What is the meaning of James 3:15? Such wisdom does not come from above James opens the window on two very different kinds of wisdom. The first, “from above,” is God-given; the second, described in this verse, is its counterfeit. By saying this wisdom “does not come from above,” he literally excludes it from the heavenly source identified earlier: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights” (James 1:17). Later he will contrast it with the true: “The wisdom from above is first of all pure…” (James 3:17). • Above = God’s realm—pure, generous, peace-loving (James 3:17). • Below = Man’s realm—selfish ambition, bitter jealousy (James 3:14). 1 Corinthians 2:6-16 shows the same divide: the Spirit reveals God’s wisdom; the “natural man” cannot grasp it. Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us God’s ways are higher than ours. The takeaway: if counsel or ideas clash with the clear teaching of Scripture, they did not originate with the Father of lights. but is earthly Earthly wisdom is tied to the fallen world system. Philippians 3:19 describes those “whose minds are set on earthly things.” Colossians 3:2 urges believers, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things”. Signs of earthly wisdom: • It prizes visible success over eternal truth (Luke 12:16-21). • It measures right and wrong by culture’s standards, not God’s commands (1 John 2:15-17). • It focuses on temporary gain rather than eternal reward (Matthew 16:26). Practical checkpoint: Does the counsel I’m hearing (or giving) make sense only if this life is all there is? If so, it’s earthly, not heavenly. unspiritual The term pictures life driven by the “natural” appetites rather than the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 2:14 says, “The natural man does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God.” Jude 19 warns of those who “cause divisions, who are worldly and devoid of the Spirit.” Evidence of unspiritual wisdom: • Relies on human charisma or intellect instead of prayer and Scripture (Proverbs 3:5-7). • Produces fleshly works like envy, strife, and pride (Galatians 5:19-21). • Ignores the transforming power of the Spirit (Romans 8:5-8). The Spirit and the flesh pull in opposite directions; advice that sidelines the Spirit’s role shows its true origin. demonic James pulls back the curtain completely: at its root, this wisdom is “demonic.” 1 Timothy 4:1 speaks of “deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons.” Jesus exposed Satan as “a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44). How demonic influence manifests in “wisdom”: • Twists Scripture to justify sin (Genesis 3:1-5; Matthew 4:6). • Elevates self-exaltation and rebellion—hallmarks of Satan’s fall (Isaiah 14:12-15). • Produces disorder and every evil practice (James 3:16). 2 Corinthians 11:14 cautions that “Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.” Advice may sound brilliant, even spiritual, yet its fruit exposes a darker source. summary James 3:15 draws a sharp line: any counsel flowing out of jealousy, selfish ambition, or pride is not from God. Instead, it is earthly—rooted in a fallen world; unspiritual—devoid of the Holy Spirit; and demonic—ultimately aligned with the enemy of souls. True wisdom comes down from the Father, aligns with clear biblical truth, and produces purity, peace, and righteousness (James 3:17-18). The call is simple: reject the counterfeit and seek the genuine wisdom that only God can give. |
    |