Phrase

editing

NT

James 3:17-18

esv

But

the wisdom from above is

Idea

first

pure,

Explanation

then

peaceable,

gentle,

open to reason,

full of mercy

and

good fruits,

impartial

And

a harvest of righteousness is sown

Result

in peace

manner

by those

Subject

who make peace.

Action

phrasing

Notes

Study Questions 1. Read James 3:17–18 , and try to restate the positive statement in verse 18 in negative terms. That is, write the opposite of James 3:18 in your own words. And the fruit of unrighteousness is sown in contentious chaos, by those who make quarrels, contentious disagreements. (Dr Piper: Sowing in strife will not produce a harvest of righteousness) 2. Now, compare James 3:18 with James 1:20 . What conclusions can you draw by seeing the parallels between the two verses (Pastor John sees at least four)? The anger of a person gets in the way of righteousness and of peace The more familiar I am with all of Scripture, the most I am able to see connections James writes connecting the themes of righeousness, peace, and anger. Dr Piper's There is always more to see. God's Word is unfathomable The righteousness of God is confirmed as human behaviour (James 1:20) Peace-making is justice making (like the slogan: no justice, no peace) The path to peace is not by minimising truth, but by minimising anger 3. What are some specific ways you have meditated on Scripture in the past? What ways does Pastor John model in this lab? Praying for help to understand and obey Reading repeatedly Stopping at key places and re-reading Memorising key sections Dr Piper: Memorise and meditate on key sections of Scripture Turn it inside out, rephrase in the reverse Make connections to other parts of the Word Takeaway There is no end to learning the Word, there is so much to see, and endless amounts to glean. A never ending fountain, mine, harvest field. There is great delight in taking the time to digest a passage

notes