does not come from above
The phrase "does not come from above" indicates the origin of this false wisdom. In the biblical context, "from above" often refers to divine origin, as seen in James 1:17, where every good and perfect gift is described as coming from above. The Greek word "anothen" is used here, emphasizing that true wisdom is a gift from God, contrasting with the earthly nature of the wisdom being criticized.

but is earthly
The term "earthly" is derived from the Greek word "epigeios," which means pertaining to the earth. This suggests a wisdom that is limited to human understanding and concerns, devoid of spiritual insight. In a biblical context, "earthly" often carries a negative connotation, implying a focus on worldly matters rather than heavenly ones. This aligns with the conservative Christian view that true wisdom should be rooted in God's eternal truths rather than transient worldly values.

unspiritual
The word "unspiritual" comes from the Greek "psychikos," which refers to the natural or soulish aspect of humanity, as opposed to the spiritual. This type of wisdom is driven by human desires and instincts rather than the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 2:14, Paul uses a similar term to describe the natural man who does not accept the things of the Spirit of God. This highlights the need for discernment and reliance on the Holy Spirit to guide one's understanding and actions.

demonic
The term "demonic" is particularly strong, derived from the Greek "daimoniodes," indicating something that is influenced by evil spirits. This suggests that the false wisdom James describes is not merely human but has a sinister, spiritual dimension. In a conservative Christian perspective, this serves as a stark warning against being deceived by wisdom that appears appealing but ultimately leads away from God. It underscores the spiritual battle between good and evil, urging believers to seek wisdom that aligns with God's will and character.

(1) the earthly (vers. 15, 16);

(2) the heavenly (vers. 17, 18). Verse 15. - " This wisdom [of which you boast] is not a wisdom which cometh down from above." Vulgate, non est enim ista sctpientia desursum descendens. But is earthly, sensual, devilish. Dr. Farrar well says that this wisdom is "earthly because it avariciously cares for the goods of earth (Philippians 3:19); animal, because it is under the sway of animal lusts (1 Corinthians 2:14); demon-like, because full of pride, egotism, malignity, and ambition, which are the works of the devil (1 Timothy 4:1)." Sensual (ψυχική), Vulgate, animalis; R.V. margin, natural or animal. The position of the word is remarkable, occurring between ἐπίγειος and δαιμονιώδης. it is never found in the LXX., nor (apparently) in the apostolic Fathers. In the New Testament it occurs six times - three times of the "natural" body, which is contrasted with the σῶμα πνευματικόν (1 Corinthians 15:44 (twice), 46); and three times with a moral emphasis resting upon it, "and in every instance a most depreciatory" (see 1 Corinthians 2:14), "The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God," and Jude 1:19, Ψυχικοὶ, πνεῦμα μὴ ἔχοντες. The ψυχή in general in the New Testament is that which is common to man with the brute creation, including the passions, appetites, etc.; and therefore, by the use of this word ψυχικός to describe the wisdom which cometh not from above, but is "earthly, sensual [or, 'animal'], devilish," we are reminded of the contrast between the spirit of man which goeth upward and the spirit of a beast which goeth downward (Ecclesiastes 3:21). The "animal" man, then, is one who is ruled entirely by the ψυχή in the lower sense of the word; and by the depreciatory sense given to the adjective we are strongly reminded that "nature" is nothing without the aid of grace. See further Archbishop Trench's 'Synonyms of the N. T.,' § 71, and for the later history of the word (it was applied by the Montanists to the orthodox), Suicer's 'Thesaurus,' vol. it. p. 1589.

Parallel Commentaries ...