Introduction

 

I.        James shares what we might call “a trio of graces” (James 1:19-20).

A.       “Swift to hear”.

B.       “Slow to speak”.

C.      “Slow to wrath”.

II.       From the context, it appears that these admonitions are given in regard to our reception of the word of God (James 1:18 & 21).

III.      Tonight we are going to concentrate on the third admonition; “slow to wrath”.

 

Text

 

I.        An overall look at anger and wrath

A.       Defining “anger” and “wrath”.

B.       The Old Testament books of wisdom say much about anger and wrath.

C.      The New Testament also says much against anger and wrath (Romans 12:19; Galatians 5:19-21; Ephesians 4:31; Colossians 3:8).

D.      Having said all that, we also note that some anger has a place.

1.       Paul concedes the point (Ephesians 4:26).

2.       On several occasions Jesus expressed anger (John 2:13-17; Matthew 23:13-36).

3.       God is presented as a God of anger as well as a God of love.

II.       A closer look at anger and wrath.

A.       Concerning the anger of God.

1.       God’s anger is always in response to evil (Romans 1:18 - 2:11).

2.       Man, with his imperfections, is not so capable!

3.       Therefore, just because God may display wrath and anger, this does not necessarily justify man doing so!

B.       Concerning the anger of Christ.

1.       What has already been said of God could also be said of Christ.

2.       In the examples of His anger there is no selfishness.

3.       His anger is directed to that which dishonors God.

a.       He remained silent to personal abuse (1 Peter 2:21-23).

b.       But when God was abused He was openly angry.

4.       Man’s anger is usually selfish.

a.       We often remain silent when God is dishonored.

b.       Our anger is manifest when someone offends us, not Him.

C.      Concerning the encouragement of properly handling anger (Ephesians 4:26).

1.       First, “do not sin”.

2.       Then, “do not let the sun go down on your wrath”.

 

Conclusion

 

I.        Concerning the subject of anger and wrath, we would do well to take James’ admonition to heart and to be “slow to wrath”.

II.       As with all things, we must consider how our anger reflects upon our Lord (2 Timothy 2:24-26).