King James Version
What Does James 4:16 Mean?
“But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.”
Context
14
Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. It: or, For it is
15
For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live , and do this, or that.
16
But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.
17
Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(16) **But now . . . .**—How different is the case with you, cries St. James; you actually glory and delight in your own self-confidence and presumption, and every such rejoicing is evil. The word for “boastings” is the same as that translated “the pride of life” in 1John 2:16—*i.e., *its braggart boastfulness, not the innocent gladness of living. It is the trust of the “ungodly” (Psalm 10:6, “There shall no harm happen unto me”), and the mistaken confidence of even such godly men as Job (Job 29:18, “shall die in my nest”), before the Almighty instructs them by trouble, and loss, and pain.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of James. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
James 4:16 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to James 4:16
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge