James 3:17

James 3:17 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere.

King James Version KJV

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

American Standard Version ASV

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without variance, without hypocrisy.

Bible in Basic English BBE

But the wisdom which is from heaven is first holy, then gentle, readily giving way in argument, full of peace and mercy and good works, not doubting, not seeming other than it is.

Free Bible Version FBV

However, wisdom that comes from above is first of all pure, and it also brings peace. It is kind and open to reason. It is full of mercy and produces good things. It is genuine and not hypocritical.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

But the wisedome that is from aboue, is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, easie to be intreated, full of mercie and good fruites, without iudging, and without hipocrisie.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

and the wisdom from above, first, indeed, is pure, then peaceable, gentle, easily entreated, full of kindness and good fruits, uncontentious, and unhypocritical: —

World English Bible WEB

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceful, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

But the wisdom, that is from above, first indeed is chaste, then peaceable, modest, easy to be persuaded, consenting to the good, full of mercy and good fruits, without judging, without dissimulation.

Translation for Translators T4T

But when people are wise [PRS] in the way that God [MTY] wants them to be, they are pure in every way, which God considers to be very important. They also act peaceably towards others, they ◄are considerate of/think about the rights and feelings of► others, they are willing to yield to the wishes of others, they act compassionately toward others, and they do all kinds of good things for others [MET]. How they treat others does not depend on ◄others’ status/whether others are important or not►, and they are sincere in all they do.

Plain English Version PEV

But whenever we think God’s way, we are like this, – We keep away from doing anything bad. – We want to make other people happy, and we want to help them to be friends with each other. – We are easy on other people, not hard. – We listen to people and let them get a fair go. – We feel sorry for people that have problems, and we do everything we can to help them. – We are fair to everybody. We don’t treat some people good and other people like they are rubbish. – We don’t pretend that we are better than we really are.

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Berean Amplified Bible — James 3:17

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

James 3:17 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

GRK η δε ανωθεν σοφια πρωτον μεν αγνη εστιν επειτα ειρηνικη επιεικης ευπειθης μεστη ελεους και καρπων αγαθων αδιακριτος και ανυποκριτος

η ho G3588 the/this/who Art-NSF

δε de G1161 then Conj

ανωθεν anōthen G509 from above/again Adv

σοφια sophia G4678 wisdom Noun-NSF

πρωτον prōton G4412 first Adv-S

μεν men G3303 on the other hand Particle

αγνη hagnos G53 pure Adj-NSF

εστιν eimi G1510 to be Verb-PAI-3S

επειτα epeita G1899 then Adv

ειρηνικη eirēnikos G1516 peaceful Adj-NSF

επιεικης epieikēs G1933 gentle Adj-NSF

ευπειθης eupeithēs G2138 compliant Adj-NSF

μεστη mestos G3324 full Adj-NSF

ελεους eleos G1656 mercy Noun-GSN

και kai G2532 and Conj

καρπων karpos G2590 fruit Noun-GPM

αγαθων agathos G18 good Adj-GPM

αδιακριτος adiakritos G87 impartial Adj-NSF

και kai G2532 and Conj

ανυποκριτος anupokritos G505 genuine Adj-NSF

Greek Word Study

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Greek Word Reference — James 3:17

η ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-NSF

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Definition: ὁ, ἡ, τό, the prepositive article (ἄρθρον προτακτικόν), originally a demonstr. pron. (so usually in Hom.), in general corresponding to the Eng. definite article. __I. As demonstr. pron. __1. As frequently in Hom., absol., he (she, it), his (etc.): Act.17:28 (quoted from the poet Aratus). __2. Distributive, ὁ μὲν . . . ὁ δέ, the one . . . the other: 1Co.7:7, Gal.4:22; pl., Act.14:4, 17:32, Php.1:16, al.; οἱ μὲν . . . ἄλλοι δέ, Mat.16:14, Jhn.7:12; οἱ μεν̀ . . . ὁδέ, Heb.7:21, 23. __3. In narration (without ὁ μὲν preceding), ὁ δέ, but he: Mat.2:14, Mrk.1:45, Luk.8:21, Jhn.9:38, al. mult. __II. As prepositive article, the, prefixed, __1. to nouns unmodified: ὁ θεός, τὸ φῶς, etc.; to abstract nouns, ἡ σοφία, etc., to pl. nouns which indicate a class, οἱ ἀλώπεκες, foxes, Mat.8:20, al.; to an individual as representing a class, ὁ ἐργάτης, Luk.10:7; with nom. = voc. in addresses, Mat.11:26, Jhn.19:3, Jas.5:1, al.; to things which pertain to one, ἡ χεῖρ, his hand, Mrk.3:1; to names of persons well known or already mentioned; usually to names of countries (originally adjectives), ἡ Ἰουδαία, etc. __2. To modified nouns: with of person(s) pron. genitive, μοῦ, σοῦ, etc.; with poss. pron., ἐμός, σός, etc.; with adj. between the art. and the noun, ὁ ἀγαθὸς ἄνθρωπος, Mat.12:35; the noun foll, by adj., both with art., ὁ ποιμὴν ὁ καλός, Jhn.10:11 (on ὁ ὄχλος πολύς, Jhn.12:9, see M, Pr., 84); before adjectival phrases, ἡ κατ᾽ ἐκλογὴν πρόθεσις, Rom.9:11. __3. To Other parts of speech used as substantives; __(a) neuter adjectives: τ. ἀγαθόν, etc.; __(b) cardinal numerals: ὁ εἶς, οἷ δύο, etc.; __(with) participles: ὁ βαπτίζων (= ὁ Βαπτιστής, Mat.14:2), Mrk.6:14; πᾶς ὁ, with ptcp., every one who, etc.; __(d) adverbs: τὸ πέραν, τὰ νῦν, ὁ ἔσω ἄνθρωπος; __(e) infinitives: nom., τὸ θέλειν, Rom.7:18, al.; genitive, τοῦ, after adjectives, ἄξιον τοῦ πορεύεσθαι, 1Co.16:4; verbs, ἐλαχεν τοῦ θυμιᾶσαι, Luk.1:9; and frequently in a final sense, ἐξῆλθεν ὁ σπείρειν, Mat.13:3 (on the artic. inf., see Bl., §71). __4. In the neut. to sentences, phrases or single words treated as a quotation: τὸ Ἐι δύνῃ, Mrk.9:23; τὸ ἔτι ἅπαξ, Heb.12:27; τὸ ἀνέβη, Eph.4:9, al. __5. To prepositional phrases: οἱ ἀπὸ Ἰταλίας, Heb.13:24; οἱ ἐκ νόμου, Rom.4:14; neut. accusative absol., in adverbial phrases, τὸ καθ᾽ ἡμέραν, daily, Luk.11:3; τὸ κατὰ σάρκα, as regards the flesh, Rom.9:5. __6. To nouns in the genitive, denoting kinship, association, etc.: ὁ τοῦ, the son of (unless context indicates a different relationship), Mat.10:2, al.; τὰ τοῦ θεοῦ, the things that pertain to God, Mat.16:23; τὰ τῆς εἰρήνης, Rom.14:19 (cf. M, Pr., 81ff.; Bl, §§46, 47). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

