ISB ~ James 1 v18

word of truth:The gospel of new life in Christ (Eph 1:13; 1 Pet 1:23-25).

first fruits:James compares believers of the first generation (1:1) to the first sheaf of spring wheat that was cut from the field and offered to God in the Temple (Lev 23:9-11). This first portion was meant to thank the Lord for his gifts and to seek his blessing for an abundant harvest. Paul uses this image for Israelite believers (Rom 11:16).