James 3:15
This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.
Original Language Analysis
ἔστιν
descendeth
G2076
ἔστιν
descendeth
Strong's:
G2076
Word #:
2 of 11
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
αὕτη
This
G3778
αὕτη
This
Strong's:
G3778
Word #:
3 of 11
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἄνωθεν
from above
G509
ἄνωθεν
from above
Strong's:
G509
Word #:
6 of 11
from above; by analogy, from the first; by implication, anew
κατερχομένη
G2718
ἀλλ'
but
G235
ἀλλ'
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
8 of 11
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
Cross References
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.1 Corinthians 3:19For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.James 1:17Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.1 Corinthians 2:14But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.Philippians 3:19Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)2 Corinthians 1:12For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.1 Timothy 4:1Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;James 1:5If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.Jeremiah 4:22For my people is foolish, they have not known me; they are sottish children, and they have none understanding: they are wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge.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?
Historical Context
Hellenistic cities prized rhetoric and sophistry; James warns believers not to import competitive philosophies. Paul's contrast between earthly wisdom and the cross (1 Corinthians 1) mirrors this teaching.",
Questions for Reflection
- What 'wisdom' have you embraced that may be worldly?
- How can you evaluate counsel based on its fruit and origin?
- Where do you need to renounce demonic patterns of leadership?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. Such wisdom does not descend from above but is earthly (epigeios, ἐπίγειος), unspiritual (psychikē, ψυχική), demonic (daimoniōdēs, δαιμονιώδης). James categorizes pseudo-wisdom's origin: worldly, fleshly, devilish.
Reformed worldview differentiates wisdom from above (rooted in Christ) and worldly wisdom. Envy-driven strategies align with demonic schemes, not gospel humility.