James 4:11
Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.
James 4:11 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse reminds believers of the importance of not speaking ill of one another. When a person speaks evil of their brother or sister in Christ, they are not only disrespecting that individual but also the law of God. By passing judgment on others, one is essentially setting themselves above the law and acting as a judge. This behavior is not in line with the teachings of Christianity, as we are called to love and support one another rather than tear each other down. Instead of criticizing and condemning others, we should strive to be doers of the law by treating others with kindness, respect, and understanding. This verse serves as a reminder to hold ourselves accountable to the same standards that we expect from others, and to approach disagreements with a spirit of humility and grace.
Theological Overview
The theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of refraining from speaking ill of others and judging them. It warns believers against criticizing and condemning their brothers and sisters, as it is tantamount to speaking evil of the law itself. By judging others, we place ourselves in a position above the law, effectively becoming judges instead of humble doers of the law. This verse highlights the need for compassion, understanding, and a spirit of love among believers. It serves as a reminder to maintain a non-judgmental attitude towards others, remembering that we are all equally subject to the law and in need of grace and forgiveness. In essence, this verse encourages a spirit of unity, peace, and respect within the Christian community, grounded in the principles of love and humility.
James 4:11 in other translations
American Standard Version
Speak not one against another, brethren. He that speaketh against a brother, or judgeth his brother, speaketh against the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judgest the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.
World English Bible
Don’t speak against one another, brothers. He who speaks against a brother and judges his brother, speaks against the law and judges the law. But if you judge the law, you are not a doer of the law, but a judge.
Douay-Rheims
Detract not one another, my brethren. He that detracteth his brother, or he that judgeth his brother, detracteth the law and judgeth the law. But if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Speake not euill one of another, brethren. He that speaketh euill of his brother, or he that condemneth his brother, speaketh euill of ye Law, and condemneth the Lawe: and if thou condemnest the Lawe, thou art not an obseruer of the Lawe, but a iudge.