What does James 4:2 mean?

Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. James 4:2

Explanation

James 4:2 speaks to human desire and the dysfunction that arises when those desires lead to harmful actions and an unfulfilled life. It begins by addressing the readers directly, pointing out the futility of intense longing or coveting that does not lead to fulfillment. The verse suggests that this deep yearning can even lead to extreme measures like killing or fighting to obtain what is desired. The inability to acquire what one wants leads to conflict and struggle. However, the verse ends by highlighting a possible reason for this unfulfillment: the failure to ask God for what is needed. The deeper meanings here pertain to the moral and spiritual issues at play—excessive desire can lead to sin and violence, and not turning to God in prayer reflects a lack of dependence on and trust in Him for provision.

Historical Context

James 4:2 is part of a letter written by James, believed to be the brother of Jesus Christ. The letter is directed towards Jewish Christians scattered across various regions. The recipients of this epistle were facing various trials and conflicts, both internally and externally. During this time period, significant social stratification and economic disparity existed, and Christians often faced persecution and discrimination. Such conditions may have contributed to the struggles and conflicts James addresses. The verse serves as a critique of the behaviors that result from succumbing to worldly pressures and a reminder to remain faithful through humble reliance on God.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s providence and submitting one’s desires to Him through prayer. It reflects the Judeo-Christian belief in a God who is attentive to the needs of His followers. Some theologians might see this as an illustration of the principle that God desires to grant the petitions of His children but that these must be asked for in accordance with His will. Others may interpret this verse as highlighting the sinfulness of human nature, where desire leads individuals away from God, causing societal and personal discord.

Practical Applications

On a practical level, James 4:2 suggests a shift from pursuing selfish ambitions through harmful means to seeking fulfillment through spiritual communion with God. This shift involves praying for one’s needs instead of resorting to immoral actions. Applying this teaching today might mean examining one’s desires, ensuring they align with moral and ethical standards, and choosing to trust in and petition God rather than engaging in destructive behavior.

Cross-References

• Matthew 7:7: “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:”
• 1 Peter 2:1: “Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,”
• Proverbs 15:29: “The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous.”
• 1 Timothy 6:10: “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”

Language Study

The original language of the New Testament is Greek. Regarding key words from James 4:2:

• “Lust” translates from the Greek word “ἐπιθυμέω” (epithumeō), which means to desire or covet strongly, often leading to sinful actions.
• “Kill” comes from the Greek “φονεύω” (phoneuō) which can literally mean to murder or metaphorically to be consumed by envy or hateful desires.
• “Ask” is translated from “αἰτέω” (aiteō), meaning asking with urgency, implying a humble request.

These key terms underscore the intensity of the desires and actions being addressed and the clear direction toward seeking fulfillment through prayer and humility.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparing James 4:2 with other ancient cultural beliefs, one could look at Stoicism, which also emphasized controlling one’s desires to achieve a harmonious life. However, Stoicism did not place a divine being at the center of providing for human need as the Judeo-Christian tradition does.

In Buddhism, there is a similar disdain for excessive desire, known as “tanha” in Pali, which is viewed as the cause of suffering. While it takes a non-theistic approach, the emphasis on not being led by desire resonates with the teachings of James.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the idea of moderation and the negative effects of excessive desire could be supported by psychological research on the impacts of materialism and violence on human well-being. Desires that lead to negative actions, such as fighting or moral compromise, are consistent with psychological understandings of destructive behavior’s effects on individuals and society.

Commentaries

Expert commentators on the Bible often highlight the practical wisdom found in the book of James, and verse 4:2 is no exception. Matthew Henry’s commentary suggests that these expressions of desire without satisfaction, fighting, and conflict emerge from the wars and fights within, arising from our lusts. He posits that people often ask incorrectly or selfishly, which is why they don’t receive. Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary adds that the outward conflicts with others are the fruit of the inward conflict of desires unfulfilled. It further comments on the importance of not merely asking, but asking rightly—according to God’s will and in humility.