1. Verse 13 begins, "Who is wise and understanding among you?" In general, what are the usual criteria for determining if someone is "wise and understanding?"

Personal Reflection: Do you consider yourself "wise and understanding?" If not, how can you become "wise and understanding?"

2. The question in verse 13 is in the context of the church. What are the usual criteria for determining if someone is "wise and understanding" in the church?

3. Read James 3:13. How does one demonstrate wisdom? In other words, what results from true wisdom? How do you explain the connection between wisdom and humility?

Read James 3:14. This verse may be understood: "If you have bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about [being wise] or you lie against the truth." In other words, the person who claims to be wise, but is characterized by bitter envy and selfish ambition, proves that he/she is not truly wise.

4. The Greek word translated "envy" in verse 14 is zelos, from which we get the English word "zeal" (eagerness or fervor in the pursuit of something). Having zelos can be good or bad. What kind of zelos is bad? Why is it bad?

5. Read James 3:15-17. These verses contrast two kinds of "wisdom." False wisdom is "earthly, unspiritual, of the devil." True wisdom "comes from heaven" (that is, it is heavenly, spiritual, of God). List the characteristics of these two kinds of "wisdom" below.

"Wisdom" Characteristics
"Earthly, Unspiritual, of the Devil" Wisdom(False Wisdom) "Heavenly, Spiritual, of God" Wisdom(True Wisdom)

Personal Reflection: Which of the above characteristics are evident in your life?

6. What is the result of false wisdom (v. 16)? Read James 3:18. What is the result of true wisdom (v. 18)? Explain.

7. "Peacemaking" is central to this passage. What does it mean to be peacemaker? Do you think a peacemaker can always avoid conflict? Does a peacemaker always give in when opposed? Explain.

8. Based on this passage, how would you define "true wisdom?" What specific steps are needed in order to be truly "wise and understanding?" What do we need to realize? What do we need to do? (Consider Proverbs 1:7, 9:10, 2:6, 2:9, 2:20.)

Personal Application: What specific actions do you need to take to grow in heavenly wisdom? This week, reflect on Proverbs 1-4. Seek the true wisdom that comes from God through Bible reading and prayer (1:5). But remember that true wisdom involves doing, not merely listening (1:22). If you are not a Christian, the needed action is receiving Christ as your Lord and Savior.