James 3 13

James 3:13 kjv

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.

James 3:13 nkjv

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom.

James 3:13 niv

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.

James 3:13 esv

Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom.

James 3:13 nlt

If you are wise and understand God's ways, prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom.

James 3 verses

James 3 13 Meaning

True wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge or verbal assertion but is tangibly demonstrated through a life characterized by honorable conduct and actions performed with humble gentleness. It signifies that genuine understanding of God's ways transforms one's character, leading to practical righteousness and a quiet spirit rather than self-assertive or boastful displays.

James 3 13 Context

James Chapter 3 is primarily focused on the power and proper use of the tongue, framing it as an instrument capable of great destruction or great good. After asserting that true faith must be evidenced by deeds (Ch. 2), James pivots to discuss how a truly transformed person demonstrates wisdom in their communication and conduct. Verse 13 serves as a bridge, linking the concept of controlling one's tongue with the broader implications of genuine wisdom. It implicitly addresses those who might consider themselves knowledgeable or spiritual teachers within the community but fail to live out their purported wisdom in humble and righteous ways, leading to discord. This verse sets the stage for the stark contrast in verses 14-18 between "earthly, unspiritual, demonic" wisdom and the "wisdom from above." Historically, within both Jewish and Hellenistic thought, wisdom was highly esteemed, but James emphasizes a wisdom that is rooted in God, leading to specific ethical behavior, differing from philosophical speculation or mere intellectual prowess.

James 3 13 Word analysis

• Who: (τίς - tis) A rhetorical question designed to prompt self-reflection and a direct challenge to anyone claiming wisdom or understanding. It implies that true wisdom is rare and demonstrable, not just declared.
• is wise: (σοφός - sophos) In biblical context, wisdom is not merely intellectual acumen or theoretical knowledge, but primarily practical skill, insight into righteous living, and alignment with God's will. It's understanding life from God's perspective.
• and understanding: (ἐπιστήμων - epistēmōn) Implies someone knowledgeable, discerning, skilled. It refers to a cognitive grasp or expertise, often professional or academic. Here, it relates to possessing deep insight into spiritual truths, beyond mere facts.
• among you: (ἐν ὑμῖν - en hymin) Highlights the communal aspect, addressing individuals within the Christian fellowship. This makes the question relevant to their interpersonal dynamics and leadership.
• Let him show: (δειξάτω - deixatō) A strong imperative. Wisdom is not passive or internal only; it must be exhibited, made evident, proven. This counters any notion of a private or unobservable wisdom.
• it by his good: (ἐκ τῆς καλῆς - ek tēs kalēs) "Good" (καλῆς - kalēs) signifies beautiful, noble, morally excellent, or inherently righteous. Wisdom produces behavior that is ethically sound and commendable.
• life: (ἀναστροφῆς - anastrophēs) Denotes one's general conduct, manner of living, behavior, or lifestyle. This term emphasizes that true wisdom permeates one's entire existence, not just specific acts or words.
• by deeds: (τὰ ἔργα - ta erga) Concrete actions, works, or accomplishments. This directly links back to James's emphasis in chapter 2 on faith demonstrated through visible works, applying the same principle to wisdom.
• with meekness: (ἐν πραΰτητι - en prautēti) "Meekness" or "gentleness." This is a crucial virtue, not implying weakness but rather strength under control, humility, willingness to yield to God's will and be considerate of others. It’s a cultivated disposition, reflecting submission to God rather than assertion of self.
• of wisdom: (σοφίας - sophias) The source and characteristic quality. This meekness is not natural weakness but springs from true wisdom. It indicates that genuine wisdom eliminates pride and cultivates a humble spirit.

• "Who is wise and understanding among you?": This interrogative sentence challenges the listeners to examine themselves and others. It implies that true wisdom is observable and that not everyone claiming it genuinely possesses it.
• "Let him show it by his good life": This phrase establishes that wisdom is primarily a matter of conduct and lifestyle, not just intellectual capacity or eloquent speech. It mandates a practical demonstration.
• "by deeds done": Emphasizes the tangible manifestation of one's inner character. Wisdom is proved not just by intention but by the actions that follow.
• "in the humility that comes from wisdom" / "with meekness of wisdom": This pivotal phrase highlights the unique quality of divine wisdom. It directly counters arrogant, self-serving, or contentious displays. True wisdom intrinsically produces humility and gentleness, providing a contrast to the "earthly, unspiritual, demonic" wisdom described later. It is a humble, teachable spirit born out of knowing God truly.

James 3 13 Bonus section

• Theology of Wisdom: In the Old Testament, wisdom often personified as an attribute of God (Prov 8) and is seen as dwelling with God. For James, seeking wisdom from God (James 1:5) implies receiving not just intellectual insight but a transforming divine quality that results in changed behavior.
• Contrasting Wisdoms: James provides a sharp contrast (3:14-17) between the true wisdom described in verse 13 and an "earthly, unspiritual, demonic" wisdom that leads to jealousy, selfish ambition, and disorder. This serves as a litmus test for the reader: if their life displays pride, contention, or division, they lack true wisdom.
• Meekness as Strength: The Greek term prautēs (meekness/gentleness) doesn't denote timidity but strength brought under submission, like a well-trained powerful horse. It implies patience, submission to God's will, and a lack of self-importance or quick temper, which are crucial for maintaining peace and righteousness.
• Integrity of Life: The verse underscores James's overarching theme: the integrity between profession and practice. A person claiming wisdom must demonstrate it consistently in all areas of their "life" or "conduct" (anastrophēs), not just in moments of outward piety.

James 3 13 Commentary

James 3:13 distills a fundamental truth of biblical wisdom: it is not a theoretical concept or a mere accumulation of knowledge, but a transformative quality expressed in one's conduct and character. By asking "Who is wise and understanding among you?", James issues a direct challenge, implying that such a person's life will speak louder than any words. True wisdom, unlike intellectual arrogance or worldly shrewdness, inherently cultivates a "meekness" or "gentleness." This humility is not weakness, but a controlled strength, born from a profound understanding of one's place before God and in relation to others. It rejects pride, boasting, and selfish ambition, leading instead to good deeds done without self-promotion. In essence, the wise individual's conduct will be marked by humility, peace, and service, aligning with God's divine character.