Verse 11
The speaking in view is speaking disparagingly of, or down on, another Christian. To criticize another one must conclude that he is right and the person he is criticizing is wrong. This is passing judgment. The law in view probably refers to God’s law generally in view of the context. We sin against God’s law when we criticize a brother because God has revealed that we should not speak against, or pass judgment on, our Christian brethren (cf. Leviticus 19:15-18; Matthew 7:1). We should submit to one another (e.g., Galatians 5:13; Ephesians 5:21; Philippians 2:3). Rather than taking a position of humility, such a person exalts himself to the role of judge (cf. James 4:10).
"We must be careful to note the far-reaching consequences of James’ teaching here: respect for law and order is necessary (as we are often told) for the health of modern society, but James goes on to remind us (James 4:12) that, since God is the source of all law, what is ultimately at stake in a ’permissive society’ is respect for the authority of God himself." [Note: Adamson, p. 177.]
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