James 1:14

KJV

But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} every man {G1538} is tempted {G3985}, when he is drawn away {G1828} of {G5259} his own {G2398} lust {G1939}, and {G2532} enticed {G1185}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Rather, each person is being tempted whenever he is being dragged off and enticed by the bait of his own desire.

Berean Standard Bible

But each one is tempted when by his own evil desires he is lured away and enticed.

American Standard Version

but each man is tempted, when he is drawn away by his own lust, and enticed.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
James 1:14 offers a profound and sobering explanation for the origin of temptation, asserting that it does not stem from God but from within the individual's own fallen nature. The verse meticulously describes a two-stage process: first, a person is "drawn away" by their inherent, often illicit, desires, and then they are "enticed" by the deceptive allure of sin, much like a fish lured by bait. This passage underscores personal responsibility in the face of moral failure, highlighting the internal battle against unholy cravings as the true source of succumbing to evil.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** James 1:14 stands as a crucial pivot in James's opening discourse on trials and wisdom. Having exhorted believers to embrace trials with joy, knowing they produce steadfastness ([James 1:2-4](/james/1-2-4 "James 1:2-4 - The Purpose of Trials")), and to seek wisdom from God for navigating these challenges ([James 1:5-8](/james/1-5-8 "James 1:5-8 - Asking for Wisdom")), James then directly addresses the source of temptation and sin. Immediately preceding this verse, [James 1:13](/james/1-13 "James 1:13 - God Does Not Tempt") emphatically declares that God never tempts anyone to do evil. Verse 14, therefore, serves as the logical follow-up, explaining *how* temptation arises if not from God, thereby shifting the focus squarely onto human culpability. This verse also sets the stage for the grim progression of sin and its ultimate consequence—death—described in [James 1:15](/james/1-15 "James 1:15 - The Progression of Sin"), forming a tightly knit theological argument about the nature and origin of sin.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Epistle of James is addressed to Jewish Christians dispersed among the nations, likely in the broader Hellenistic world. This audience would have been familiar with both Old Testament wisdom traditions and common Greco-Roman philosophical discussions about human nature and the source of evil. While some ancient philosophies might have attributed evil to external forces or even divine malevolence, James firmly grounds temptation's origin within the individual, aligning with a robust biblical anthropology that recognizes humanity's fallen state. The vivid imagery of "drawn away" and "enticed" likely draws from common experiences in an agrarian and fishing society, making the abstract concept of temptation tangible and relatable to his readers. The emphasis on "lust" (epithymia) also resonates with broader moral teachings prevalent in both Jewish and early Christian communities, which often warned against uncontrolled desires.
* **Key Themes:** James 1:14 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the epistle and broader biblical theology. Foremost is the **Internal Origin of Temptation and Sin**, challenging any notion that God is responsible for human moral failure. It firmly places the onus on the individual's **Personal Responsibility** for their choices, emphasizing that the battle against sin is primarily an internal one, fought within the heart and mind. The verse also highlights the **Deceptive and Progressive Nature of Sin**, illustrating how an initial internal desire can subtly "draw away" and then "entice" a person into full-blown transgression. This understanding is crucial for the epistle's practical call to live out a genuine faith that is not merely intellectual but actively resists evil, as seen in James's later exhortations to resist the devil ([James 4:7](/james/4-7 "James 4:7 - Submit to God, Resist the Devil")) and purify one's heart ([James 4:8](/james/4-8 "James 4:8 - Draw Near to God")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **tempted (Greek, _peirázō'_):** From the Strong's data, this word means "to test (objectively), i.e. endeavor, scrutinize, entice, discipline." In this context, it refers to the process by which a person is put to the test, but with the specific nuance of being enticed towards sin. It implies an internal or external solicitation to evil, which, unlike God's testing (which aims to refine), seeks to lead one astray.
* **drawn away (Greek, _exélkō'_):** Derived from "ek" (out of) and "helkō" (to drag), this term means "to drag forth, i.e. (figuratively) to entice (to sin)." It vividly portrays the initial, subtle, yet powerful pull of one's desires, like a fish being dragged out of its safe environment by a fishing line. This signifies an internal inclination that pulls the individual away from righteousness and towards the object of their illicit desire.
* **lust (Greek, _epithymía'_):** This word is defined as "a longing (especially for what is forbidden); concupiscence, desire, lust (after)." While _epithymía_ can denote any strong desire, whether good or bad, in this context, it unequivocally refers to an inordinate, often illicit, craving or passion. It is the internal, ungodly desire that serves as the fertile ground for temptation to take root and flourish.
* **enticed (Greek, _deleázō'_):** From the Strong's data, this means "to entrap, i.e. (figuratively) delude; allure, beguile, entice." This term specifically refers to the act of baiting a hook or trap. It highlights the deceptive nature of temptation, where the "bait" (the perceived pleasure or gain from sin) conceals the "hook" (the destructive consequences). This is the second stage of the process, where the initial "drawing away" leads to a deliberate engagement with the alluring object of desire.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But every man is tempted,"**: This opening clause serves as a direct contrast to the preceding verse, "Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God" ([James 1:13](/james/1-13 "James 1:13 - God Does Not Tempt")). The "But" (G1161, _dé_) introduces a clarification, shifting the focus from God's non-involvement to humanity's universal experience. "Every man" emphasizes that this process is common to all individuals, regardless of their spiritual maturity or external circumstances, highlighting the pervasive nature of the struggle with temptation.
* **"when he is drawn away of his own lust,"**: This phrase identifies the internal source and the initial stage of temptation. The individual is not merely a passive recipient of temptation but is actively "drawn away" (G1828, _exélkō_) from the path of righteousness. The critical element here is "of his own lust" (G2398 _ídios_ G1939 _epithymía_), unequivocally placing the origin of this internal pull within the person's own desires. It is not an external force or a divine instigation, but the unholy cravings and inclinations inherent in the fallen human heart that initiate the process.
* **"and enticed."**: This marks the second, subsequent stage in the progression of temptation. After being "drawn away" by internal lust, the individual is then "enticed" (G1185, _deleázō_). This imagery, often associated with baiting a hook for a fish, speaks to the deceptive and alluring nature of sin. The "lust" provides the internal vulnerability, and the "enticement" is the external or internal presentation of the bait that appeals to that vulnerability, leading the individual further down the path toward actual sin.

