Series Title: Faith That Works
Week 6: Living with Wisdom from Above
Text: James 3:13–18 Big Idea:Wise faith is humble, pure, and peace-loving—it reveals itself in how we live, not just what we say.
I. Wisdom Shows in Good Conduct
James 3:13 (NIV)
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.
Cross References:
- Proverbs 4:7 – “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.”
- Matthew 7:16 – “By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?”
Why We Struggle: We often confuse knowledge with wisdom. Knowledge can be paraded; wisdom must be proven in action and attitude.
Theological Summary: Biblical wisdom isn’t just intellectual—it’s moral and relational. It is always rooted in humility because it flows from God, not self.
Know This: The proof of wisdom is not in what you know, but in how you live.
II. The Marks of Earthly Wisdom
James 3:14–16 (NIV)
But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
Cross References:
- 1 Corinthians 3:3 – “You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?”
- Galatians 5:19–21 – “The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; and the like…”
Why We Struggle: We tend to justify self-promotion as leadership or ambition. Envy can hide under the mask of competitiveness.
Theological Summary: Earthly wisdom is man-centered and self-serving. It is ultimately destructive because it elevates personal agenda above God’s purposes.
Know This: Any wisdom that puts self first will eventually put others last.
III. The Marks of Heavenly Wisdom
James 3:17–18 (NIV)
But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
Cross References:
- Proverbs 3:17 – “Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace.”
- Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Why We Struggle: Heavenly wisdom often feels counterintuitive in a culture that prizes winning over peace, dominance over humility.
Theological Summary: God’s wisdom transforms relationships, not just thoughts. It cultivates peace and produces righteousness in those who live by it.
Know This: Heavenly wisdom doesn’t just change how you think—it changes how you treat people.
APPLICATION
HEAD (What to Believe):
True wisdom is revealed in humble, righteous living, not just clever words or impressive knowledge.
HEART (What to Feel):
A longing for God’s kind of wisdom, which produces peace, purity, and mercy.
HAND (What to Do):
- Ask God for wisdom daily (James 1:5).
- Replace selfish ambition with service.
- Intentionally be a peacemaker in one strained relationship this week.
Key Takeaways:
- Wisdom is proven by conduct, not credentials.
- Earthly wisdom produces disorder; heavenly wisdom produces righteousness.
- The fruit of wisdom is peace—both in your heart and in your relationships.