δε de G1161 "then" Conj

This is a conjunction that means and, but, or then, used to connect ideas like in Matthew 1:2 and 2 Corinthians 6:15.

Definition: δέ (before vowels δ᾽; on the general neglect of the elision in NT, see WH, App., 146; Tdf., Pr., 96), post-positive conjunctive particle; __1. copulative, but, in the next place, and, now (Abbott, JG, 104): Mat.1:2ff., 2Co.6:15, 16, 2Pe.1:5-7; in repetition for emphasis, Rom.3:21, 22, 9:30, 1Co.2:6, Gal.2:2, Php.2:8; in transition to something new, Mat.1:18, 2:19, Luk.13:1, Jhn.7:14, Act.6:1, Rom.8:28, 1Co.7:1 8:1, al.; in explanatory parenthesis or addition, Jhn.3:19, Rom.5:8, 1Co.1:12, Eph.2:4, 5:32, al.; ὡς δέ, Jhn.2:9; καὶ . . . δέ, but also, Mat.10:18, Luk.1:76, Jhn.6:51, Rom.11:23, al.; καὶ ἐὰν δέ, yea even if, Jhn.8:16. __2. Adversative, but, on the other hand, prop., answering to a foregoing μέν (which see), and distinguishing a word or clause from one preceding (in NT most frequently without μέν; Bl., §77, 12): ἐὰν δέ, Mat.6:14, 23, al.; ἐγὼ (σὺ, etc.) δέ, Mat.5:22, 6:6, Mrk.8:29, al.; ὁ δέ, αὐτὸς δέ, Mrk.1:45, Luk.4:40, al.; after a negation, Mat.6:19, 20, Rom.3:4, 1Th.5:21, al. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2552 NT verses. KJV: also, and, but, moreover, now (often unexpressed in English) See also: 1 Corinthians 1:10; 1 Corinthians 12:9; 1 Peter 1:7.

ανωθεν anōthen G509 "from above/again" Adv

From above can mean coming from heaven, like Jesus coming from heaven in John 3:31. It can also mean again or anew, like being born again in John 3:3.

Definition: ἄνωθεν adv (ἄνω), __(a) from above: ἀπὸ ἄ., Mat.27:51, Mrk.15:38; ἐκ τῶν ἄ., Jhn.19:28; meaning, from heaven: Jhn.3:31 19:11, Jas.1:17 3:15, 17 . __(b) from the first, from the beginning: Luk.1:3, Act.26:5; whence __(with) anew, again: Jhn.3:3, 7, (so most, but see Meyer, in l; cf. Field, Notes, 86 f.); πάλιν ἄ., Gal.4:9 (MM, VGT, see word).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 13 NT verses. KJV: from above, again, from the beginning (very first), the top See also: Acts 26:5; John 3:7; James 1:17.

σοφια sophia G4678 "wisdom" Noun-NSF

Wisdom refers to higher or spiritual understanding, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 2:1 and James 3:15.

Definition: σοφία, -ας, ἡ [in LXX chiefly for חׇכְמָה ;] skill, intelligence, wisdom, ranging from knowledge of the arts and matters of daily life to mental excellence in its highest and fullest sense; __(a) of human wisdom: 1Co.2:1 2:4-5, Jas.3:15, Rev.13:18 17:9; σ. Σολομῶνος, Mat.12:42, Luk.11:31; Αἰγυπτίων, Act.7:22; Ἕλληνες σ. ζητοῦσιν, 1Co.1:22; σ. λόγου, 1Co.1:17; τ. σοφῶν, 1Co.1:19 (LXX); τ. κόσμου, 1Co.1:20-21 3:19; ἀνθρωπίνη, 1Co.2:13; σαρκική, 2Co.1:12; of wisdom in spiritual things: Luk.21:15, Act.6:3, 10 7:10, 1Co.2:6, Col.1:28 2:23 3:16 4:5, Jas.1:5 3:13, 17, 2Pe.3:15; λόγος σοφίας, 1Co.12:8; πνεῦμα σοφίας, Eph.1:17; σ. καὶ φρόνησις, Eph.1:8; σ. καὶ σύνεσις, Col.1:9; __(b) of divine wisdom: of God, Rom.11:33, 1Co.1:21 1:24 2:7, Rev.7:12; πολυποίκιλος, Eph.3:10 of Christ, Mat.13:54, Mrk.6:2, Luk.2:40, 52, 1Co.1:30 Col.2:3, Rev.5:12; of wisdom personified, Mat.11:19, Luk.7:35 11:49.† SYN.: σύνεσις, intelligence; φρόνησις, prudence, which with σ. make up (Arist., N. Eth., i, 13) the three intellectual ἀρεταί. σ. is wisdom primary and absolute; in distinction from which φ. is practical, σύνεσις critical, both being applications of σ. in detail (cf. Lft., and ICC on Col.1:9; Lft., Notes, 317 f.; Tr., Syn., § LXXv; Cremer, 870 ff.). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 49 NT verses. KJV: wisdom See also: 1 Corinthians 1:17; Colossians 2:23; James 1:5.

πρωτον prōton G4412 "first" Adv-S

The word for first in time, place, or importance, used in Ephesians 4:22 and John 7:50. It can also mean before or formerly, as seen in 2 Corinthians 1:15 and Hebrews 4:6.

