James 2:4 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

Bible Comments

Are ye not then partial in yourselves and are become judges of evil thoughts? Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?

Are ye not then partial, х ou (G3756) diekritheete (G1252)] - Have ye not drawn (unbelieving) distinctions (preferring one to another.) So Jude 1:22. But see note.

In yourselves - according to your carnal inclination (Grotius).

Are become judges of evil thoughts, х kritai (G2923)] - "judges," and х diekritheete (G1252)] 'partial' are akin. Translate, 'Do ye not partially judge between men, and are become evilly-thinking judges' (distinction-makers) (Mark 7:21). The "evil thoughts" are in the judges themselves (Luke 18:6): Greek, 'judge of injustice,' "unjust judge." Alford, 'Did ye not (by such distinctions) doubt' (for faith is inconsistent with distinctions between rich and poor). So the Greek means, Matthew 21:21; Acts 10:20; Romans 4:20; James 2:1 shows that diekritheete (G1252) must comprehend 'unbelieving distinction-making.' As it implies the process; so kritai (G2923) the definite result: the diakrisis (G1253) (so Acts 15:9 uses the active) precedes the krisis (G2920). The same play on the kindred words occurs Romans 14:10; Romans 14:23. The blame of being a judge, when one ought to be an obeyer, of the law, occurs James 4:11.]

James 2:4

4 Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?