James 3:16

16 For where emulation and strife [are], there [is] disorder and every evil thing.

James 3:16 Meaning and Commentary

Ver. 16 For where envying and strife is
Where these are cherished in the heart, and especially where they break out into action, in families, neighbourhoods, states, or churches:

there is confusion and every evil work;
these occasion disturbances, raise uneasiness, make disquietude, and cause tumults whenever they appear; and put persons upon doing everything that is wicked, to gratify such insatiable lusts.

James 3:16 In-Context

14 but if ye have bitter emulation and strife in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth.

15 This is not the wisdom which comes down from above, but earthly, natural, devilish.

16 For where emulation and strife [are], there [is] disorder and every evil thing.

17 But the wisdom from above first is pure, then peaceful, gentle, yielding, full of mercy and good fruits, unquestioning, unfeigned.

18 But [the] fruit of righteousness in peace is sown for them that make peace.