James 1:20
For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.
Original Language Analysis
ὀργὴ
the wrath
G3709
ὀργὴ
the wrath
Strong's:
G3709
Word #:
1 of 7
properly, desire (as a reaching forth or excitement of the mind), i.e., (by analogy), violent passion (ire, or (justifiable) abhorrence); by implicati
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 7
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
δικαιοσύνην
the righteousness
G1343
δικαιοσύνην
the righteousness
Strong's:
G1343
Word #:
4 of 7
equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification
θεοῦ
of God
G2316
θεοῦ
of God
Strong's:
G2316
Word #:
5 of 7
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
Historical Context
Persecuted believers could easily rationalize retaliatory anger toward oppressors or toward fellow saints who disagreed. James knew zealots in Judea were stirring rebellion; he warns diaspora Christians not to adopt fleshly anger under guise of righteousness. Paul's exhortation in Romans 12:19 parallels this: leave vengeance to God.
Positioned as Jerusalem's leader, James sought to keep churches from splitting over harsh words or angry activism divorced from gospel mercy.
Questions for Reflection
- Where have you justified anger that actually hindered God's righteousness?
- How can you channel zeal into prayerful, patient obedience?
- Who can help you discern when righteous concern slips into sinful wrath?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. Human wrath (orgē anthrōpou, ὀργὴ ἀνθρώπου) does not produce God's righteousness (dikaiosynēn, δικαιοσύνην). Anger might feel righteous, but James states bluntly that it fails to accomplish covenant justice. Only Spirit-produced righteousness—fruit of peace, mercy, and impartiality—expresses God's character.
Reformed theology distinguishes God's righteous wrath from ours; we are not reliable instruments of judgment. When believers justify anger as zeal, James reminds them that holiness is advanced by meekness, not human fury. This prepares for warnings about the tongue and strife later in the letter.