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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comRobertson Word Pictures - James 3:17 - 3:17
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This Chapter Verse Commentaries:
First pure (prōton men hagnē). First in rank and time. Hagnos is from the same root as hagios (holy), old adjective, pure from fault, not half-good and half-bad, like that above.
Then peaceable (epeita eirēnikē). Old adjective from eirēnē (peace), loving peace here, bringing peace in Heb 12:11 (only N.T. examples). But clearly great as peace is, purity (righteousness) comes before peace and peace at any price is not worth the having. Hence Jesus spurned the devil’s peace of surrender.
Gentle (epieikēs). Old adjective (from eikos, reasonable, fair), equitable (Phi 4:5; 1Pe 2:18). No English word renders it clearly.
Easy to be entreated (eupeithēs). Old adjective (eu, peithomai), compliant, approachable. Only here in N.T.
Mercy (eleous). Practical help (Jam 2:13, Jam 2:16).
Good fruits (karpōn agathōn). Kaloi karpoi in Mat 7:17. Good deeds the fruit of righteousness (Phi 1:11).
Without variance (adiakritos). Late verbal adjective (from alpha privative and diakrinō, to distinguish). “Unhesitating,” not doubting (diakrinomenos) like the man in Jam 1:6. Here only in N.T. This wisdom does not put a premium on doubt.
Without hypocrisy (anupokritos). Late and rare verbal adjective (alpha privative and hupokrinō). Not hypocritical, sincere, unfeigned (Rom 12:9).