Ministry of Grace Church

Who is wise and knowledgeable among you? Let him show his works by his good behavior, in meekness of wisdom.

Truth to Learn

Many who desire to be teachers don’t qualify. But it’s not due to lack of knowledge or understanding.

Behind the Words

“Wise” is translated from the Greek word sophos. In classical Greek, this word described respected philosophers and other truly learned men. However, in the New Testament it implies much more than just intellectual brilliance and education. Specifically, it refers to “the ability to apply with skill what one knows (especially religious truth).”

The word “knowledgeable” is translated from epistēmōn. This is made up of epi, meaning “upon” or “over” and a form of histēmi, meaning “to stand.” In the Greek vernacular, one would say that it refers to “someone who overstands.” Today we would say, “one who understands.” This word refers to intelligence and the knowledge of an expert.

The word translated “behavior” is anastrophē, made up of ana, meaning “up” or “again” and a form of strephō, meaning “to turn.” Hence, it literally refers to turning again. Metaphorically, it refers to the way a person lives his or her life.

Meaning Explained

After a lengthy monologue about the tongue, James finally moves on to a new subject. His discourse, however, is still in reference to teaching in the church. Just because someone knows a lot doesn’t mean they should be a teacher. We all have been gifted by the Holy Spirit with special abilities to be used in the church. Not all are gifted as teachers, though. If you have the ability to speak and teach and you think you know a lot about God and what is taught in the Bible, James says there are still more things that are necessary before you will be considered a good teacher. Not only do you need to have mastery over your tongue, you need to have mastery over what you know, and that mastery must be demonstrated, not just proclaimed.

He says if you have a lot of knowledge (understanding of facts) and wisdom (proper skillful application of those facts), then let your humble actions prove it. Although James has a clear, “politely in-your-face” style in most of his writing, here he is making a very subtle statement to people who want the prominence and power of the position of teacher in a church. It is this: “Don’t put yourself forward as a great teacher; let others recognize it in you from your humbly demonstrated wisdom, righteous living, and ability to teach.” If this is clearly demonstrated, you will be asked to be a teacher.

James tells us that wisdom needs to be possessed in meekness. Some of the most intelligent and educated people are very proud of their position or the letters that appear at the end of their names. That is a problem according to James.

Application

Do you seek the position and prominence of a teacher within the church? James might tell you that you don’t qualify. Those who are truly called by God to teach in the church are constantly humbled before God because of the awesome responsibility that has been placed on them to rightly instruct the truth of God’s Holy Word.