THE COURSE OF NATURE _Dean Plumptre’s Note on James 3:6_.—These words have no parallel in any Greek author. Literally, we might render, the “wheel of nature, or, of birth,” as in chap. James 1:23 we have “the face of nature,” for the “natural face,” that with which we are born. The best interpretat... [ Continue Reading ]
OUR SINS OF SPEECH _CRITICAL AND EXEGETICAL NOTES_ James 3:1. MASTERS.—Teachers. In the sixteenth century “master” meant “schoolmaster.” Do not get into the way of being teachers. Do not set yourselves up as teachers (Matthew 23:8). The title of Doctor of the Law was highly coveted among the Jews.... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXEGETICAL NOTES_ James 3:5. A MATTER.—Better, “a forest.” The picture presented is of the wrapping of some vast forest in a flame by the falling of a single spark. _Philo_ uses the same figure: “As the smallest spark will, if duly fanned, kindle a vast pyre, so is the least element o... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXEGETICAL NOTES_ James 3:13. GOOD CONVERSATION.—Or, his “good life”; “good conduct.” The usual New Testament idea of “conversation.” James 3:14. STRIFE.—Prefer “rivalry.” James 3:15. SENSUAL.—Or, “animal.” James 3:17. GENTLE.—Lit. “forbearing.” INTREATED.—Persuaded. PARTIALITY.—Ch... [ Continue Reading ]