James 1:21

Wherefore. James now turns to a practical application of the general principle set forth in v. 20.

Lay apart. Or, “strip off,” as clothing. (See Eph. 4:25; Col. 3:9; 1 Peter 2:1.)

All filthiness. As one strips off soiled clothing, so church members are to remove all “filthiness” of mind and soul.

Superfluity. Gr. perisseia, “abundance,” “residue.” Any evil is superfluous in the Christian life. With all diligence the Christian is to address himself to the task of eliminating whatever imperfections of character may still persist.

Naughtiness. Gr. kakia, “ill will,” “malice,” “wickedness” (see Eph. 4:31; Col. 3:8; Titus 3:3). The spirit of kindness and humility, both in receiving Christian instruction and in giving it to others, is stressed as the practical goal for each church member. The problem of unbridled tongues could be eliminated if church members would lay aside all “ill will” and suspicion.

Meekness. Gr. praiotes, “gentleness.” For the adjective praiis see on Matt. 5:5. “Meekness” is the opposite of the “wrath” of v. 20, which makes men unteachable. Meekness is not a low estimate of oneself, but a modest, gentle, forbearing spirit, and a calm, forgiving disposition.

The engrafted word. Rather, “the implanted word.” The gospel is a gift of God and is likened elsewhere to the “seed” that is planted in the soil of the heart (see on Matt. 13:3—8). Salvation is not the result of personal study or of any other achievement of man. The “word” is “engrafted” within a man when he chooses to make the principles of Scripture the pattern for his life.

Able to save. The “word” may be compared with the “gospel,” which Paul declares is the “power of God” (see on Rom. 1:16). The Scriptures reveal this gospel of the power of God, which is available to all. When, by the power of God, a man lives according to the principles of the “word” he is inwardly guided by the “implanted word” (see on Rom. 10:17).