Definition: πρῶτον, πρῶτος, see: πρότερος A. Compar., πρότερος, -α, -ον, [in LXX for רִאשׁוֹן ,לִפָנִים, etc. ;] before, of time, place, rank, etc.; in NT always of Time, before, former: Eph.4:22. Adverbially, πρότερον, before, aforetime, formerly: Jhn.7:50, 2Co.1:15, Heb.4:6; opposite to ἔπειτα, Heb.7:27; τὸ π., Jhn.6:62 9:8, Gal.4:13, 1Ti.1:13; αἱ π. ἡμέραι, Heb.10:32; αἱ π. ἐπιθυμίαι, 1Pe.1:14.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 60 NT verses. KJV: before, at the beginning, chiefly (at, at the) first (of all) See also: 1 Corinthians 11:18; Luke 10:5; 1 Peter 4:17.

μεν men G3303 "on the other hand" Particle

This word means 'on the other hand' and is often used to contrast ideas. It appears in the New Testament, like in John and Romans, to show a difference between two things. It's usually translated as 'even' or 'indeed'.

Definition: μέν, conjunctive particle (originally a form of μήν), usually related to a following δέ or other adversative conjunction, and distinguishing the word or clause with which it stands from that which follows. It is generally untranslatable and is not nearly so frequent in NT as in cl. Like δέ, it never stands first in a clause. __1. Answered by δέ or some other particle: μὲν . . . δέ, indeed . . . but, Mat.3:11, Luk.3:16, al.; with pronouns, ὃς μὲν . . . ὃς δέ, one . . . another, Mat.21:35, al.; pl., Php.1:16, 17; ὃ μὲν . . . ὃ δὲ . . . ὃ δέ, some . . . some . . . some, Mat.13:8; τοῦτο μὲν . . . τοῦτο δέ, partly . . . partly, Heb.10:33; μὲν . . . ἔπειτα, Jhn.11:6; μὲν . . . καί, Luk.8:5. __2. μέν solitarium, answered by no other particle: πρῶτον μέν (Bl., l.with), Rom.1:8 3:2, 1Co.11:18; μὲν οὖν in narrative, summing up what precedes or introducing something further (Bl., §78, 5), so then, rather, nay rather: Luk.11:28 (WH, μενοῦν), Act.1:6 9:31, al.; μὲν οὖν γε (Php.3:8, WH): see: μενοῦνγε. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 194 NT verses. KJV: even, indeed, so, some, truly, verily See also: 1 Corinthians 1:12; Hebrews 3:5; 1 Peter 1:20.

αγνη hagnos G53 "pure" Adj-NSF

Pure or clean, like being innocent and modest. It's used to describe someone who is free from wrongdoing, like in 2 Corinthians 7:11.

Definition: ἁγνός, -ή, -όν (ἅγος, see: ἅγιος), [in LXX chiefly for טָהוֹר (Pss, and Pr. only), also 2Ma.13:8, 4Ma.18:7, al. ;] __1. free from ceremonial defilement, in a condition prepared for worship (for exx. of pagan usage, V. MM, VGT, see word). __2. holy, sacred, venerable (II Mac, l.with). __3. As in OT (cl.), pure, chaste, undefiled, guiltless; __(a) of persons: 2Co.7:11 11:12, 1Ti.5:22, Tit.2:5, 1Jn.3:3; __(b) of things: Php.4:8, Jas.3:17, 1Pe.3:2. † SYN.: εἰλικρινής (which see), pure, primarily as winnowed, purged, first found in ethical sense in NT (sincere). On the equivalence of ἁ. and καθαρός (which see), see DCG, ii, 459a though Westc. (Epp. Jo., 101) notes a distinction between them. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 8 NT verses. KJV: chaste, clean, pure See also: 1 John 3:3; 2 Corinthians 11:2; 1 Peter 3:2.

εστιν eimi G1510 "to be" Verb-PAI-3S

To be or exist, a basic verb used to describe something or someone, like God saying 'I am' in John 8:58.

Definition: εἰμί, with various uses and significations, like the English verb to be. __I. As substantive verb. __1. Of persons and things, to be, exist: Act.17:28, Jhn.1:1, 8:58, 17:5, al; ὁ ὢν καὶ ὁ ἦν (for past ptcp.), Rev.1:4, 8, 4:8, 11:17, 16:5 (see Swete, Ap., 5; M, Pr., 228); τὰ (μὴ) ὄντα, Rom.4:17, 1Co.1:28. __2. Of times, events, etc., to be, happen, take place: Mat.24:3, Mrk.14:2, 15:42, Luk.21:23, Jhn.4:6, 23, 5:10, al. __3. to be present, be in a place, have come: Mat.2:13, 15, Mrk.1:45, 5:21, 15:40, Luk.1:80, 5:29, Jhn.7:30, al.; before εἰς, Mrk.2:1; before ἐκ, (ἐξ), Mat.1:20, 21:25, Mrk.11:30, Jhn.3:31, al. __4. Impers., ἔστι, ἦν, etc.; __(a) there is (Fr. il y a), was, etc.: Mat.16:28, Luk.16:19, Jhn.3:1, 5:2, Rom.3:10, al.; with dative (of the possessor; Bl., §37, 3), Mat.16:22, Luk.1:7, Jhn.18.10, Rom.9:2, al.; ἔστιν ὅς, ὅστις (chiefly in pl), Mat.16:28, 19:2, Mrk.9:1, al.; __(b) with inf., = ἔξεστιν (which see), it is possible: Heb.9:5, 1Co.11:20, RV (but see ICC, in l.). __II. As copula uniting subject and predicate. __1. Expressing simply identity or equivalence: Mat.5:13, 14:15, Luk.1:18, 19, Jhn.1:1, 4:19, Rev.3:9, al. mult. __2. Explicative, as in parable, figure, type, etc.: Mat.13:19, 1Co.9:2, 10:4, 11:25, Gal.4:24, Rev.17:15, al.; ταῦτ᾽ ἔστιν, Mat.27:46, Mrk.7:2, Rom.7:18 al.; ὅ ἐστιν, Mrk.3:17, Col.1:24, Heb.7:2, al.; akin to this is the sacramental usage: Mat.26:26-28, Mrk.14:22, 24, Luk.22:19, 1Co.11:24 (see ICC on Mk, I Co, ll. with; DB, iii, 148 f.). __3. C. genitive: qual., etc., Mrk.5:42, Luk.3:23, 1Co.14:33, Heb.12:11, al.; part., 1Ti.1:20, 2Ti.1:15; poss., Mat.5:3, 10, Mrk.12:7, Luk.4:7; of service or partisanship, Rom.8:9, 1Co.1:12, 2Co.10:7, 2Ti.2:19. __4. C. dative (BL, §37, 3): Act.1:8, 9:15, Rom.4:12, 1Co.1:18, 2:14, Rev.21:7, al. __5. C. ptcp., as a periphrasis for the simple verb (Bl., §62, 1, 2; M, Pr., 225 ff.); __(a) with ptcp. pf. (cl.): Mat.10:30, Luk.9:32, Jhn.3:24, Act.21:35, 1Co.15:19, al; __(b) with ptcp. pr. (esp. in impf., as in Heb. and Aram.; Dalman, Words, 35 f.), Mat.7:29, Mrk.1:22, Luk.4:31, 14:1, Act.1:10, al. mult., id. for imper. (M, Pr., 180f., 182f.), with ellipsis of εἰμί, Rom.12:9, 10, Heb.13:5, al.; __(with) with ptcp. aor. (cl), Luk.23:9. __6. Seq. εἰς (cf. Heb. הָיָה לְ), a vernac. usage (M, Pr., 71): Mat.19:5, Mrk.10:8, Heb.8:10, al. __7. C. adv.: Mat.19:20, Mrk.4:26, Luk.18:11, al. __8. Ellipses; __(a) of the copula (Bl., §30, 3): Mat.8:29, 24:32, Jhn.21:22, 23, Heb.6:4, al.; __(b) of the predicate: ἐγώ εἰμί, Mat.14:27, Mrk.6:50, al.; absol. (cf. Deu.32:39; אֲנִי הוּא), Mrk.13:6, Jhn.4:26, al. (cf. ἄπ-, ἔν-, πάρ-, συμ-πάρ-, σύν-ειμι). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2123 NT verses. KJV: am, have been, X it is I, was See also: 1 Corinthians 1:2; 1 Corinthians 13:2; 1 Peter 1:6.

