This illustration is so clear and so common that it needs little comment. The Greek verb katanoeo refers to careful observation. It does not mean to cast a hasty superficial glance, as some have suggested. read more
The law to which James referred is the revelation of God’s will contained in Scripture (cf. Matthew 5:17). It is perfect because it is the perfect will of a perfect God."Unlike the imperfect metal mirror in the previous illustration, this law is able to give the beholder a true and undistorted revelation of himself." [Note: Hiebert, James, p. 122.] "The law of God is perfect, first, because it perfectly expresses his nature and, secondly, because it perfectly matches ours." [Note: Motyer, p.... read more
"Religious" (Gr. threskos, used only here in the New Testament) describes someone who fears or worships God. In particular, it refers to the outward consequences of what one believes (i.e., piety, good works) rather than to what he believes or the fact that he believes deeply. The Jews, who were James’ original readers, typically regarded alms-giving, prayer, fasting, regular attendance at worship services, and the observance of holy days and feasts as signs of true spirituality (cf. Matthew... read more
4. The external behavior 1:26-27James proceeded to explain in James 1:26 to James 2:13 what a doer of works (James 1:25) does. read more
Taking care of orphans and widows (conduct) is a duty that lies close to the heart of God (cf. Exodus 22:22-24; Deuteronomy 10:18; Isaiah 1:17; Jeremiah 5:28; Ezekiel 22:7; Zechariah 7:10). Yet many who professed to love Him neglected it (Psalms 68:5; Ecclesiastes 4:1; Mark 12:40). [Note: See Richard D. Patterson, "The Widow, the Orphan, and the Poor in the Old Testament and the Extra-Biblical Literature," Bibliotheca Sacra 130:519 (July-September 1973):223-34.] Likewise personal moral purity... read more
1:25 view (f-6) Lit. 'stoops down to look into,' as Luke 24:12 ; John 20:5 . read more
1:26 himself (g-5) Or 'seem.' see 1 Corinthians 10:12 . read more
1:27 Father (h-9) Or 'God the Father,' Lit. 'God and Father.' read more
The Power of Faith Under Temptation1. Servant] better, ’slave.’ The word does not suggest any degradation, but only absolute surrender to the Master. St. James’s humility prevents the mention of the earthly relationship. Scattered abroad] RV ’of the Dispersion.’ Jews were found (sometimes in great numbers) in all the cities of the Roman empire. They kept up their connexion with the mother-country by going up to the great Jewish feasts. Greeting] better, ’joy be with you.’ This form of... read more
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Expository Notes of Dr. Thomas Constable - James 1:22-25
3. The complete response 1:22-25Whereas James 1:19-21 stress the importance of listening to the Word, James 1:22-25 emphasize the necessity of putting the Word into practice, applying it. read more