SERIES: The Book of James
TEXT: James 3:13-18
MESSAGE: “Heavenly Wisdom For A Chaotic World”

Difference between worldly wisdom and godly wisdom:

Worldly Wisdom
Worldly wisdom means that the source of wisdom is not God, it’s man. Ultimately worldly wisdom is rooted in self-centeredness. Worldly wisdom is a mindset and approach to life that is driven by self-interest, ambition, and the values of the present world.

Godly Wisdom
Godly wisdom is a mindset and approach to life that is rooted in a reverence for God and a desire to live according to His will. It aims to honor God and align one’s actions with His word.

POINT 1: True wisdom is revealed through a life of humility

HOW YOU LIVE MATTERS… THE BIBLE IS NOT ONLY A BOOK ABOUT ORTHODOXY (WHAT WE BELIEVE) BUT IT’S ALSO A BOOK ABOUT ORTHOPRAXY (HOW WE LIVE)

“I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again: We don’t just need more gospel-centered churches; we need to live gospel-centered lives.”

POINT 2: Worldly wisdom originates from a demonic source.

GOSPEL APPLICATION:
You and I are just like the Jewish brothers and sisters to whom James was writing. We can be bitter, angry, jealous, self-centered, and not always have the right motives and heart posture. Often putting our interests before the interests of others but how differently did our heavenly Father respond to us!

Seeing this, the gospel of Jesus’ sacrifice for us, is the only vision that changes us. James’ warning about trusting in worldly wisdom may convict us; sermons about the wisdom God provides may equip us; but only seeing Christ on the cross gives us the power to break the cycle of selfishness and reliance on worldly wisdom.

POINT 3: Heavenly wisdom is pure and produces peace.

As followers of Christ and as a church we need to remember to go before the Lord and pray for wisdom. May we be desperate for it. If you’re not desperate for it ask the Holy Spirit to show you your need for godly wisdom.