James 3:17

Verse 17. But the wisdom that is from above.

A different view of things is here now presented. The beauty and grandeur of another vision is spread before us. The wisdom which is from above exhibits no anger nor envy nor strife, consequently no confusion nor evil work, but contrariwise the persons under its benign control exhibit as its happy effects first a pure, then a peaceable, then a gentle spirit and disposition, easy to be persuaded, full of mercy and compassion. The kind and charitable actions of those possessed of such graces of spirit are legion. Their deeds of love are bounded only by the territories of suffering and distress. Their munificence is never marred by the presence of partiality and favoritism. The charge of hypocrisy is forever excluded, for no profession of goodness is ever uttered. Deeds only are performed in quiet promptness, and no word is spoken but those of comfort and sympathy for the suffering and distressed. What a grand photograph of nobility is here held up to the gaze of men.

On this verse the language of Dr. Macknight is so expressive, I give it entire: "In this beautiful passage James describes the excellent nature of that temper which is recommended by the Christian religion, and the happy effects which it produces. It is the highest wisdom; it cometh from God, and makes those who receive it first pure, then peaceable, etc. All the apostles except Paul were illiterate men; but, according to their Master's promise, they had, by inspiration of the Spirit, a wisdom and eloquence given them far exceeding what they could have acquired by the deepest erudition. Of the fulfillment of Christ's promise the Epistle of James is a striking proof. Search all heathen antiquity and see whether it can produce any sentiments more noble or more simply or beautifully expressed than those contained in this chapter, and, indeed, throughout the whole of this Epistle."