"But the
wisdom that is from above is first pure..." James 3:17
One of the problems with the English language (as I see it,) is that we toss around the same word for a number of circumstances. Let me give you an example.
Let's use the word "love." Here is just a sample of the word being used in 3 different circumstances:
- I love my daughter.
- I love my wife.
- I love potato chips.
It's pretty safe to say that I don't love my wife the same way
that I love potato chips...but I've used this word "love" in every circumstance.
When it comes to the word "pure," the meaning of the word can often be different, depending on the person who is using it, and the circumstance that they are using it in. Different words....different meanings.
When some people read the above verse from the book of James, they think that it means "pure" in the theological or doctrinal sense. In other words, some people believe
that if they have the correct understanding of scripture, that this represents the "pureness" that our verse is talking about.
The word here suggests a QUALITY in something. The root word is also seen in the scriptures at times when using the following words:
truly, surely, indeed, certainly
This word, though often applied to straight doctrinal purity, suggests stability, focus, and a "locked-in" devotion to God with ones heart.
Let's keep in mind,
that this word "pure" comes in the package of Godly wisdom...Sold out to God. Sold out to His love for people. Sold out to His ministry and desires for the human race...truly, certainly, surely...indeed.
It's humbling to think that He would include people in this. What an awesome responsibility and privilege to participate!
