John Calvin Commentary James 3:16

"For where jealousy and faction are, there is confusion and every vile deed." — James 3:16 (ASV)

For where envying is. It is an argument from what is contrary; for envying, by which hypocrites are influenced, produces effects contrary to wisdom. For wisdom requires a state of mind that is calm and composed, but envying disturbs it, so that in itself it becomes in a manner tumultuous, and boils up immoderately against others.

Some render ἀκαταστασία inconstancy, and sometimes it means this; but as it also signifies sedition and tumult, perturbation seems the most suitable to this passage. For James meant to express something more than levity; indeed, that the malignant and the slanderer does everything confusedly and rashly, as though he were beside himself; and hence he adds, every evil work.