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James 4:12

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

There's only one person who gets to make the rules and decide what happens to people, the one who can save lives or end them. So who do you think you are, judging someone else?

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

Only God gets to be the judge, so maybe focus on yourself instead of critiquing everyone else.

📚 Historical Context

The book of James was written by James, the brother of Jesus, to Jewish Christians scattered across the ancient world who were dealing with trials, temptations, and internal conflicts. In the context of James 4, the author confronts issues like quarrels and divisions caused by selfish desires and pride, calling believers to humble themselves before God. This verse serves as a direct rebuke against judging others, emphasizing that only God, as the sole lawgiver, has the authority to determine salvation or destruction.

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