Of] The Apostle having taught, vers. 17. that every good gift came from God, exemplifies this here in the great work of mans regeneration. will] That is, out of his good pleasure, and not for any merit in man. See Romans 9:11. Ephesians 1:9. Philippians 2:15. 2 Timothy 1:9. John 1:13. with the word] Or, by. Ephesians 1:13. Colossians 2:5. See Romans 10:14. 1 Peter 1:23. a kind of first-fruits] Herein S. James alludes unto the first-fruits under the law, which were certain handfuls of the first ripe corn, and so consequently of the best, which they were to offer unto God. See Levit. 23. 10, 11. Numbers 15:20-21. Hence first-fruits sometimes import the first in order. So it is said the house of Stephanus was the first-fruits of Achaia: first called into the fellowship of the Gospel, 1 Corinthians 16:15. And so some understand this place, viz. of the Apostles and the Jews which were first regenerate. Sometimes again the best and chiefest. So Jeremiah 2:3. And thus most understand this place; interpreting it of all the faithfull, who are called the first-fruits, because of their dignitie and excellencie above all men; being separated out of the world, Ephesians 1:4. 1 Peter 2:9. and consecrated to God. creatures] Of men. So Mark 16:15.