Notes from John MacArthur Study Bible
1:12 Blessed. See notes on Mt 5:4, 10, 11. Believers who successfully endure trials are truly happy (cf. 5:11). perseveres. See note on v. 3. In this context, it also describes the passive, painful survival of a trial and focuses on the victorious outcome. Such a person never relinquishes his saving faith in God; thus this concept is closely related to the doctrine of eternal security and perseverance of the believer (see note on Mt 24:13; cf. Jn 14:15, 23; 1Jn 2:5, 6, 15, 19; 4:19; 1Pe 1:6–8). trial. See note on v. 2. approved. Lit. “passed the test” (see note on v. 2, “trials”). The believer has successfully and victoriously gone through his trials, indicating he is genuine because his faith has endured like Job’s. crown of life. Best translated “the crown which is life.” “Crown” was the wreath put on the victor’s head after ancient Greek athletic events. Here, it denotes the believer’s ultimate reward, eternal life, which God has promised to him and will grant in full at death or at Christ’s coming (see notes on 2Ti 4:8; Rev 2:10; cf. 1Pe 5:4).
Living Waters 