James 3:14

But if you harbor bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast in it or deny the truth.

Study Bible

But if you harbor
The phrase "harbor" suggests a deliberate act of holding onto or nurturing something within oneself. In the Greek, the word used is "echō," which means to have or hold. This implies an intentional choice to keep these negative emotions alive. In a conservative Christian perspective, this is a call to self-examination, urging believers to be vigilant about what they allow to take root in their hearts. The heart, in biblical terms, is the center of one's being, encompassing mind, will, and emotions.

bitter jealousy
The term "bitter" comes from the Greek "pikros," which denotes something sharp or pungent. "Jealousy" is translated from "zēlos," which can mean zeal or fervor but in this context refers to an envious and resentful attitude. Historically, jealousy has been a destructive force, leading to division and strife, as seen in the accounts of Cain and Abel or Joseph and his brothers. The Bible consistently warns against jealousy, as it is contrary to the love and unity that should characterize the Christian community.

and selfish ambition
"Selfish ambition" is translated from the Greek "eritheia," which originally referred to a self-seeking pursuit of political office by unfair means. This term suggests a divisive, self-centered attitude that seeks personal gain at the expense of others. In the early church, such attitudes were particularly dangerous, threatening the unity and witness of the Christian community. The conservative Christian view emphasizes humility and service to others, following the example of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve.

in your hearts
The "heart" in biblical language is more than just the seat of emotions; it is the core of one's identity and decision-making. The Greek word "kardia" encompasses thoughts, intentions, and desires. The heart is where true character is formed, and thus, harboring negative traits like jealousy and ambition can corrupt one's entire being. Scripture often calls for a pure heart, one that is aligned with God's will and purposes.

do not boast in it
"Boast" comes from the Greek "katakauchaomai," meaning to glory against or to exult over. This implies a sense of pride or arrogance in one's negative traits. The Bible consistently warns against pride, which is seen as the root of many sins. Boasting in sin is a denial of the transformative power of the Gospel, which calls believers to humility and repentance.

or deny the truth
To "deny" is from the Greek "pseudomai," meaning to lie or speak falsely. "The truth" refers to the reality of God's word and the moral and ethical standards it sets forth. Denying the truth is akin to living in hypocrisy, claiming to follow Christ while harboring attitudes and behaviors contrary to His teachings. In a conservative Christian context, this is a call to integrity and authenticity, living in a way that reflects the truth of the Gospel in every aspect of life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. James
The author of the epistle, traditionally identified as James, the brother of Jesus and a leader in the early Jerusalem church. He writes to Jewish Christians scattered among the nations, offering practical guidance for living out their faith.

2. Early Christian Communities
The recipients of the letter, who were facing various trials and temptations, including internal conflicts and the challenge of living out their faith in a hostile environment.

3. Jerusalem
The central hub of early Christianity and the location where James was a prominent leader. The teachings in the letter reflect the moral and ethical concerns of the Jerusalem church.

Teaching Points

Guard Your Heart
The Greek word for "harbor" implies a deliberate nurturing of negative emotions. Believers are called to examine their hearts and root out jealousy and selfish ambition.

Truth and Integrity
Boasting and denying the truth are linked to a lack of integrity. Christians are encouraged to live truthfully, acknowledging their weaknesses and seeking God's help to overcome them.

Community Impact
Bitter jealousy and selfish ambition can cause division and strife within the church. Believers should strive for unity and peace, promoting a spirit of cooperation and mutual edification.

Humility as a Virtue
The opposite of selfish ambition is humility. By valuing others above ourselves, we reflect Christ's character and foster a healthy, loving community.

Spiritual Warfare
Recognize that harboring negative emotions is a spiritual battle. Equip yourself with prayer, scripture, and accountability to resist these temptations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How can we identify and address bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in our own hearts?

2. In what ways can the presence of these attitudes affect our relationships within the church community?

3. How does the teaching in James 3:14 align with the fruit of the Spirit as described in Galatians 5:22-23?

4. What practical steps can we take to cultivate humility and consider others better than ourselves, as encouraged in Philippians 2:3-4?

5. How can we support one another in overcoming the temptations of jealousy and selfish ambition, fostering a spirit of unity and love?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Galatians 5:19-21
Paul lists the works of the flesh, including jealousy and selfish ambition, which are contrary to the fruit of the Spirit. This connection highlights the destructive nature of these attitudes within the Christian community.

Philippians 2:3-4
Paul encourages believers to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility to consider others better than themselves. This passage complements James 3:14 by offering a positive alternative to selfish ambition.

Proverbs 14:30
This proverb speaks to the destructive nature of envy, which rots the bones, aligning with James' warning against harboring bitter jealousy.