Introduction:
1. Knowledge vs. wisdom
2. Technology is moving at such a fast rate that it is said our information doubles every 4 years.
3. How do you live your life-that is the wisdom of which James is speaking.
4. James 3:13-17
I. The origin of the two.
A. Wisdom of the world (verse 15). It is… 1. Earthly-of the earth-flawed reasoning (1 Cor. 1:18). 2. Sensual-natural (1 Cor. 2:14; 1 Jn. 2:16). 3. Devilish-from Satan (Jn. 8:44).
B. From above. It is….1. From God. 2. His revealed will (Dt. 4:5-6; 2 Tim. 3:15).
II. The operation of the two.
A. Worldly wisdom: 1. Envy-self centered (Mt. 6:1-18). 2. Strife-self centered, trouble maker, gets what he wants disrupts others (Phil. 2:3). 3. Glory not-boastful, pride going to seed (2 Cor. 10:12). 4. Lying deceitful/exaggerated truths for ones own gain.
B. Wisdom from above: 1. Pure-not contaminated. Single in purpose (Mt. 6:33; 5:8). 2. Peaceable-peace among men (Phil. 2:1-4; 1 Cor. 14:33; Prov. 6:16-19; Rom. 12:18). 3. Gentleness-courteous/considerate (2 Tim. 2:24, 25). 4. Easy to be entreated-teachable (Prov. 9:8). 5. Mercy-moved by the needs of others (Lk. 6:36; Lk. 10:30-37). 6. Good fruits-life lived produces fruit. 7. Without partiality-unwavering, decisive (Eph. 4:14; Gal. 3:26-28). 8. Without hypocrisy-sincere, openness.
III. The outcome or results of wisdom.
A. Worldly. It produces, trouble, confusion, disorder (2 Cor. 12:20). It is also seen as an evil work that is worthless.
B. Godly. A seed sown will reap benefits. Such is true of godly wisdom there is the fruit of righteousness (Ga. 6:8; Hosea 8:7, 10-12). Compare and contrast Lot and Abraham.
Conclusion:
1. The right source will develop the right qualities and will ultimately aim for the right results. This is the wisdom that matters and is of God.
Entered on 11/1/2009
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