Pastor’s Notes James 1:22

It is thought that the author of the epistle of James was the half-brother of Jesus and later the pastor of the church at Jerusalem. The epistle is addressed to the “twelve tribes which are scattered abroad.” Though its original recipients were Jewish believers it is no less a valuable practical book for every saint today.

Our memory verse this month comes from James 1:22, but first look at the proceeding verses to gain insight as to the context: “For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.” (v20). There is such a thing as righteous indignation. However, we are rarely if ever afflicted by it, most wrath on our part is fleshly. Human anger or wrath is rarely righteous. James moves on to say: “Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness.” (v21a). The word translated as filthiness suggests defilement and likely refers to the wrath of man as in v20. The interesting phrase “superfluity of naughtiness” has the sense of an abundance of malice or ill will. James was touching on what was apparently a problem for his original readers. Interestingly, it would appear that not much has changed in the ensuing years.  Our loss of temper, our anger more often than not includes malice and leads us to sin.

James’ advice: “Receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.” (v21b). In other words, plant God’s Word in your heart it will save you from sin, and so James says: “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” (v22).