or greater degrees, and by this some will be refined and purified in their faith. And so God gives us the promise of His forgiveness and cleansing when we confess and forsake our sins (1 John 1:9). Thus when we fall He chastens us when we need chastening, or He strengthens us when we need strengthening, or He encourages us when we need encouraging. According to each and every circumstance which we go through and which He understands perfectly, God always has our best interest at heart. And so here in these verses the Apostle James is rebuking our natural tendencies to divert responsibility from ourselves and instead blame God for our yielding ourselves too our own desires (Gr. epithymia). And so in the New Testament, as TDNTA indicates, "NT statements about epithymía belong to the message of repentance and self-denial. epithymía is impulse, lust, or anxious self-seeking. It shows us what we really are. Even after reception of the Spirit, it remains a danger."

Again it is ones own sinful desires that first tempts one, and snares one, if one yields themselves to them. Just as God told Cain back in the beginning when He said to him, "If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it." Gen. 4:7 Thus the responsibility for our behavior lies with us, not God.

Vs. 16-18 And so, having exposed our natural tendencies to blame God for our yielding ourselves to our own sinful desires. The Apostle James now tells us not to be deceived, my beloved brethren (vs. 16). For as he says "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. ¹⁸ Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures." vs 17-18
Thus evil in our hearts and lives does not originate with God, it originates with us. And that is both the current state, as well as the collective story of humanity apart from the life of God. But that is not the end of the story, as the Apostle James goes on to say, for "every good and perfect gift is from above and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning." Therefore God knowing our condition did not leave us to our lost and separated state. Instead in the fullness of time He sent forth His only Son Jesus Christ to both pay our sins penalty, by His own death on a cross. But also through His Son, God brings us to life by His Holy Spirit indwelling us, which occurs the moment we believe in Jesus Christ (Eph. 1:13-14). So that by His first having made atonement for all our sins, He could bring us to Spiritual life and restore us too a right relationship with Himself through the Perfect gift of His Son Jesus Christ. For as James says, "Of His own will He brought us forth by the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of His creatures." Vs. 18

Thus our salvation has it's origins in God, in His Word, just as every good and perfect gift does. For God does not "vary" or "turn" like the shadows which the sun casts on the earth. God's Eternally Good and  Perfect Character never ceases, nor does He change (Malachi 3:6). Therefore if anyone seeks Him in faith they will find Him and have from Him, eternal life, the Greatest and Most Perfect Gift of all, given to us all, through His Son Jesus Christ.

I don't know where you are at today, but I do know this. That God loves you and He wants the best for you. And this He will do for you when you see your need for Him and come home to Him by faith in Jesus Christ. For every good and perfect gift from God ultimately begins with His Son, first receiving His Son, then obeying His Son. For that is what God requires of us, to both believe in Him and obey Him through His Son Jesus Christ. For it is only then that we find both our purposes in this life as well as the meaning for our lives, and thus His blessing in our lives, when we follow Jesus.
If you have not yet received the Lord Jesus Christ you can, by a simple prayer of faith you can invite Him into your heart and life to be your Lord and Savior, and thus you too can have remission of all your sins and everlasting life the moment you believe in Him (Eph. 1:13-14). Therefore if you believe and want to receive the Lord Jesus Christ, simply pray something like this: "Dear Lord Jesus I believe in You, and want You to be my Lord and my Savior, therefore I now invite You into my heart life, trusting only Your crucifixion death on the cross for all my sins remission, in your name Lord Jesus amen. "


Scripture Citations
The New King James Version. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1982