James 3:13
Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.
Original Language Analysis
Τίς
Who
G5101
Τίς
Who
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
1 of 17
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 17
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἐκ
out of
G1537
ἐκ
out of
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
8 of 17
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καλῆς
a good
G2570
καλῆς
a good
Strong's:
G2570
Word #:
10 of 17
properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished
τὰ
G3588
τὰ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 17
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἔργα
works
G2041
ἔργα
works
Strong's:
G2041
Word #:
13 of 17
toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act
αὐτοῦ
G846
αὐτοῦ
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
14 of 17
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
Cross References
Galatians 5:23Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.James 3:17But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.Matthew 5:5Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.Colossians 3:12Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;1 Peter 2:12Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.Titus 3:2To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men.2 Timothy 2:25In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;Philippians 1:27Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;1 Timothy 6:11But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.James 2:18Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.
Historical Context
Jewish teachers prized wisdom status; some boasted of insight while sowing division. James appeals to Old Testament wisdom tradition where character validates claims. Paul's emphasis on meekness (2 Corinthians 10:1) aligns with this ethic.",
Questions for Reflection
- How do you typically display or boast of wisdom?
- What meek actions could manifest true wisdom this week?
- Who models meek wisdom for you to imitate?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. Who is wise (sophos, σοφός) and understanding? Let him show (deixatō, δειξάτω) his works in meekness (prautēti, πραΰτητι) of wisdom. True wisdom is demonstrated through humble conduct, not mere rhetoric.
Reformed spirituality values wisdom displayed in sanctified living. Meekness, a Spirit fruit, proves authenticity. James transitions from tongue to wisdom, linking speech to lifestyle.