3:13

Who is wise and understanding among you?: With this rhetorical question, James introduces his discussion on what characterizes true wisdom as opposed to earthly wisdom. (Jas 3:13-18; see study notes on Jas 3:15, 17.) Christians who have “the wisdom from above” know how to apply knowledge and understanding from God in a way that brings good results. (Pr 2:10-15; 9:10; Jas 1:5) James may especially have had in mind elders who serve as teachers in the congregation. (Jas 3:1, 2) However, the question James here poses could rightly be directed to all worshippers of Jehovah; all need to examine themselves to see whether they display the wisdom from God. (Jas 3:17) Later in this chapter, James explains that Christians show godly wisdom not only in their speech but also in their everyday conduct.

wise and understanding: As used in this context, the terms “wise” and “understanding” complement each other. (Compare Job 28:12; Jer 10:12; Ho 14:9.) According to one lexicon, the Greek word here rendered “understanding” describes a person who is “knowledgeable, well-instructed, skilled.” A wise person would know how to apply such understanding. The Greek words for “wise and understanding” occur together in the Septuagint, for example, at De 1:13, 15; 4:6.

with a mildness that comes from wisdom: James shows here that mildness comes as a result of genuine, godly wisdom, “the wisdom from above.” (Jas 3:17) He suggests that when Christians ask God for such wisdom and apply it, they will display genuine mildness in what they say and do, thus promoting peace. (Eph 4:1-3; Jas 1:5) Those who wish to qualify as teachers in the congregation need both mildness and wisdom in order to be effective and useful in this vital work. (Jas 3:1, 2) Such teachers are to be, not arrogant or opinionated, but gentle, calm, and peaceful. (2Ti 2:24 and study note, 25 and study note) Christian mildness is the opposite of the qualities James refers to next.​—Jas 3:14-16.