James 1:16
Do not err, my beloved brethren.
Original Language Analysis
Μὴ
not
G3361
Μὴ
not
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
1 of 5
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
πλανᾶσθε
Do
G4105
πλανᾶσθε
Do
Strong's:
G4105
Word #:
2 of 5
to (properly, cause to) roam (from safety, truth, or virtue)
Cross References
James 1:19Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:Galatians 6:7Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.Philippians 2:12Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.Colossians 2:8Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.Hebrews 13:1Let brotherly love continue.Colossians 2:4And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words.Mark 12:24And Jesus answering said unto them, Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God?Mark 12:27He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living: ye therefore do greatly err.1 Corinthians 6:9Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,Matthew 22:29Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.
Historical Context
Diaspora believers heard competing narratives: pagan fatalism, Jewish legalism, and emerging proto-gnostic dualism. James, writing early (AD 45-50), guards the flock from errors that would later erupt in heresies. He echoes Paul's concern in Galatians over believers being "bewitched" by false teaching.
The admonition would have rung loudly in house churches where rumors spread quickly; James pastors them through letter, urging doctrinal vigilance that preserves joyful obedience.
Questions for Reflection
- What unbiblical assumptions about God surface when you suffer?
- How does rehearsing orthodox doctrine protect your obedience?
- Which passages will you memorize to combat theological drift?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Do not err, my beloved brethren. James pleads, "Do not err" (planasthe, πλανᾶσθε)—do not be led astray regarding God's character. The imperative warns against theological drift that attributes evil to God or treats Him as stingy. Remembering God's goodness anchors the soul amid trials.
The reformed emphasis on God's immutability and benevolence fuels perseverance: theology matters for endurance. False views of God breed resentment, but right doctrine fuels worship and obedience. James transitions from the danger of sinful desire to the certainty of God's generosity.