Lecture Notes: The Book of James - Wisdom

Introduction

• Speaker: Matt, a pastor
• Series: Continuing in the Book of James
• Key Question: If God could give you one thing, what would you ask for?
  • Reference to Solomon in the Bible, who asked for wisdom

Solomon's Request for Wisdom

• Background: Solomon, son of King David, became the king of Israel
• God's Offer: 1 Kings 3, God asks Solomon for his wish
• Solomon's Choice: Solomon asks for wisdom
• Outcome: God grants him wisdom, making Solomon unique

Wisdom Literature

• Solomon authored Proverbs and Ecclesiastes
• These books, along with Job, form the wisdom literature of the Old Testament
• Proverbs 8: Wisdom is personified as calling out for people to seek her

Importance of Wisdom

• Described as more precious than silver or gold
• Main Idea: Desire wisdom above all else

Types of Wisdom According to James

• Earthly Wisdom vs. Heavenly Wisdom
  • Earthly wisdom is contrasted with heavenly wisdom in the Book of James
• James' Intent: Showing practical faith and examining life to match beliefs

Understanding Wisdom

• Definition: Ability to discern relationships and apply knowledge
• Biblical View: Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs)
  • Fearing God means reverence and awe, not fear

Earthly Wisdom

• Characteristics: Earthly, unspiritual, demonic
• Historical Context: The Enlightenment as an example
• Effects: Leads to disorder and evil
• Heart Issues: Bitter envy and selfish ambition

Examination of Earthly Wisdom

• Indicators: Envy and selfish ambition in the heart
• Consequences: Disorder and evil practices
• Reflection: Examine your own life for these traits

Heavenly Wisdom

• Characteristics: Comes from heaven, brings humility
• Ethical Aspect: Pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, sincere
• Outcome: Leads to a harvest of righteousness

Living Out Wisdom

• Relational Aspect: Wisdom is relational, reflecting on how it relates to God and to others
• God as the Relational Source: Wisdom is a reflection of God's triune, relational nature

Conclusion

• Jesus as the Embodiment of Wisdom: Jesus Christ is the full revelation of God's wisdom
• Cross as Wisdom: The cross, though seen as foolish by the world, is the ultimate demonstration of God's wisdom
• Call to Action: Seek and live out heavenly wisdom, rejecting earthly wisdom

Final Prayer

• Prayer for Wisdom: Acknowledgement of God as the source of true wisdom and a plea to live out heavenly wisdom in life