Preached by Pastor Mike Hess Sunday morning 02/21/2010.
Godly Wisdom
James 3:13-18
Cessationist
This is someone who believes that certain apostolic gifts ceased at the close of the apostolic age and that God now speaks exclusively through His sufficient and complete Word – the Bible
I. Wisdom Displayed (James 3:13)
Two characteristics of those who apply wisdom to their lives:
1. Good Conduct
2. Humility
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge” Proverbs 1:7
“Thus says the LORD; “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the LORD.” Jeremiah 9:23-24
“For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself. But let each one test his own work, and then his reason to boast will be in himself alone and not in his neighbor.” Galatians 6:3-4
“So that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the LORD”.”
1 Corinthians 1:31
“in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:3
“And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption.” 1 Corinthians 1:30
II. Counterfeit Wisdom (James 3:14-16)
“Where is the one who is wise? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since, in the wisdom of God, the world did not know God through wisdom, it pleased God through the folly of what we preach to save those who believe.” 1 Corinthians 1:20-21
Contradictions to godly wisdom (vs. 14):
1. Bitter Jealousy
“Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” Romans 12:15
2. Selfish Ambition
“Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Philippians 2:3-4
3 Characteristics of “earthly wisdom” (vs.15)
1. Earthly
2. Unspiritual
3. Demonic
The results of “earthly wisdom” (vs.16)
1. Disorder
2. Every vile practice
III. Peaceable Wisdom is Godly Wisdom (James 3:17-18)
8 Characteristics of Heavenly Wisdom (vs. 17):
1. Pure
2. Peaceable
3. Gentle
4. Open to reason
5. Full of mercy
6. Good Fruits
7. Impartial
8. Sincere
“Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly. Never be wise in your own sight. Repay no evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” Romans 12:16-18
Application:
1.) The implication is clear in this passage – there is NO place in the church for pride, selfish ambition, envy or jealousy
2.) Earthly wisdom always brings trouble and problems. Godly wisdom always brings blessing in the end (Prov. 14:12)
