James 1:14
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
Original Language Analysis
πειράζεται
is tempted
G3985
πειράζεται
is tempted
Strong's:
G3985
Word #:
3 of 10
to test (objectively), i.e., endeavor, scrutinize, entice, discipline
ὑπὸ
of
G5259
ὑπὸ
of
Strong's:
G5259
Word #:
4 of 10
under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἰδίας
his own
G2398
ἰδίας
his own
Strong's:
G2398
Word #:
6 of 10
pertaining to self, i.e., one's own; by implication, private or separate
ἐξελκόμενος
when he is drawn away
G1828
ἐξελκόμενος
when he is drawn away
Strong's:
G1828
Word #:
8 of 10
to drag forth, i.e., (figuratively) to entice (to sin)
Cross References
Ephesians 4:22That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;Matthew 15:18But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.Hebrews 3:13But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.Isaiah 44:20He feedeth on ashes: a deceived heart hath turned him aside, that he cannot deliver his soul, nor say, Is there not a lie in my right hand?Romans 7:13Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful.Job 31:9If mine heart have been deceived by a woman, or if I have laid wait at my neighbour's door;Proverbs 4:23Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.Matthew 5:28But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.Job 31:27And my heart hath been secretly enticed, or my mouth hath kissed my hand:Romans 7:11For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me.
Historical Context
Diaspora Christians surrounded by pagan festivals, economic pressures, and sexual immorality needed clarity on the source of temptation. James echoes Jesus' teaching that defilement proceeds from the heart (Mark 7). Paul's letters similarly warn believers to put to death earthly passions (Colossians 3:5).
Understanding temptation as an internal battle empowered believers to resist cultural harassment without blaming circumstances.
Questions for Reflection
- What desires most often lure you away from obedience?
- How can meditation on Christ's sufficiency weaken those cravings?
- What boundaries or habits will you implement to avoid baited traps?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Each person is tempted when drawn away (exelkomenos, ἐξελκόμενος) and enticed (deleazomenos, δελεαζόμενος) by his own desire (epithymia, ἐπιθυμία). James uses fishing and hunting imagery—bait lures prey outward. The battlefield is internal; sinful cravings hook the heart before external sin occurs.
This anthropology matches Reformed teaching on total depravity: temptation exploits disordered desires, not merely external pressures. Sanctification therefore involves mortifying sinful appetites and cultivating holy affections through the gospel.