The second in a short series of sermons during August dealing with some of the things that the Bible designates as “PURE”
Two Kinds of Wisdom
13 Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. 14 But if you harbour bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. 15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.
17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
This book is commonly believed to have been written by James, the brother of Jesus, perhaps as early as 48AD.
What is wisdom?
James makes a distinction between Godly Wisdom and earthly wisdom. He explains that Godly wisdom will portray a humble attitude and a willingness to serve others and a good life. Worldly wisdom, on the other had will display selfish ambition and envy of others. He uses the harshest language to describe such even calling it demonic!
Obviously we need to seek after the one and avoid the other! If we seek after Godly Wisdom we will find it is referenced many times within the book of proverbs.
How can we gain wisdom?
The Bible tells us to first have a right attitude towards God and to trust Him.
Proverbs 1:7 (NIV)
7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,
but fools despise wisdom and instruction.
Godly Wisdom is therefore the ability to apply Biblical truth to everyday life. It is not common sense, which the Bible seems to assume we will have anyway.
How do we apply wisdom in our daily lives?
The Holy Spirit will teach us how to do this
John 14:26 (NIV-WS)
26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.
Our Challenge
The clue is in the word ‘remind’. He can only remind us of what we have already heard Him say. Therefore we are to immerse ourselves in God’s Word. Our challenge today is to commit to reading our Bibles every day if we don’t already, and if we already do that, then spending more time doing so.
This will have a positive effect on our minds. Reading scripture like this will have the effect of renewing our minds and giving us the wisdom we seek.
Romans 12:2 (NIV-WS)
2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Service Details
Theme:
Reading: James 3 v 13 – 18
Preacher: Robin Brenchley
Led by: Robin Brenchley
