Title: Two Pictures of Wisdom

Text: James 3:13-18

Outline:

I. Diagnostic Crisis (v13)

II. Fake Wisdom (v14-16)

III. Heavenly Wisdom (v17-18)

Personal Reflection & Small Group Questions

Please complete this study on your own, then bring it to your small group for discussion.

1. Looking back over your notes from this week’s sermon and text, what particularly caught your attention, challenged or confused you?

2. Who in your life has exemplified and imparted godly wisdom? What specific characteristics—particularly the meekness of wisdom—mark his or her life?

3. How does the world’s definition of success and wisdom differ from Scripture’s definition? What does James say is the ultimate source and destination of false wisdom?

4. Compare the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3–12) to the profile James gives in verse 17. How do the Beatitudes tie to true wisdom, and how do both point us directly to the character of Jesus?

5. Reviewing the characteristics in verse 17, where do you find it hardest to display heavenly wisdom (e.g., at home, church, work)? 

6. Where are you tempted to fight with worldly weapons instead of sowing in peace?