Anchor Verses:

James 3:17–18, Proverbs 9:10, Galatians 5:16–17

Focus Statement:

True wisdom is not merely what you know but who you become through the presence of Jesus; it’s a life marked by peace, purity, and humility—not envy or ambition.

Introduction: 

  • James is the “Proverbs” of the New Testament: practical wisdom under Christ’s rule.

  • James 3:13–18 addresses the question: Who is wise and understanding?

  • Wisdom is shown through humility and righteous living.

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The Definition of Wisdom:

  • Wisdom: An understanding about life’s purpose, built on experience and knowledge, guiding decisions and lifestyle.

  • Everyone lives by some kind of wisdom—true or false.

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False Wisdom:

  • Understanding: Life is about me; self-centered worldview.

  • Character Traits: Bitter envy, selfish ambition.

  • Source: The world, the flesh, and the devil—feeds a cycle of self-gratification and spiritual disorder.

  • Lifestyle: Disorder, confusion, justification of sin, and spiritual death (James 1:14–15).

  • Must cut out the root (source), not just manage symptoms (sin).

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True Wisdom:

  • Understanding: Life is about becoming a person of love and compassion.

  • Character Traits: Pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy, impartial, sincere (v.17).

  • Source: God and the presence of the Holy Spirit.

  • Lifestyle: Righteousness sown in peace; wisdom flows from time with Jesus.

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Sermon Questions

  • What type of wisdom do your decisions and attitudes reveal—one rooted in selfish ambition or in the peace of Christ?
  • How can you practically cut off the sources of false wisdom (the world, the flesh, the enemy) in your life this week?
  • In what ways can you pursue true wisdom by spending more time with Jesus and letting the Holy Spirit shape your character?

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