�Who is wise and understanding?�

Introduction. �(James 3:13a).� This text asks an important question. Tonight let�s consider how the Holy Spirit answers this question for us in God�s word, so that we can come to understand how we may be considered �wise and understanding.� �

I.� The man that restrains his lips.

1. Sin is found in many words (Prov. 10:19).
2. A fool may be counted as wise through restraint (Prov. 17:28).
3. A fool vents all his feelings (Prov. 29:11). ASV �uttereth all his anger�; KJV �all is mind.� Heb. ruach �spirit, breath��lit. �brings forth all this spirit.�
4. Failure to do so makes one�s religion useless (James� 1:19, 26).
    

II.� The man who wins souls (Prov. 11:30).

1. We are spiritual beings (Gen. 2:7). Heb. Nephesh = �soul.�
1. The New Testament distinguishes between soul and spirit (Heb. 4:12). A general distinction seems to be: Soul=the purely animate part of man; Spirit=the inner man which is like God.
2. Soulish = �Sensual� (James 3:15).
3. Generally synonymous with spirit (Matt. 16:26).
2. To win souls is to bring them to Jesus (James 5:19-20).
    

III.� The man that hears and obeys (Matt. 7:24-27).

1. Doers, not just hearers (James 1:22-25).
    

IV.� The man that makes preparation.

1. Foolish and wise virgins (Matt. 25:1-13).
2. The thief�s coming (Matt. 24:42-44).
    

V.� The man that redeems his time (Eph. 5:15-16).

VI.� The man who knows Scripture (2 Tim. 3:14-15).

VII.� The wise man has good conduct (James 3:13-18).