επειτα epeita G1899 "then" Adv

Then or thereafter, showing a sequence of events. The Bible uses it in Luke 16:7 and Galatians 1:21 to describe what happens next.

Definition: ἐπειτα, adv. of sequence [in LXX: Num.19:10 A, Isa.16:2, 4Ma.6:3 * ;] thereupon, thereafter, then: Luk.16:7, Gal.1:21, Jas.4:14; before μετὰ τοῦτο, Jhn.11:7; μετὰ ἔτη τρία, Gal.1:18; διὰ δεκατεσσάρων ἐτῶν, Gal.2:1; πρῶτον . . . ἔ., 1Co.15:46, 1Th.4:17, Heb.7:2; πρότεφον . . . ἔ, Heb.7:27; ἀπαρχὴ . . . ἔ., 1Co.15:23; εἶτα . . . ἔ., 1Co.15:5-6 (WH, txt.); . . . ἔ., 1Co.15:5-7 (WH, mg.); τρίτον . . . ἔ. (his), 1Co.12:28.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 16 NT verses. KJV: after that(-ward), then See also: 1 Corinthians 12:28; Galatians 2:1; Hebrews 7:2.

ειρηνικη eirēnikos G1516 "peaceful" Adj-NSF

This word means peaceful, describing a calm and serene state, as seen in Hebrews 12:11 and James 3:17. It implies a sense of inner peace and tranquility. It is translated as peaceable in the KJV.

Definition: είρηνικός, -ή, -όν (εἰρήνη), [in LXX for שָׁלוֹם and cognates ;] peaceful: Heb.12:11, Jas.3:17.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2 NT verses. KJV: peaceable See also: Hebrews 12:11; James 3:17.

επιεικης epieikēs G1933 "gentle" Adj-NSF

Being gentle, fair, and moderate, as seen in 1 Timothy 3:3, where elders are instructed to be gentle and moderate in their leadership.

Definition: ἐπιεικής, -ές (εἰκός, likely), [in LXX: Psa.86:5 (סַלָּח), Est.8:13 * ;] __1. seemly, fitting (Hom.). __2. equitable, fair, moderate: 1Ti.3:3, Tit.3:2, 1Pe.2:18, Jas.3:17; τὸ ἐ. (Thuc., i, 76), Php.4:5 (cf. Mayor, Ja, l.with, and see: ἐπιεικία).† ἐπιείκεια see: ἐπιεικία ἐπιεικία (Rec. -είκεια), -ας, ἡ (ἐπιεικής), [in LXX: Wis.2:19 12:18 Bar.2:27, from LXX Bar.4:24, TH (3:42), 2Ma.2:22 2Mac 10:4, 3Ma.3:15 3Mac 7:6 * ;] fairness, moderation, gentleness ("sweet reasonableness," Matthew Arnold): Act.24:4; with πραΰτης, 2Co.10:1.† SYN.: πραΰτης (see Tr., Syn., § xliii) (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 5 NT verses. KJV: gentle, moderation, patient See also: 1 Peter 2:18; James 3:17; Titus 3:2.

ευπειθης eupeithēs G2138 "compliant" Adj-NSF

This word describes someone who is easy to get along with and obedient. In James 3:17, it says that wisdom from above is compliant and gentle.

Definition: εὐ-πειθής, ές, (εὖ, πείθομαι), [in LXX: 4Ma.12:6 AR* ;] ready to obey, compliant: Jas.3:17.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: easy to be intreated See also: James 3:17.

μεστη mestos G3324 "full" Adj-NSF

This word means being full of something, like feelings or thoughts. In John 19:29 and 21:11, it describes being full of fish or a drink. It can also describe being full of emotions or ideas, as in Matthew 23:28.

Definition: μεστός, -ή, -όν [in LXX: Nam.1:10, Eze.37:1 (מָלֵא), Est.5:2, Pro.6:34 * ;] full: with genitive of thing(s), Jhn.19:29 21:11, Jas.3:8; metaphorically, of thoughts and feelings, Mat.23:28, Rom.1:29 15:14, 2Pe.2:14, Jas.3:17 (cf. Pr, l.with).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 8 NT verses. KJV: full See also: 2 Peter 2:14; John 21:11; James 3:8.

ελεους eleos G1656 "mercy" Noun-GSN

This word means showing mercy or pity, like when Jesus taught about mercy in Matthew 9:13 and 12:7. It's about being compassionate towards others, just like God shows us mercy.

