James 1:3

Knowing [this], that the trying of your faith worketh patience.

Knowing {G1097} this, that {G3754} the trying {G1383} of your {G5216} faith {G4102} worketh {G2716} patience {G5281}.

for you know that the testing of your trust produces perseverance.

because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.

knowing that the proving of your faith worketh patience.

Commentary on James 1:3 (KJV)

James 1:3 (KJV): "Knowing [this], that the trying of your faith worketh patience."

Context and Meaning

This verse follows James's instruction to consider it "all joy" when facing various trials (James 1:2). Here, he explains why a believer can have joy in trials. The letter is addressed to Jewish Christians scattered outside of Palestine, facing persecution and difficulties. James is encouraging them to persevere in their faith.

The phrase "knowing [this]" refers back to the understanding that trials serve a divine purpose. The core message is that the process of testing or proving one's faith produces steadfast endurance.

Key Themes

  • The Purpose of Trials: Trials are not random or meaningless occurrences for the believer. They are opportunities for faith to be tested and strengthened.
  • The Nature of Faith: True faith is not just a belief but a living trust that is active and can be proven through difficult circumstances.
  • The Development of Patience (Endurance): The ultimate positive outcome of a tried faith is the development of patience or steadfastness. This is not merely passive waiting, but active endurance under pressure.

Linguistic Insight

The Greek word translated "trying" (δοκίμιον - dokimion) refers to the process of testing something, like assaying metal to determine its purity and genuineness. It suggests that trials reveal the true nature of one's faith.

The Greek word for "patience" (ὑπομονή - hypomonē) is more accurately translated as "endurance" or "steadfastness." It literally means "remaining under" or "bearing up" under difficulty, not giving up.

Cross-References

  • Romans 5:3 - "And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;" (A parallel concept presented by Paul).
  • Hebrews 12:11 - "Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby." (Discusses the difficult but beneficial result of God's discipline/testing).

Practical Application

Understanding this verse can change our perspective on difficulties. Instead of viewing trials solely as obstacles or punishments, we can see them as tools God uses to refine our faith and build spiritual maturity. This knowledge empowers believers to endure with hope, knowing that the testing process is producing a valuable spiritual quality: steadfast endurance.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Romans 5:3

    And not only [so], but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;

  • Romans 5:4

    And patience, experience; and experience, hope:

  • Hebrews 10:36

    For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

  • Colossians 1:11

    Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;

  • Romans 8:28

    And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose.

  • 1 Peter 1:7

    That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

  • 2 Corinthians 4:17

    For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding [and] eternal weight of glory;
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