James 3:17-18 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits… I. THE ESSENTIAL CHARACTERISTIC OF GENUINE RELIGION. NOW true religion may be denominated wisdom — 1. As it directs the mind to the most glorious pursuits. 2. As it employs the most efficient means for the attainment of these objects. II. ITS HEAVENLY ORIGIN. 1. The contrivance of salvation was from above. 2. The Author of our salvation came from above. 3. The revelation of true religion is from above. 4. All the blessings of our religion are from above. III. ITS DISTINGUISHED ATTRIBUTES. 1. It is pure. Not absolute or angelic purity, but spiritual purity. The opposite of depravity and corruption. This purity is supernatural, real, and progressive. 2. It is peaceable. Not contentious. Not boisterous. It commences with the pacification of the conscience towards God. It produces a peaceful state of mind. 3. It is gentle. Hence the Christian resembles the dove, and not the vulture; the lamb, and not the lion. 4. Is easy to be entreated. Not stubborn or self-willed. 5. It is full of mercy. 6. Full of good fruits. 7. Without partiality. 8. Without hypocrisy. Application: 1. How important that we ascertain if our religion possess these essential attributes! 2. How happy those who experience in their hearts these heavenly fruits! 3. What a blessing is genuine religion to the world at large! (J. Burns, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. |
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