Definition: ἔλεος, -ους, τό (cl. -ου, ὁ, and so Rec., Mat.9:13 12:7 23:23, Tit.3:5, Heb.4:16; on the Hellenistic form τό ἔ., see WH, App., 158; M, Pr., 60; Mayser, 277; Kühner, i, 515), [in LXX chiefly for חֶסֶד ;] mercy, pity, compassion; __1. of men: Mat.9:13 (LXX) Mat.12:7 23:23; ποιεῖν ἔ. (and id. before μετά, with genitive; cf. Heb. עִם חֶסֶד עָשָׂה, Gen.21:23, al.), Luk.10:37, Jas.2:13 3:17. __2. Of God: Luk.1:50, 54 1:58, Rom.15:9, Eph.2:4, 2Ti.1:16 1:18, Tit.3:5, Heb.4:16, 1Pe.1:3; esp. in benedictions, Gal.6:16, 1Ti.1:2, 2Ti.1:2, 2Jn.3, Ju 2; σκευὴ ἐλέους, Rom.9:23; σπλάγχνα ἐλέους, Luk.1:78; ποιεῖν ἔ. (see supr.), Luk.1:72; τ. ὑμετέρῳ ἐλέει, Rom.11:31. __3. Of Christ: Ju 21.† SYN.: οἰκτιρμός (see: ἐλεέω) (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 27 NT verses. KJV: (+ tender) mercy See also: 1 Peter 1:3; Luke 1:50; Hebrews 4:16.

και kai G2532 "and" Conj

And or also, a connecting word used to join ideas or words, like in Matthew 2:18 and Hebrews 1:1.

Definition: καί, conj., and __I. Copulative. __1. Connecting single words; __(a) in general: Mat.2:18, 16:1, Mrk.2:15, Luk.8:15, Heb.1:1, al. mult.; repeated before each of the terms in a series, Mat.23:23, Luk.14:21, Rom.7:12, 9:4, al. __(b) connecting numerals (WM, §37, 4): Jhn.2:20, Act.13:20; __(with) joining terms which are not mutually exclusive, as the part with the whole: Mat.8:33, 26:59, Mrk.16:17, Act.5:29, al. __2. Connecting clauses and sentences: Mat.3:12, Act.5:21, al. mult.; esp. __(a) where, after the simplicity of the popular language, sentences are paratactically joined (WM, §60, 3; M, Pr., 12; Deiss., LAE, 128ff.): Mat.1:21, 7:25, Mrk.9:5, Jhn.10:3, al.; __(b) joining affirmative to negative sentences: Luk.3:14, Jhn.4:11, IIIJhn.10; __(with) consecutive, and so: Mat.5:1, 23:32, Heb.3:19, al.; after imperatives, Mat.4:19, Luk.7:7, al.; __(d) = καίτοι, and yet: Mat.3:14, 6:26, Mrk.12:12, Luk.18:7 (Field, Notes, 72), 1Co.5:2, al.; __(e) beginning an apodosis (= Heb. וְ; so sometimes δέ in cl.), then: Luk.2:21, 7:12, Act.1:10; beginning a question (WM, §53, 3a): Mrk.10:26, Luk.10:29, Jhn.9:36. __3. Epexegetic, and, and indeed, namely (WM, §53, 3c): Luk.3:18, Jhn.1:16, Act.23:6, Rom.1:5, 1Co.3:5, al. __4. In transition: Mat.4:23, Mrk.5:1, 21, Jhn.1:19, al.; so, Hebraistically, καὶ ἐγένετο (וַי:הִי; also ἐγένετο δέ), Mrk.1:9 (cf. Luk.5:1; V. Burton, §§357-60; M, Pr., 14, 16). __5. καὶ . . . καί, both . . . and (for τε . . . καί, see: τε); __(a) connecting single words: Mat.10:28, Mrk.4:41, Rom.11:33, al.; __(b) clauses and sentences: Mrk.9:13, Jhn.7:28, 1Co.1:22, al. __II. Adjunctive, also, even, still: Mat.5:39, 40; Mrk.2:28, al. mult.; esp. with pron., adv., etc., Mat.20:4, Jhn.7:47, al; ὡς κ., Act.11:17; καθὼς κ., Rom.15:7; οὑτω κ., Rom.6:11; διὸ κ., Luk.1:35; ὁ κ. (Deiss., BS, 313ff.), Act.13:9; pleonastically, μετὰ κ.. (Bl., §77, 7; Deiss., BS, 265f,), Php.4:3; τί κ., 1 Co 15:29; ἀλλὰ κ., Luk.14:22, Jhn.5:18, al.; καίγε (M, Pr., 230; Burton, §437), Act.17:27; καίπερ, Heb.5:8; κ. ἐάν, see: ἐάν. ἐάν, contr. fr. εἰ ἄν, conditional particle, representing something as "under certain circumstances actual or liable to happen," but not so definitely expected as in the case of εἰ with ind. (Bl., §65, 4; cf. Jhn.13:17, 1Co.7:36), if haply, if; __1. with subjc. (cl.); __(a) pres.: Mat.6:22, Luk.10:6, Jhn.7:17, Rom.2:25, 26 al.; { __(b) aor. (= Lat. fut. pf.): Mat.4:9 16:26 (cf. ptcp. in Luk.9:25; M, Pr., 230), Mrk.3:24, Luk.14:34, Jhn.5:43, Rom.7:2, al.; = cl. εἰ, with opt., Jhn.9:22 11:57, Act.9:2; as Heb. אִם = ὅταν, Jhn.12:32 14:3, I Jhn.2:28 3:2, Heb.3:7" (LXX) . __2. C. indic, (as in late writers, fr. Arist. on; see WH, App., 171; VD, MGr. 2, App., §77; Deiss., BS, 201f., LAE, 155, 254; M, Pr., 168, 187; Bl., §65, 4); __(a) fut.: Mat.18:19 T, Luk.19:40, Act.7:7; __(b) pres.: 1Th.3:8 (see Milligan, in l.). __3. With other particles: ἐ. καί (Bl., §65, 6), Gal.6:1; ἐ. μή (M, Pr., 185, 187; Bl., l.with), with subjc. pres., Mat.10:13, 1Co.8:8, Jas.2:17, 1Jn.3:21; aor., Mat.6:15, Mrk.3:27, Jhn.3:3, Rom.10:15, Gal.1:8 2:16 (see Lft., Ellic., in ll.); ἐ. τε . . . ἐ. τε, [in LXX for אִם . . . אִם, Est.19:13, al.,] Rom.14:8. __4. = cl. ἄν (which see) after relat. pronouns and adverbs (Tdf., Pr., 96; WH, App., 173; M, Pr., 42f.; Bl., §26, 4; Mayser, 152f.; Deiss., BS, 202ff.): ὃς ἐ., Mat.5:19, Mrk.6:22, 23 Luk.17:32, 1Co.6:18, al.; ὅπου ἐ., Mat.8:19; ὁσάκις ἐ., Rev.11:6; οὗ ἐ., 1Co.16:6; καθὸ ἐ., 2Co.8:12; ὅστις ἐ., Gal.5:10. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 5212 NT verses. KJV: and, also, both, but, even, for, if, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Corinthians 16:1.

