Living Out Our Responsibility to Do Good
Introduction
James 4:17 says, “So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin.” This short but powerful verse challenges us to think deeply about what it means to live out our faith. It reminds us that faith is not just about avoiding wrong actions but also about acting when we know what is right. In this post, we will explore the meaning of James 4:17, focusing on responsibility with knowledge, the importance of active faith, the concept of sins of omission, and our accountability before God. We’ll look at practical ways to apply this teaching and draw from related passages, such as the parable of the Good Samaritan and James 4:11-17.
Understanding James 4:17
James 4:17 is part of a larger message in the book of James, which calls Christians to genuine, lived-out faith. This verse highlights a specific kind of sin: not doing the good we know we should do. This is sometimes called a “sin of omission.” While we often think of sin as doing something wrong (sins of commission), James reminds us that failing to do what is right is just as serious. The context of James 4:11-17 warns against arrogance, judgment, and presumption, urging believers to submit to God and humbly do His will.
Responsibility with Knowledge
With knowledge comes responsibility. If we know what God wants from us and ignore it, we are held accountable. Jesus often emphasized that those who have been given much will be expected to do much (see Luke 12:47-48). When we are aware of someone in need, a chance to encourage, or an opportunity to serve, God expects us to act. Ignorance may excuse us, but knowledge brings accountability.
Faith in Action
The book of James insists that true faith produces action. Earlier in James 2:14-17, we read that faith without works is dead. Belief alone is not enough; it must be shown through love and good deeds. James 4:17 reinforces this by pointing out that knowing what is right is not sufficient—we must also do it. Active faith means stepping out, even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable, to help others and obey God’s leading.
Sins of Omission
A “sin of omission” is failing to do something good when you know you should. This is different from a “sin of commission,” which is actively doing something wrong. Both are serious in God’s eyes. For example, ignoring a friend who is hurting, neglecting to help the poor, or refusing to forgive someone are all ways we can fail to do good. Jesus’ teachings show that God cares not only about what we avoid but also about what we do—or fail to do—with the opportunities He gives us.
Accountability: Greater Knowledge, Greater Responsibility
James 4:17 teaches that we are accountable for what we know. God doesn’t expect us to do what we don’t understand, but He does expect us to respond to the truth we have received. This means that as we grow in faith and understanding, our responsibility to act increases. It’s a call to spiritual maturity and integrity—to let our actions match our beliefs.
Biblical Example: The Good Samaritan and Sins of Omission
The parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) is a classic example of how failing to do good is a serious issue. In the story, a man is beaten and left for dead. A priest and a Levite, both religious men, see him but pass by without helping. Their sin is not what they did, but what they failed to do. The Samaritan, an outsider, stops to help and shows true neighborly love. Jesus uses this story to show that our neighbor is anyone in need, and that knowing the right thing is not enough—we must do it.
Applying James 4:17
· Self-Reflection: Regularly examine your life. Ask, “Is there good I know I should do but am avoiding?”
· Acting on Convictions: When you sense God prompting you to help, encourage, or serve, don’t ignore it. Take the first step, even if it feels small.
· Following God’s Will: Seek to understand God’s will through prayer and Scripture. As you learn, put what you know into practice. Don’t let opportunities to do good pass you by.
· Community Accountability: Surround yourself with other believers who will encourage you to act on your faith and hold you accountable.
Related Commentary: James 4:11-17 and Other Perspectives
James 4:11-17 warns against judging others and making plans without considering God’s will. Verses 13-16 address those who boast about their future plans, forgetting that life is uncertain and that everything depends on God. Verse 17 then sums up the teaching: knowing the right thing and failing to do it is sin. This passage challenges us to live humbly, depend on God, and actively do good whenever we can. Other passages, like 1 John 3:17-18 (“let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth”) and Matthew 25:31-46 (the parable of the sheep and goats), also show that genuine love for God is demonstrated by caring for others.
Conclusion
James 4:17 is a call to active, living faith. It reminds us that avoiding wrong is not enough—God wants us to do good, especially when we know what that good is. As we grow in knowledge, our responsibility grows, but so does our opportunity to reflect Christ’s love in the world. Let’s be people who don’t just believe, but who also act—who see needs and respond, who know the good we ought to do and do it. In this way, our faith becomes real, vibrant, and pleasing to God.
Minister A Francine Green
October 2025
afrancinegreen.com 