Jealousy That Is Not According to Knowledge
Introduction and general content
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III defines incorrect jealousy and explains the difference between it and holy jealousy. He explains that some people feel a “religious” jealousy but its motives or means are wrong, or that it results from ignorance.
Origin of wrong jealousy
He clarifies that jealousy may err in its cause — arising from ignorance (like Saul the Tarsian before he became Paul when he persecuted the church thinking he was doing what is right) — or err in the means (resorting to violence or revenge, as Peter did or James and John requesting fire to come down from heaven).
Examples from the Holy Scripture
He cites attempts to persecute Paul, Peter’s reaction when he struck the ear of the high priest’s servant, James and John’s response toward Samaria, and also examples of the Jews, scribes, and Pharisees who thought they defended the law yet committed sins.
The nature of this jealousy from a spiritual perspective
The lecturer refers to the words of the Apostle James (James 3) to show that jealousy which leads to division, envy, and confusion is “earthly, sensual” and not from God, but may be demonic.
What kind of jealousy is acceptable?
The speaker distinguishes holy jealousy as originating from love of God and truth, not from personal interests or psychological conflicts, and is used by good and proper means for the glory of God. He mentions that he published a book titled “Holy Jealousy” for detailed explanation.
A call to reflection and scrutiny
He calls the audience to scrutinize the motives of jealousy: is it purely divine or a personal tendency, or the result of ignorance or rumor? He emphasizes the necessity that the means be good and proper if the jealousy is for God.
Spiritual conclusion
Jealousy is not bad in itself, but its value depends on cause, method, and purpose; true jealousy is for God and truth and produces unity and righteousness, while jealousy “not according to knowledge” leads to harm and an evil spirit.
Zeal
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