καρπων karpos G2590 "fruit" Noun-GPM

Fruit refers to the product of something, like a tree or a person's actions, as in Matthew 12:33 and 21:19. It can be literal or figurative, representing the results of our labor.

Definition: καρπός, -οῦ, ὁ [in LXX chiefly for פְּרִי ;] fruit: of trees, Mat.12:33 21:19, Mrk.11:14, Luk.6:44 13:6-7; of vines, Mat.21:34, Mrk.12:2, Luk.20:10, 1Co.9:7; of fields, Mrk.4:29, Luk.12:17, 2Ti.2:6, Jas.5:7; βλαστάνειν, Jas.5:18; ποιεῖν (cf. Heb. פְּרִי עָשָׂה), Mat.3:10 7:17-19 13:26, Luk.3:9 6:43 8:8 13:9, Rev.22:2; διδόναι, Mat.13:8, Mrk.4:7-8; φέρειν, Mat.7:18, Jhn.12:24 15:2, 4-5 15:8, 16; ἀποδιδόναι, Mat.21:41, Rev.22:2; ὁ κ. τ. κοιλίας (בֶּטֶן פְּרִי, Deu.28:4), Luk.1:42; τ. ὀσφύος (Gen.30:2, al.), Act.2:30. Metaphorical, __(a) of works, deeds: Mat.3:8 7:16, 20 21:43, Luk.3:8, Jhn.15:3, 16; τ. πνεύματος, Gal.5:22; τ. φωτός, Eph.5:9; τ. δικαιοσύνης, Php.1:11; σφραγίζεσθαι τὸν κ. (Deiss., BS, 238 f.), Rom.15:28; κ. ἀγαθοί, Jas.3:17; __(b) of advantage, profit: Php.1:22 4:17; ἔχειν, Rom.1:13 6:21-22. συνάγειν, Jhn.4:36; κ. τ. δικαιοσύνης, Heb.12:11, Jas.3:18; of praise, καρπὸν χειλέων (Hos.14:2, al.; cf. Æsch., Eum., 830): Heb.13:15.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 56 NT verses. KJV: fruit See also: 1 Corinthians 9:7; Luke 20:10; Hebrews 12:11.

αγαθων agathos G18 "good" Adj-GPM

Good or beneficial, as seen in Luke 8:8 where it describes good soil producing a good crop. This word means something that is pleasant, useful, or morally good. In the Bible, it is used to describe things that are pleasing to God and beneficial to people.

Definition: ἀγαθός, -ή, -όν, [in LXX chiefly for טוֹב ;] in general, good, in physical and in moral sense, used of persons, things, acts, conditions, etc., applied to that which is regarded as "perfect in its kind, so as to produce pleasure and satisfaction, . . . that which, in itself good, is also at once for the good and the advantage of him who comes in contact with it" (Cremer, 3): γῆ, Luk.8:8; δένδρον, Mat.7:18; καρδία, Luk.8:15; δόσις, Jas.1:17; μέρις, Luk.10:42; ἔργον (frequently in Pl.), Php.1:6; ἐλπίς, 2Th.2:16; θησαυρός, Mat.12:35; μνεία, 1Th.3:6 (cf. 2Ma.7:20); as subst., τὸ ἀ, that which is morally good, beneficial, acceptable to God, Rom.12:2; ἐργάζεσθαι τὸ ἀ, Rom.2:10, Eph.4:28; πράσσειν, Rom.9:11, 2Co.5:10; διώκειν, 1Th.5:15; μιμεῖσθαι, III Jo 11; κολλᾶσθαι τῷ ἀ, Rom.12:9; ερωτᾶν περὶ τοῦ ἀ., Mat.19:17; διάκονος εἰς τὸ ἀ., Rom.13:4; τὸ ἀ. σου, thy favour, benefit, Phm 14; pl., τὰ ἀ., of goods, possessions, Luk.12:18; of spiritual benefits, Rom.10:15, Heb.9:11, 10:1. ἀ is opposite to πονηρός, Mat.5:45, 20:5; κακός, Rom.7:19; φαῦλος, Rom.9:11, 2Co.5:10 (cf. MM, VGT, see word). SYN.: καλός, δίκαιος. κ. properly refers to goodliness as manifested in form: ἀ. to inner excellence (cf. the cl. καλὸς κἀγαθός and ἐν καρδία κ. καὶ ἀ., Luk.8:15). In Rom.5:7, where it is contrasted with δ., ἀ. implies a kindliness and attractiveness not necessarily possessed by the δίκαιος, who merely measures up to a high standard of rectitude (cf. ἀγαθωσύνη). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 90 NT verses. KJV: benefit, good(-s, things), well See also: 1 Peter 2:18; Luke 16:25; 1 Peter 3:10.

αδιακριτος adiakritos G87 "impartial" Adj-NSF

Impartial means being unbiased or fair, as seen in James 3:17. It involves not showing favoritism or partiality. This concept is about treating everyone equally and without prejudice.

Definition: ἀ-διά-κριτος, -ον (διακρίνω), [in LXX: Pro.25:1 * ;] __1. not to be parted, mixed, undistinguishable (cf. Pr, l.with, and see Lft., Ignat. Eph., §3). __2. without uncertainty (Hort, in l., but see MM, VGT, see word): Jas.3:17. † (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: without partiality See also: James 3:17.

και kai G2532 "and" Conj

And or also, a connecting word used to join ideas or words, like in Matthew 2:18 and Hebrews 1:1.

