I. Definition
of anger.
A. The word
in James 1:19 that is translated "wrath" by the KJV is "orge"
(orghn).
Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon
defines this as indignation which has risen gradually and become more
settled, as opposed to "thumos"
(qumos)
a sudden
outburst that soon goes away (p. 293).
B. Vine’s
Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words describes wrath as being
frequently accompanied by the desire or intent to seek revenge.
C. The word
"wrath" is closely associated with the word "anger".
Certain translations other than the KJV translate James 1:19,
"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow
to speak, slow to anger".
D. There is
a distinction that must be made between God’s (and Christ’s) anger and
our anger. God’s anger is always a justifiable response to evil – Romans
1:8-2:11.
E. Man’s
anger, however, is not without fault. Man’s anger is often misdirected or
without proper basis.
II. Danger of
anger.
A. Causes
strife with others – Proverbs 15:18, Proverbs 29:22, Proverbs 30:33.
B. Causes
discord within the church – II Corinthians 12:20.
C. One of
the works of the flesh – Galatians 5:19.
D. Hinders
our prayers – I Timothy 2:8.
E. Can lead
to harmful acts to others - Genesis 4:5-8.
III. Dealing
with anger.
A. Realize
its seriousness – Ephesians 4:31, Colossians 3:8.
B. Realize
the foolishness of anger – Ecclesiastes 7:9.
C. Remember
it is not our place to retaliate – Psalms 37:8, Romans 12:17-21.
D. Choose
your friends wisely – Proverbs 22:24-25.
E. Don’t
become upset by trivial matters – Proverbs 19:11.
