Notes on James 1:19-2:26

Wise practices - James 1:19-2:26

In this section of the letter, James introduces the importance of listening and taking action rather than mere profession. The people of God must be known by wise practices that display God’s righteous and impartial character. While James takes up the image of a man looking into a mirror in order to clean up his act, Jesus used the image of a man building his house on a rock to remain stable in life’s storms. Both images are about how wisdom demonstrates the integrity of our words and deeds.

Hearing and doing - James 1:19-27

Take Action. While the Lord is concerned that his people know and believe the truth, he is just as concerned that their actions match their beliefs. Their faithfulness is demonstrated by their practice, righteousness, and expressions of loyal love in their relationships with Him, each other, and their neighbors.

Quick to hear, slow to speak - James 1:19

The wise Christian is quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger. These character traits are hallmarks of disciples or learners. Such qualities are well attested in the proverbs of Solomon (Prov. 1:19; 14:39; 17:27). Patient turn-taking in conversation fosters understanding and promotes peace in the community. See WCF 21.5

Word planted in you - James 1:21

Christians are commanded to take off all sinful filth and abundant amounts of evil. Wisdom urges an exchange, a wardrobe change. By laying aside sinful practices, God’s people can put on righteousness. This requires humility and repentance. Only when we admit that our own standards will not lead us into righteousness, can we receive the implanted word. This is the same word of v. 18, the Gospel which gives new life. The essence of wisdom is to allow God’s Life-Giving Word to fill and guide our lives. Indeed, this word will save your souls, at the final judgment.

Practice the word of God - James 1:22

A wise Christian will always hear and practice the word of God (Rom. 2:13; Matt. 7:21; Luke 8:21; John 13:17). Trusting God’s Word leads to obeying God’s Word. James warns his readers that the one who listens, but does not obey is deceiving himself.

Mirror - James 1:23-24

James uses the analogy of a mirror. Mirrors were made of polished metal in the ancient world, but were used then, as now, for grooming. As v21 indicated, we are dirty and need help seeing what areas of our lives need cleansing and straightening. Only a foolish person examines his natural face and does nothing to clean it up. Christians should expect God’s Word not only to reveal our imperfections, but also to show us what to do to correct them.

Perfect law - James 1:25

James introduces the perfect law of freedom as another way of describing the word of truth in v. 18, and the royal law in 2:8. For James, God’s law is the word and rule of Israel’s Messiah, Jesus the Lord. Anyone who looks to this law and not only hears it, but also does it, will be blessed in his actions. For those who have been regenerated by this Word (1:18) and liberated by this King, His law delivers from unjust human traditions and law codes as well as from bondage to human cravings for power. See WCF 19.2; WLC 160; WSC 90.

Tongue - James 1:26

The person who thinks himself to be religious must also be able to control his tongue. This is a restatement of v. 19 and a reminder that our speech practices are expressions of doing the word. James also reminds his readers that anyone who does not control his speech deceives his heart. Indeed, if a person will not repent of wicked speech, his religion is worthless, that is to say, false. See notes also 3:1-12.

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