"Reasonable, Ready To Obey"

"Reasonable." What does it mean to be reasonable? According to scholars, the original Greek word rendered "reasonable" at James 3:17 is difficult to translate. Translators have used such words as "gentle," "forebearing" and "considerate." A footnote in the New World Translation indicates that the literal meaning is "yielding." How can we demonstrate that this aspect of the wisdom from above is at work in us?

"Let your reasonableness become known to all men," says Philippians 4:5. Another translation reads: "Have a reputation for being reasonable." (The New Testament in Modern English, by J.B. Phillips) Notice that it is not so much a question of how we see ourselves; it is a question of how others see us, of how we are known. A reasonable person does not always insist on the letter of the law or on having his own way. Instead, he is willing to listen to others and, when appropriate, to yield to their wishes. He is also gentle, not rough or harsh, in his dealings with others. While this is essential for all Christians, it is especially important for those serving as elders. Gentleness attracts, making elders approachable. (1 Thessalonians 2:7, 8) We all do well to ask ourselves, 'Do I have reputation for being considerate, yielding and gentle?'

"Ready to obey." The Greek word rendered "ready to obey" is not found elsewhere in the Christian Greek Scriptures,. According to one scholar, this word "is often used of military discipline." It conveys the idea of "easy to be persuaded" and submissive." One who is governed by the wisdom from above readily submits to what the Scriptures say. He is not known as one who makes up his mind and then refuses to be influenced by any facts that contradict him. Rather, he is quick to change when he is presented with clear Scriptural evidence that he has taken a wrong stand or has drawn erroneous conclusions. Is that how you are know by other?

Next time: "Full Of Mercy And Good Fruits"

Draw Close To Jehovah, 2002