James 3:14
But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.
Original Language Analysis
ζῆλον
envying
G2205
ζῆλον
envying
Strong's:
G2205
Word #:
3 of 18
properly, heat, i.e., (figuratively) "zeal" (in a favorable sense, ardor; in an unfavorable one, jealousy, as of a husband (figuratively, of god), or
πικρὸν
bitter
G4089
πικρὸν
bitter
Strong's:
G4089
Word #:
4 of 18
sharp (pungent), i.e., acrid (literally or figuratively)
ἔχετε
ye have
G2192
ἔχετε
ye have
Strong's:
G2192
Word #:
5 of 18
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
6 of 18
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 18
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καρδίᾳ
hearts
G2588
καρδίᾳ
hearts
Strong's:
G2588
Word #:
10 of 18
the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle
μὴ
not
G3361
μὴ
not
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
12 of 18
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
14 of 18
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ψεύδεσθε
lie not
G5574
ψεύδεσθε
lie not
Strong's:
G5574
Word #:
15 of 18
to utter an untruth or attempt to deceive by falsehood
κατὰ
against
G2596
κατὰ
against
Strong's:
G2596
Word #:
16 of 18
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
Cross References
James 3:16For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.1 Corinthians 13:4Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,Philippians 2:3Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.1 Corinthians 3:3For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?Romans 13:13Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.2 Corinthians 12:20For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults:Philippians 1:15Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will:Acts 5:17Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation,James 5:19Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him;Proverbs 14:30A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.
Historical Context
Diaspora congregations wrestled with rivalry among teachers and patrons. James addresses schisms similar to those Paul confronts in 1 Corinthians 3. Boasting while harboring envy undermines gospel witness.",
Questions for Reflection
- Where does jealousy or ambition hide in your ministry?
- How can you rejoice in others' successes?
- What practices expose and uproot selfish ambition?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. If you harbor bitter jealousy (zēlon pikron, ζῆλον πικρόν) and selfish ambition (eritheian, ἐριθείαν), do not boast or lie against the truth. Such inner attitudes contradict claims to wisdom.
Reformed examination calls believers to assess motives. James exposes ministry jealousy and factionalism masquerading as zeal.