Why Ignoring Good Deeds Is More Serious Than We Think
What Does James 4:17 Mean?
The verse, “If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them” (James 4:17), might sound simple, but it packs a powerful message for everyday life. In plain terms, it means that if you know the right thing to do and you choose not to do it, you’re doing something wrong. It’s not just about avoiding bad actions; it’s about actively doing good when you have the chance.
Why Is This Important?
Most of us think of sin as doing something obviously bad — lying, stealing, or hurting others. But James 4:17 points out that it’s also a problem when we fail to do what’s right. This idea is called a “sin of omission.” It reminds us that simply avoiding bad deeds isn’t enough. We have a responsibility to act when we know what should be done.
Knowledge Brings Responsibility
This verse highlights that the more we understand about what is good and right, the more responsible we are for our actions. If you see someone in need and you know you could help, ignoring them isn’t just a missed opportunity — it’s considered wrong. In other words, with greater knowledge of what’s right comes a greater obligation to actually do it.
Your Conscience Matters
Our conscience — that inner voice that tells us what’s right or wrong — plays a big role here. When we know better, we are expected to do better. God (or our sense of right and wrong, for those less religious) holds us accountable for the good we leave undone, not just the bad we avoid. We’re judged not only by what we do, but also by what we choose not to do when we know better.
Everyday Example: The Good Samaritan
Think of the story of the Good Samaritan. In this parable, a man is injured on the side of the road. Both a priest and a Levite see him but walk past, even though they know they should help. Only the Samaritan stops to do the right thing. The lesson? It’s not enough to know what’s right — you have to act on it. The people who passed by weren’t just neutral; their failure to help was a sin because they knew better.
For instance, if you are aware that lying is wrong and yet you choose to lie, it is considered a sin—an act that goes against God’s divine law, a moral code, or an ideal standard. Our lives are fleeting, like a mist that appears briefly and then vanishes; yet, our choices echo beyond our brief moment under the sun. Each action, whether in line with truth or in defiance of it, carries weight in the eyes of eternity.
What Can We Learn?
· Don’t just avoid doing bad things; look for ways to do good.
· If you know someone needs help, step in when you can.
· Listen to your conscience. If you feel nudged to do the right thing, don’t ignore it.
· Remember: Responsibility grows with knowledge. The more you know, the more is expected of you.
Bringing It All Together
James 4:17 challenges us to think bigger about right and wrong. It’s not just about avoiding harm but also about actively doing good when we’re able. When we know the right thing to do, let’s not put it off. Even the small, good deeds — a kind word, lending a hand, speaking up for someone — matter. Not doing them isn’t just a missed chance; it’s something we’re called to take seriously.
Minister A Francine Green
October 2025
afrancinegreen.com 