James 4:17
Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
Original Language Analysis
εἰδότι
to him that knoweth
G1492
εἰδότι
to him that knoweth
Strong's:
G1492
Word #:
1 of 10
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
οὖν
Therefore
G3767
οὖν
Therefore
Strong's:
G3767
Word #:
2 of 10
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
καλὸν
good
G2570
καλὸν
good
Strong's:
G2570
Word #:
3 of 10
properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished
ποιοῦντι
doeth
G4160
ποιοῦντι
doeth
Strong's:
G4160
Word #:
4 of 10
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
5 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
μὴ
it not
G3361
μὴ
it not
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
6 of 10
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
ποιοῦντι
doeth
G4160
ποιοῦντι
doeth
Strong's:
G4160
Word #:
7 of 10
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
Cross References
John 9:41Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.John 13:17If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.John 15:22If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for their sin.2 Peter 2:21For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them.Romans 1:32Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.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.
Historical Context
Diaspora merchants knew obligations to care for poor saints yet delayed. James reminds them that enlightened conscience demands action. Paul's collection efforts demonstrate similar accountability.
Questions for Reflection
- What good do you know you should be doing but are delaying?
- How can you ensure obedience follows conviction quickly?
- Who can help you follow through on Spirit-led initiatives?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin. To him who knows the good (kalon, καλόν) to do and does not do it, it is sin. Omission is culpable; knowledge increases responsibility.
Reformed ethics affirm sins of omission. James ties the planning discourse to obedience: ignoring known good, whether generosity or justice, is sin.