James 3:17

Wisdom. That is, true wisdom, which God promises to all who sincerely ask for it (see on James 1:5).

Pure. Gr. hagnos, “free from defilement.” This quality is first because the following qualities grow out of an undefiled, God-given philosophy of life. This wisdom is free from “earthly” principles, pursuits, and goals.

Peaceable. See on Matt. 5:9. He who is truly wise seeks to avoid quarrels and strife, but his desire for peace will not keep him from presenting the truth, even though trouble may result. Jesus predicted that the proclamation of truth would bring contention into the world (see on Matt. 10:34), but the resulting strife is the fault of those who oppose the truth, not of those who wisely present it. Purity of life and doctrine must never be sacrificed in an effort to secure peace.

Gentle. Gr. epieikes, “reasonable,” “mild” (see 1 Tim. 3:3; Titus 3:2). True wisdom is mild, forbearing under provocation, and makes allowances for the mistakes of others. It constitutes a man a Christian gentleman.

Easy to be intreated. Gr. eupeithes, “easily compliant,” that is, not obstinate and difficult to work with.

Mercy. See on James 2:13.

Good fruits. See on Matt. 7:17; 21:34; Gal. 5:22, 23.

Without partiality. Or, “unwavering,” “without uncertainty,” that is, not uncertain as to what course of action to take. The Christian must not vacillate between contending positions simply to gain an advantage. A wise man is not ashamed of his position, however many oppose him.

Without hypocrisy. Gr. anupokritos, “unfeigned,” “undisguised.”