Usage: Occurs in 5212 NT verses. KJV: and, also, both, but, even, for, if, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Corinthians 16:1.

ανυποκριτος anupokritos G505 "genuine" Adj-NSF

The Greek word for genuine or sincere, meaning without hypocrisy, is used in Romans 12:9 and 2 Timothy 1:5 to describe true love and faith. It means being real and authentic in our relationships with God and others. This word emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity.

Definition: ἀν-υπόκριτος, -ον (ά- neg., ὑποκρίνομαι) [in LXX: Wis.5:18 18:16 * ;] unfeigned: Rom.12:9, 2Co.6:6, 1Ti.1:5, 2Ti.1:5, Jas.3:17, 1Pe.1:22 (Cremer, 380; MM, VGT, see word).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 6 NT verses. KJV: without dissimulation (hypocrisy), unfeigned See also: 1 Peter 1:22; 2 Timothy 1:5; James 3:17.

Study Notes — James 3:17

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
James 3:17 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on James 3:17
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on James 3:17
Matthew Poole's Commentary on James 3:17
Trapp's Commentary on James 3:17
Ellicott's Commentary on James 3:17
Adam Clarke's Commentary on James 3:17
Cambridge Bible on James 3:17
Barnes' Notes on James 3:17
Whedon's Commentary on James 3:17
Sermons on James 3:17

Context — The Wisdom from Above

15Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every evil practice.

17But the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peace-loving, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and sincere.

18Peacemakers who sow in peace reap the fruit of righteousness.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Galatians 5:22–23	But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
2	Proverbs 2:6	For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.
3	1 Corinthians 13:4–7	Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no account of wrongs. Love takes no pleasure in evil, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
4	James 3:15	Such wisdom does not come from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.
5	Romans 12:9	Love must be sincere. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good.
6	James 1:5	Now if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
7	James 1:17	Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, with whom there is no change or shifting shadow.
8	1 Corinthians 2:6–7	Among the mature, however, we speak a message of wisdom—but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. No, we speak of the mysterious and hidden wisdom of God, which He destined for our glory before time began.
9	Matthew 5:8	Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
10	1 Peter 1:22	Since you have purified your souls by obedience to the truth so that you have a genuine love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from a pure heart.

James 3:17 Summary

The wisdom from above, as described in James 3:17, is a way of thinking and living that is pure, peaceful, and gentle. It's the opposite of the selfish and argumentative approach that often leads to conflict and hurt feelings (James 3:15-16). When we have the wisdom from above, we are able to approach life's challenges with a calm and peaceful heart, seeking to understand and love others as God loves us (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). By seeking God's wisdom and living according to His Word, we can reflect the qualities of the wisdom from above and experience greater peace and harmony in our lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the 'wisdom from above' mentioned in James 3:17?

The 'wisdom from above' refers to the wisdom that comes from God, as opposed to the earthly, unspiritual, and demonic wisdom mentioned in James 3:15. This wisdom is characterized by purity, peace, and gentleness, as seen in the fruit of the Spirit described in Galatians 5:22-23.

How can I know if I have the wisdom from above?

According to James 3:17, the wisdom from above is marked by qualities such as purity, peace-loving, and gentleness. If you are seeking to live a life that reflects these qualities, you can ask God for wisdom, as promised in James 1:5, and trust that He will provide it.

What is the relationship between wisdom and peace?

In James 3:17, wisdom from above is described as 'peace-loving', indicating that true wisdom is closely tied to peace. As mentioned in Psalms 119:165, 'those who love Your law have great peace', highlighting the connection between wisdom, peace, and a love for God's Word.

How does the wisdom from above impact my relationships with others?

The wisdom from above is characterized by qualities such as gentleness, mercy, and sincerity, which are essential for building healthy and harmonious relationships with others. As mentioned in Ephesians 4:32, we are called to 'be kind and compassionate to one another', reflecting the wisdom from above in our interactions with others.

Reflection Questions

In what ways can I cultivate the purity and peace that are characteristic of the wisdom from above in my own life?
How do I currently handle conflicts or difficult situations, and what would it look like for me to approach them with the gentleness and mercy mentioned in James 3:17?
What are some ways that I can demonstrate sincerity and impartiality in my relationships with others, reflecting the wisdom from above?
In what areas of my life do I need to seek the wisdom from above, and how can I trust God to provide it?

Gill's Exposition on James 3:17

But the wisdom that is from above,.... Which has God for its author; which is infused into the soul by the Spirit of God; and leads into the knowledge of things that are above, of heavenly things;

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on James 3:17

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on James 3:17

But the wisdom that is from above; true wisdom, which is of God, opposed to that which descendeth not from above, . Is first pure; either excluding mixture, and then it is opposed to hypocritical; or rather excluding filthiness, and then it is opposed to sensual, , and implies freedom from the defilement of sin and error, it being the property of true wisdom to make men adhere both to truth and holiness. Then peaceable; disposeth men to peace, both as to the making and keeping it, in opposition to strife and contention, which is the fruit of the earthly wisdom. Peaceableness, which relates to man, is set after purity, which respects God in the first place, to intimate, that purity must have the preference to peace. Our peace with men must always be with a salvo to our respects to God and holiness. Gentle; or equal, or moderate, . It implies that gentleness (as we translate it) whereby we bear with others’ infirmities, forgive injuries, interpret all things for the best, recede from our own right for peace sake; and is opposed to that austerity and rigidness in our practices and censures, which will bear with nothing in weak, dissenting, or offending brethren. Easy to be entreated; easily persuadable. True wisdom makes men yield to good admonitions, good counsel, good reason. This is opposed to implacableness, ; pride, and obstinacy in evil, 13:1. Full of mercy; a grace whereby we pity others that are afflicted, or that offend, and is opposed to inhumanity and inexorableness. And good fruits; beneficence, liberality, and all other offices of humanity, which proceed from mercy. Without partiality; or, without judging, i.e. either a curious inquiring into the faults of others, to find matter for censures, which many times infers wrangling, as our margin renders it; or a discerning between person and person, upon carnal accounts, which is partiality, as it is here translated, and . And without hypocrisy; or, counterfeiting, as they do that judge others, being guilty of the same things, or as bad, themselves: or hypocrisy may be here added, to show that sincerity is the perfection of all the rest before named; purity, peace, and gentleness, &c., may be counterfeit; hypocrisy spoils all; and therefore the wisdom that is from above is sincere, and without hypocrisy.

