Wisdom of Above

Earthly ‘wisdom’ and heavenly wisdom are diametrically opposed. The one yields chaos and evil, the other the blessings of righteousness and peace. How is the believer to recognize and pursue the wisdom that is from above? Look to the character of Jesus Christ, Himself the very wisdom of God.

I. Heavenly wisdom is demonstrated not primarily by words but by works.

II. The jealous and factious spirit of the age produces ‘wisdom’ whose source is not God, but Satan.

III. Earthly ‘wisdom,’ fueled by envy and rivalry, results in chaos and wickedness.

IV. Since Christ is the very wisdom of God, the qualities of heavenly wisdom align perfectly with the character of Jesus.

Questions:

1. What are some examples of commonly held ‘wisdom’ in our day that are clearly contradictory to Godly wisdom?

2. What is the connection between works and wisdom?

3. Why does James call the wisdom that does not come from heaven ‘demonic?’ Why can’t there be a category of wisdom that is neutral, neither from God nor from Satan?

4. Compare the characteristics of the wise man to the Beatitudes in Matthew 5.

5. What is the relationship between righteousness and peacemaking? Shouldn’t the believer always be fighting for the cause of righteousness?