Commentaries:
Robertson's Word Pictures (NT)
First pure (prwton men agnh). First in rank and time. agnov is from the same root as agiov (holy), old adjective, pure from fault, not half-good and half-bad, like that above.
Then peaceable (epeita eirhnikh). Old adjective from eirhnh (peace), loving peace here, bringing peace in Hebrews 12:11 (only N.T. examples). But clearly great as peace is, purity (righteousness) comes before peace and peace at any price is not worth the having. Hence Jesus spurned the devil's peace of surrender.
Gentle (epieikhv). Old adjective (from eikov, reasonable, fair), equitable (Philippians 4:5; I Peter 2:18). No English word renders it clearly.
Easy to be entreated (eupeiqhv). Old adjective (eu, peiqomai), compliant, approachable. Only here in N.T.
Mercy (eleouv). Practical help (James 2:13, James 2:16).
Good fruits (karpwn agaqwn). Kaloi karpoi in Matthew 7:17 f. Good deeds the fruit of righteousness (Philippians 1:11).
Without variance (adiakritov). Late verbal adjective (from alpha privative and diakrinw, to distinguish). "Unhesitating," not doubting (diakrinomenov) like the man in James 1:6. Here only in N.T. This wisdom does not put a premium on doubt.
Without hypocrisy (anupokritov). Late and rare verbal adjective (alpha privative and upokrinw). Not hypocritical, sincere, unfeigned (Romans 12:9).
Other Robertson's Word Pictures (NT) entries containing James 3:17:
John 8:23
Romans 1:8
Philippians 4:5
Hebrews 12:11
James 3:1
James 3:15
James 3:18
James 4:8
1 Peter 1:22
1 Peter 2:18
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