Commentaries:
Robertson's Word Pictures (NT)
Bitter jealousy (zhlon pikron). Zhlov occurs in N.T. in good sense (John 2:17) and bad sense (Acts 5:17). Pride of knowledge is evil (I Corinthians 8:1) and leaves a bitter taste. See "root of bitterness" in Hebrews 12:14 (cf. Ephesians 4:31). This is a condition of the first class.
Faction (eriqian). Late word, from eriqov (hireling, from eriqeuw to spin wool), a pushing forward for personal ends, partisanship, as in Philippians 1:16.
In your heart (en th kardiai umwn). The real fountain (phgh, verse James 3:11).
Glory not (mh katakauxasqe). Present middle imperative of katakauxaomai, for which see James 2:13. Wisdom is essential for the teacher. Boasting arrogance disproves the possession of wisdom.
Lie not against the truth (yeudesqe kata thv alhqeiav). Present middle imperative of yeudomai, old verb, to play false, with mh carried over. Lying against the truth is futile. By your conduct do not belie the truth which you teach; a solemn and needed lesson. Cf. Romans 1:18 f., Romans 2:18, Romans 2:20.
Other Robertson's Word Pictures (NT) entries containing James 3:14:
James 2:13
James 3:1
James 3:11
James 5:19
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