James 3:14-18
Today we are reading James 3.
As we read, these verses stood out to me:
James 3:14-18 - But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not be arrogant and so lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly, natural, demonic. 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder and every evil thing. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. 18 And the seed whose fruit is righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
Please, take some time to Share Your Thoughts With Us as they relate to this passage.
You can share anything that is on your heart but, if you don't know where to start, try reading these verses and answering one or more of the following "Honest Questions"
Honest Questions
1. How does being arrogant cause us to "lie against the truth?"
2. What are some ways that you have learned to examine your heart and deal with issues like "bitter jealousy," "selfish ambition," or arrogance when you find them?
3. Do you find it interesting that James puts "earthly, natural, and demonic" all in the same category? What implications might that have when it comes to some of the things that seem to "just come naturally" to us?
4. Do we think of jealously, selfish ambition, and disorder as minor infractions or demonic and comparable to "every evil thing?"
5. Did you find purity to be one of the first fruits of salvation or discipleship? Is the acquisition of wisdom an instantaneous gift or is it something that has to be desired, sought after, and/or acquired?
6. Of the attributes in this list, which would you like to exhibit more consistently: wisdom, purity, peacefulness, gentleness, reason, mercy, fruitfulness, resilience, or sincerity?
7. Do you think of yourself as a peacemaker? If so, what does that look like on a regular basis for you?
8. Is verse 18 suggesting that we sow righteousness into our own lives, into the lives of others, or both? If it is suggesting that we sow righteousness into the lives of others, how would you suggest that we do that?
9. What is was your favorite verse in James 3 and why?
10. Do you have any specific questions or prayer requests after reading James 3?
We use our Basic Bible Reading plan to guide the discussions in this group.
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