James 3:17

First pure (prwton men agnh). First in rank and time. Hagno is from the same root as agio (holy), old adjective, pure from fault, not half-good and half-bad, like that above. Then peaceable (epeita eirhnikh). Old adjective from eirhnh (peace), loving peace here, bringing peace in Hebrews 12:11 (only N.T. examples). But clearly great as peace is, purity (righteousness) comes before peace and peace at any price is not worth the having. Hence Jesus spurned the devil's peace of surrender. Gentle (epieikh). Old adjective (from eiko, reasonable, fair), equitable ( Philippians 4:5 ; 1 Peter 2:18 ). No English word renders it clearly. Easy to be entreated (eupeiqh). Old adjective (eu, peiqomai), compliant, approachable. Only here in N.T. Mercy (eleou). Practical help ( 1 Peter 2:13 1 Peter 2:16 ). Good fruits (karpwn agaqwn). Kaloi karpoi in Matthew 7:17 . Good deeds the fruit of righteousness ( Philippians 1:11 ). Without variance (adiakrito). Late verbal adjective (from alpha privative and diakrinw, to distinguish). "Unhesitating," not doubting (diakrinomeno) like the man in Philippians 1:6 . Here only in N.T. This wisdom does not put a premium on doubt. Without hypocrisy (anupokrito). Late and rare verbal adjective (alpha privative and upokrinw). Not hypocritical, sincere, unfeigned ( Romans 12:9 ).