[217 words]
How can we tell a spiritual person from a worldly person? The Bible tells us in several places. In James 3, the terms used are “Godly wise” implying a contrast with foolish. “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy” (James 3:17, KJV).
Who are the spiritual people? Following is a short study of this verse.
There are a number of people who represent themselves as being wise. But the Bible says they are otherwise. “Wisdom from above” (true wisdom) according to James 3:17, is first “pure.” It does not have alternative motives. It is “peaceable.” It does not break apart congregations, families, neighborhoods or communities. In fact, the phrase “without partiality” has an alternate translation “without wrangling.”
Other terms used here to describe true wisdom include “gentle.” A spiritual man or woman can correct another without being rude or harsh. It is “easy to be entreated.” In other words, the spiritual people are approachable whenever another is having a difficult time.
And, most of all, truly spiritual people are “without hypocrisy.” This does not mean that spiritually mature people don’t make mistakes. They do! It does mean that their motives are always pure.
Larry Fitzgerald
Woodlawn church of Christ
Abilene, TX