King James Bible
"Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls."
James calls believers to actively strip away moral impurity and the overflow of wickedness that hinders spiritual growth. The Greek term for 'superfluity' suggests an abundance or excess, indicating that even residual evil must be removed to prepare the heart for God's truth. The 'engrafted' or implanted word refers to the gospel message that has been planted within believers like a seed in soil. Meekness here means a teachable, humble posture that allows God's word to take root deeply rather than merely hearing it superficially. James emphasizes the word's transformative power—not just for initial conversion but for ongoing deliverance from sin's destruction. This salvation encompasses the whole person, pointing to the word's ability to preserve and perfect those who embrace it.