JMNT(i)
16 Do not be repeatedly caused to wander (or: Be not continuously deceived),
my beloved brothers (= family members; = fellow believers)!
17 Every good leaving of a legacy, profitable contributing or excellent dosing, as well as all virtuous giving, and (or: All giving [is] beneficial, and yet),
every perfect gift (finished, complete or mature result of giving)
is from above, descending from the Father of the lights, beside Whom there is no otherness at [
His]
side (or: in the presence of Whom is no parallel otherness; [other MSS: along with Whom {is} not one interchange, variation, shifting or mutation]),
nor a shadow cast by turning [other MSS: an effect caused by the passing of shadows].
18 Being purposed (intended; willed),
from pregnancy He brought us forth by a Word (collected thought; message)
of Truth and Reality – [
placed]
into us – to be (or: to continuously exist being)
a specific firstfruit of His created beings (or: of the effects of His act of creating; or: from the results of the creation which is Himself).
19 You folks have seen and are aware, so understand, perceive and know [
this]
, my beloved brothers. So every person must continuously be quick (swift)
into the [
position or place]
to listen and hear, slow into the [
readiness]
to make vocal utterance, [and]
slow into intrinsic fervor (internal swelling of passion; teeming desire; or: agitation; anger; or: a particular mental bent).