14 But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition(A) in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth.(B) 15 Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven(C) but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.(D) 16 For where you have envy and selfish ambition,(E) there you find disorder and every evil practice.

17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven(F) is first of all pure; then peace-loving,(G) considerate, submissive, full of mercy(H) and good fruit, impartial and sincere.(I) 18 Peacemakers(J) who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.(K)

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14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not be arrogant, and [as a result] be in defiance of the truth. 15 This [superficial] wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly (secular), natural (unspiritual), even demonic. 16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder [unrest, rebellion] and every evil thing and morally degrading practice. 17 But the wisdom from above is first pure [morally and spiritually undefiled], then peace-loving [courteous, considerate], gentle, reasonable [and willing to listen], full of compassion and good fruits. It is unwavering, without [self-righteous] hypocrisy [and self-serving guile]. 18 And the seed whose fruit is righteousness (spiritual maturity) is sown in peace by those who make peace [by actively encouraging goodwill between individuals].

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14 But if you have (A)bitter envy and [a]self-seeking in your hearts, (B)do not boast and lie against the truth. 15 (C)This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. 16 For (D)where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. 17 But (E)the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, (F)without partiality (G)and without hypocrisy. 18 (H)Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

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Footnotes

  1. James 3:14 selfish ambition