1James 3:13-4:10—Opposition has its source in worldly wisdom. James says the wars, quarrels, dissension, and strife have their source in earthly wisdom. It is a bad spirit that causes opposition. James will contrast earthly and heavenly wisdom. In this lesson James distinguishes between the types of wisdom. Earthly wisdom is characterized by ambition, rivalry, and selfishness. This kind of wisdom provides disorder and confusion. Heavenly wisdom comes from God. This wisdom is “pure, peaceable, gentle,” etc. The heavenly side; do not boast of themselves, but promote peace and reap a harvest of righteousness. The source of fighting and killing each other is the heart which is full of selfish desire.
Why is there fighting among people? Why are there hatred and murders? What is the source of sin? James here traces sin to “desire,” “passion,” “covetousness.” When there is evil desire, it is only a matter of time until the desire is put into action. We go after what we want, and some will pay any price or commit any crime to get it. Desire in itself is not bad, but evil desire, caused by an evil spirit, results in sin.
Peace on the other hand sows righteousness and out of righteousness comes peace. As long as people do not treat each other justly, there will never be peace. If there is economic injustice, there will never be peace between the “haves” and the “haves not.” Goodwill, honesty, and fairness are preconditions of peace. As long as people and nations are un-Christian in their human relations and interactions there can be no peace. 2
For those in distress - Almighty and everlasting God, the consolation of the sorrowful and the strength of the weak, may the prayers of those who in any tribulation or distress cry to You graciously come before You, so that in all their necessities they may mark and receive Your manifold help and comfort; through Jesus Christ, our Lord. 3
Sources:
1. The Crucifixion, Schnorr Von Carolsfeld woodcuts © WELS permission granted for personal and congregational use
2. Lectionary Preaching Workbook Series B, John Brokhoff ©1981 CSS Publishing, Lima, OH
3. A prayer for those in distress, Lutheran Service Book © 2006 Concordia Publishing House, St, Louis
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