James 3:13

Verse 13. Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge?

The thought the apostle would here inculcate is this: While we may not successfully contend with and subdue the tongues of others, the wise man among the brethren may bridle his own tongue, and to accomplish this his conversation must be good, followed by corresponding works and actions, and in all this exhibit therein the meekness of wisdom. Macknight, concerning the expression, "meekness of wisdom," says: "This beautiful expression insinuates that true wisdom is always accompanied with meekness or the government of the passions. The meekness of wisdom and the beauty of holiness are expressions of the same kind, formed to represent the excellency of these qualities." Before dismissing this verse I desire to say that in my judgment the Syriac expresses with more clearness the true meaning of the text. It is as follows: "Who is wise and instructed among you, let him show his works in praise- worthy actions with modest wisdom." The thought the Spirit designed to communicate through the inspired penman appears with more clearness and certainty in this Syriac version. At least so it appears to me, for thereby I was enabled to grasp the thought to my entire satisfaction, and without a lingering doubt.