Sharper Iron — Wisdom from Above: Which Wisdom Will You Follow?

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Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz, associate pastor and headmaster at Grace Lutheran Church and School in Brenham, TX joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study James 3:13-18.

The Scriptural witness teaches us that true wisdom is a matter of the 1st Commandment. Only those who trust in the one true God, revealed in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, have true wisdom and the understanding to use it. This is seen in meekness, the strength of knowing one’s place before God and neighbor. James calls all Christians to examine themselves in this matter, to look within our hearts to see what envy and selfishness might lead to pride and lies. Though this may have an appearance of wisdom, it is truly demonic, for it does not stem from justifying trust in Jesus. This demonic wisdom only leads to the fruit of confusion and all sorts of evil. True wisdom is a gift from God above. This wisdom is seen through the fruit manifested by the work of the Holy Spirit in the sons of God, true peacemakers in Him.

“Wisdom from Above” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the Epistle of St. James. Contrary to what some might claim, this short epistle does not contradict St. Paul. Instead, St. James makes different, yet complementary, points concerning the Christian life. Written in a style similar to the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, this insightful epistle comforts, confronts, and strengthens Christians to live a life of good works that flow from God’s gift of faith, even in the midst of trials.

Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God’s Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen.

Sharper Iron is underwritten by Lutheran Church Extension Fund, where your investments help support the work of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. Visit lcef.org.

James 3:13-18

Wisdom from Above

13 Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth. 15 This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. 18 And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.