Trapp's Commentary on James 3:17

17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. Ver. 17. Easy to be entreated] Tractable, docile, not as horse and mule that must be ruled with rigour, not with reason, Psalms 32:9. Without partiality (or, without judging), without hypocrisy. These two stand fitly together; to note, that the greatest censurers are usually the greatest hypocrites; and as any one is more wise, he is more sparing of his censures.

Ellicott's Commentary on James 3:17

(17) But the wisdom that is from above . . .—Whereas, in sweetest contrast to all this repulsive foulness and riot, the true wisdom from above is first pure, chaste as the Lamb of God, “the Word made flesh” (John 1:14), then peaceful, gentle, and compliant—easy to be won, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, not double-minded (non duplex), nor hypocritical. Compare with this beautiful description St. Paul’s list of the fruits of the Spirit, “love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance” (Galatians 5:22), and his discourse on Love (1 Corinthians 13). Truly this wisdom “cannot be gotten for gold, neither shall silver be weighed for the price thereof;” “Happy is the man that findeth her.” (Read Job 28:14-19, and Proverbs 3:13-18.)

Adam Clarke's Commentary on James 3:17

Verse 17. The wisdom that is from above] The pure religion of the Lord Jesus, bought by his blood, and infused by his Spirit. See the rabbinical meaning of this phrase at the end of this chapter. Is first pure] αγνη. Chaste, holy, and clean. Peaceable] ειρηνικη. Living in peace with others, and promoting peace among men. Gentle] επιεικης. Meek, modest, of an equal mind, taking every thing in good part, and putting the best construction upon all the actions of others. Easy to be entreated] ευπειθης. Not stubborn nor obstinate; of a yielding disposition in all indifferent things; obsequious, docile. Full of mercy] Ready to pass by a transgression, and to grant forgiveness to those who offend, and performing every possible act of kindness. Good fruits] Each temper and disposition producing fruits suited to and descriptive of its nature. Without partiality] αδιακριτος. Without making a difference-rendering to every man his due; and being never swayed by self-interest, worldly honour, or the fear of man; knowing no man after the flesh. One of the Itala has it irreprehensible. Without hypocrisy.] ανυποκριτος. Without dissimulation; without pretending to be what it is not; acting always in its own character; never working under a mask. Seeking nothing but God's glory, and using no other means to attain it than those of his own prescribing.

Cambridge Bible on James 3:17

17. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable] The sequence is that of thought, not of time. It is not meant, i. e. that purity is an earlier stage of moral growth in wisdom than peace, but that it is its foremost attribute. The “purity” indicated is especially that of chastity of flesh and spirit (comp. 2 Corinthians 7:2; 2 Corinthians 11:2; Titus 2:5), and as such is contrasted with the “sensual” character of the false wisdom. Here again we have the tone of one who has learnt from the Masters of those who know, among the teachers of his own people, that wisdom will not “dwell in the body that is subject unto sin” (Wis 1:4). The sequence which places “peaceful” after “pure” has its counterpart in the beatitudes of the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:8-9).gentle, and easy to be intreated] The word for “gentle” means literally, forbearing. It describes, as in Aristotle (Eth. 10:6), the temper that does not press its rights, that is content to suffer wrong (comp. Philippians 4:5; 1 Timothy 3:3). The second adjective is used by classical writers, both in a passive sense as here, and active, (1) as meaning “persuasive,” “winning its way by gentleness,” or (2) as “obedient.” Our choice between the three meanings must depend on our view of what is most likely to have been the sequence of St James’s thoughts. On the whole, the second seems to me to have the most to commend it. True wisdom shews itself, St James seems to say, in that subtle yet gentle power to persuade and win, which we all feel when we come in contact with one who is clearly not fighting for his own rights, but for the cause of Truth.full of mercy and good fruits] The train of thought is carried on. Wisdom is suasive because she is compassionate. In dealing with the froward she is stirred, not by anger, but by pity, and she overflows, not with “every vile deed,” but with the good fruits of kindly acts.without partiality] Here again we have a Greek word which admits of more than one sense. The English version gives it an active sense, as describing the temper which does not distinguish wrongly, which is no respecter of persons. The sense in which the verb, from which the adjective is formed, is used in ch. James 1:6, James 2:4, is, however, that of “doubting,” or “wavering;” and it seems, therefore, probable that St James means to describe true wisdom as free from the tendency which he thus condemns. That freedom goes naturally with the freedom from unreality which the next word expresses. Without vacillation is the condition of “without hypocrisy.” Where the purpose is single there is no risk of a simulated piety.

Barnes' Notes on James 3:17

But the wisdom that is from above - Compare the notes at 1 Corinthians 2:6-7. The wisdom which has a heavenly origin, or which is from God. The man who is characterised by that wisdom will be pure, peaceable, etc.

Whedon's Commentary on James 3:17

17. Contrasted picture of the wisdom that is from above. First pure— The pure is first as being foremost, and comprehending all the following points, and being inner essence of the whole.

Sermons on James 3:17

	Sermon	Description
	The Tongue by Keith Daniel	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the feeling of being left behind and the horror it brings. He relates this to the concept of failing in the school of God and having to go b
	7) Wisdom for Sisters (Kannada) by Annie Poonen	This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking divine wisdom for our earthly lives, distinguishing between knowledge and wisdom. It highlights the need for obedience to God's wor
	Acquiring a Heart of Wisdom by Zac Poonen	This sermon emphasizes the importance of acquiring wisdom in our lives, drawing insights from Psalms 90 and the life of Jesus. It highlights the need to submit to imperfect authori
	(Luke) 01a - Introduction Cont. by Ed Miller	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the Gospel of Luke and its portrayal of Jesus reaching out to the needy, humble, and broken. The sermon highlights the impact of a movie based
	Tongue Taming by David P. Murray	In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the power and impact of our words. He uses various illustrations to emphasize how something small, like a bit in a horse's mouth or a rudder
	Who Is Wise? by Alistair Begg	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of wisdom and discernment. He urges his listeners to make straight paths for their feet and not to stray from the right path.
	Maintain the Connection - Part 4 by Hans Peter Royer	In this sermon, the speaker discusses how to determine if a message is from God. They emphasize that the content of a word from God will always align with the general revelation fo