The responsibility and effect of sin have been questioned by mankind from the beginning of time. As many have noted, Adam blamed God for causing him to sin and his descendants have perpetuated his error ever since (Genesis 3:12). In James 1:13-18, the inspired author commanded Christians not to err in this fashion (James 1:16). Instead, they should consider the true lineage of temptation and sin, which does not and cannot include God.
James first identified who was not the father of temptation with these words, “Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God” (James 1:13a). The word “tempted” here is not an outward test (James 1:2) but an inward compulsion to do what is sinful. James commanded the “brethren” (James 1:2, 16) not to claim that God was the source of their temptation. James’ reasoning is simplistic and effective. Brethren should not claim that God is the source of temptation for one very important reason, “God cannot be tempted with evil” (James 1:13b). The implication seems to be that since God is not vulnerable to the desire to perform sin, He does not yearn to see mankind tempted with sin (James 1:13c).
James identified the father of temptation with the use of these words, “every man” and “his own” (James 1:14). The source of temptation to do evil is not God; rather, the responsibility falls squarely upon the individual. Interestingly, James does not implicate Satan who is regarded as the ultimate source of temptation throughout Scripture (James 4:7; 1 Peter 4:8; 2 Corinthians 2:11). Instead, he holds Christians personally responsible for their “own lusts.” Temptation occurs when one is “drawn away” and “enticed” to do something contrary to God’s Word. The word “drawn way” consists of two words, which mean “out of” and “to draw.” When combined literally they mean “to draw out of.” Much like an animal that is drawn out of its den, a place of security and rest to seek the pleasures of a full stomach, mankind is drawn out to fulfill an unlawful desire (“lust”). The word “enticed” could also be translated “lured” and is often used of false teachers who lure away their subjects with lies (2 Peter 2:14, 18). When one is drawn out by lust and baited, their will to do right is tested. If they manage to escape, sin has not occurred (1 Corinthians 10:13). However, if they fail, an unsightly result necessarily follows.
James warned the brethren of the results of lust and enticement’s unwarranted union, “Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin” (James 1:15a). The word “conceive” means “to become pregnant,” and James uses it to demonstrate that the mingling of lust and enticement is not without consequence. When a Christian’s will to do what is right surrenders to temptation, then an illegitimate child is born—named “sin.” Though everyone sins (1 John 1:8, 10) such an acknowledgment should not be an excuse for unrestrained desires. When sin is brought to completion (“finished”), it gives birth to spiritual death (Romans 6:23; 1 Timothy 5:6).
Thankfully, over two thousand years ago, a birth of a different kind took place—the birth of One named Jesus “who is called Christ” (Matthew 1:16). He is the Messiah of the entire world (1 Timothy 2:4), sent to seek and to save those who are lost due to spiritual death caused by sin (Luke 19:10).
