First pure
In this expression the apostle does not appear to speak of its effects; but rather of its nature: as St. James speaking of the same thing under another name, says, The wisdom from above (which is no other than this law, written on our heart) is first pure, (James 3:17), chaste, spotless, internally, and essentially holy. And consequently, when it is transcribed into the life, as well as the soul, it is (as the same apostle terms it,) (James 1:27). Pure religion and undefiled; or, the pure, clean, unpolluted worship of God.
1771 text
2. In this expression the apostle does not appear to speak of its effects; but rather of its nature: as St. James speaking of the same thing under another name, says, The wisdom from above (which is no other than this law, written on our heart) is first pure, chap. iii. 17. ἁγνὴ, chaste, spotless, internally, and essentially holy. And consequently, when it is transcribed into the life, as well as the soul, it is (as the same apostle terms it,) chap. i. 27. θρησκεία καθαρὰ καὶ ἀμίαντος. Pure religion and undefiled; or, the pure, clean, unpolluted worship of God.