James 5:19
Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him;
Original Language Analysis
Ἀδελφοί
Brethren
G80
Ἀδελφοί
Brethren
Strong's:
G80
Word #:
1 of 13
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
ἐάν
if
G1437
ἐάν
if
Strong's:
G1437
Word #:
2 of 13
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
πλανηθῇ
do err
G4105
πλανηθῇ
do err
Strong's:
G4105
Word #:
6 of 13
to (properly, cause to) roam (from safety, truth, or virtue)
ἀπὸ
from
G575
ἀπὸ
from
Strong's:
G575
Word #:
7 of 13
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
10 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
Galatians 6:1Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.Matthew 18:15Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.James 5:20Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.Luke 22:32But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.Ezekiel 34:16I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment.Proverbs 19:27Cease, my son, to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge.2 Peter 3:17Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.Isaiah 3:12As for my people, children are their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people, they which lead thee cause thee to err, and destroy the way of thy paths.1 Timothy 6:10For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.Psalms 119:118Thou hast trodden down all them that err from thy statutes: for their deceit is falsehood.
Historical Context
False teaching and persecution led some to wander. James empowers ordinary believers—not just leaders—to engage in restorative ministry, aligning with Galatians 6:1.
Questions for Reflection
- Who in your circle may be drifting from truth?
- How can you lovingly pursue them?
- What community structures support restorative care?
Analysis & Commentary
Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; If anyone wanders from the truth and someone turns him back, restoration occurs. James calls the community to pursue straying believers.
Reformed ecclesiology stresses mutual care; church members are responsible for one another's perseverance.