James 3:13-16

A Wisdom From the Devil

Some of those rushing to be teachers may have claimed great book knowledge. They may also have claimed to have wisdom, or the ability to apply knowledge. The test of that comes in how one lives. Some may have said, "Your actions are so loud I can't hear what you are saying." Real wisdom is found in one who knows how much he does not know. So, a good teacher will not be proud or haughty in his knowledge, but will teach in meekness (James 3:13).

Some people get a sour disposition when someone else does well. They tend to rally people to their side to win arguments whether they are right or wrong. Such actions make one lie against what is right. Those who do that have no reason to be proud of their so-called wisdom. Christians need to put aside bitter envy and personal pride (James 3:14; Hebrews 12:15; Ephesians 4:31; 3 John 1:9-11).

The so-called wisdom of verse 14 is not from God, but from the devil, or demons under his control (1 Timothy 4:1). It originates on earth instead of in heaven (see John 8:23; 1 Peter 3:18-19; Colossians 3:1-10; 1 John 2:15-17). It comes from an attempt to fulfill physical desires without retaining control over one's body (Judges 1:17-19). Obviously, a wisdom which causes envy and strife would not be from God since it produces disorder and worthless works (James 3:15-16; 1 Corinthians 14:33).