James 1:12-18 - Exposition

Return to the subject of temptation. James 1:2 taught that temptation regarded as an opportunity should be a cause for joy. James 1:12 teaches that the endurance of temptation brings a blessing from God, even the crown of life. Comp. Revelation 2:10 , the only other place in the New Testament where the "crown of life" is mentioned; and there also it stands in close connection with the endurance of temptation. Elsewhere we read of the "crown of righteousness" ( 2 Timothy 4:8 ), and the "crown of glory" ( 1 Peter 5:4 ). The genitive ( τὸν στέφανον τῆς ζωῆς ) is probably the gen. epex.," the crown, which is life." ὁ κύριος of the Received Text has but slight authority. It is wanting in A, B, א , ff, and is deleted by the Revisers, following all recent editors. Render, which he promised , etc. The subject is easily understood, and therefore, as frequently in Jewish writings ( e.g. 1 Maccabees), omitted from motives of reverence.