Bible Commentary

James 4

James 4 — Overview

Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible · Matthew Henry (1662–1714) · Public Domain

In this chapter we are directed to consider, I. Some causes of contention, besides those mentioned in the foregoing chapter, and to watch against them, ver. 1-5. II. We are taught to abandon the friendship of this world, so as to submit and subject ourselves entirely to God, ver. 4-10. III. All detraction and rash judgment of others are to be carefully avoided, ver. 11, 12. IV. We must preserve a constant regard, and pay the utmost deference to the disposals of divine Providence, ver. 13, to the end.

Origin of War and Contention; Against Pride; Submission to God. (a. d. 61.)

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James 4 — OverviewJames 4 · Treasury of Scripture KnowledgeJames 4:1, We are to strive against covetousness; James 4:4, intemperance; James 4:5, pride; James 4:11, detraction and rash judgment of others; James 4:13, and not to be confident in the good success of worldly…James 4 — OverviewJames 4 · John Gill's Exposition of the Entire BibleIn this chapter the apostle gives the true cause of contentions and strifes; and cautions against intemperance, covetousness, pride, detraction, and vain confidence. Having, in the latter part of the preceding chapter,…James 4:1-10James 4:1-10 · Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole BibleThe former chapter speaks of envying one another, as the great spring of strifes and contentions; this chapter speaks of a lust after worldly things, and a setting too great a value upon worldly pleasures and…James 4:1James 4:1 · Treasury of Scripture Knowledgewhence: James 3:14-18 fightings: or, brawlings come they: James 1:14; Genesis 4:5-8; Jeremiah 17:9; Matthew 15:19; Mark 7:21-23; John 8:44; Romans 8:7; 1 Timothy 6:4-10; Titus 3:3; 1 Peter 1:14, 1 Peter 2:11, 1 Peter…James 4:2James 4:2 · Treasury of Scripture Knowledgelust: James 5:1-5; Proverbs 1:19; Ecclesiastes 4:8; Habakkuk 2:5; 1 Timothy 6:9-10 kill: or, envy because: James 1:5; Isaiah 7:12; Matthew 7:7-8; Luke 11:9-13; John 4:10, John 16:24James 4:2James 4:2 · John Gill's Exposition of the Entire BibleYe lust, and have not,.... The apostle proceeds to show the unsuccessfulness of many in their desires and pursuits after worldly things; some might be like the sluggard, whose soul desireth all good things, and yet he…