#### Literary Devices
James 1:14 masterfully employs **Imagery** and **Metaphor** to convey the insidious process of temptation. The Greek terms _exélkō_ ("drawn away") and _deleázō_ ("enticed") both evoke vivid pictures from the ancient world of fishing or hunting. _Exélkō_ suggests being "dragged out" or "lured away," much like a fish is pulled from its natural habitat by a line. This highlights the subtle, often imperceptible, yet powerful pull of internal desires that draws a person away from their moral moorings. _Deleázō_ then completes the metaphor, referring to the act of "baiting a hook" or "setting a trap." This illustrates the deceptive nature of temptation, where the allure of sin (the bait) conceals the destructive consequences (the hook). This **Personification** of "lust" as an active agent that "draws away" and "entices" further emphasizes its internal power. The verse also functions as **Didacticism**, providing clear instruction on the mechanics of temptation, thereby empowering the reader to understand and resist its progression.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
James 1:14 offers a profound theological insight into the nature of sin and human responsibility, aligning perfectly with the broader biblical narrative of humanity's fall and subsequent moral struggle. It unequivocally affirms that sin originates not from God, but from within the human heart, specifically from "one's own lust." This resonates with Jesus' teaching that defilement comes from what proceeds out of the heart, not from external sources. The verse highlights the internal battle that every individual faces, where inherent sinful desires, left unchecked, create a vulnerability that the deceptive allure of temptation exploits. Understanding this internal origin is crucial for genuine spiritual growth, as it shifts the focus from blaming external circumstances or even God, to taking personal responsibility for one's thoughts, desires, and actions. It underscores the ongoing need for spiritual vigilance and reliance on divine grace to purify the heart and resist the insidious progression from desire to sin.

* [Mark 7:20-23](/mark/7-20-23 "Mark 7:20-23 - What Defiles a Person")
* [Romans 7:15-20](/romans/7-15-20 "Romans 7:15-20 - The Struggle with Sin")
* [1 John 2:16](/1_john/2-16 "1 John 2:16 - The Lust of the Flesh, Eyes, and Pride of Life")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
James 1:14 serves as a powerful call to radical self-awareness and personal accountability in our spiritual walk. By clearly articulating that temptation originates from "our own lust," the verse strips away any excuses and places the responsibility squarely on our shoulders. This understanding empowers us, for if the source is internal, then the battle can be fought and won within. It compels us to honestly examine our hearts, identifying those specific "lusts" or uncontrolled desires—whether for power, pleasure, possessions, approval, or anything else that competes with God—which serve as our personal vulnerabilities. The imagery of being "drawn away" and "enticed" highlights the subtle, progressive nature of temptation, urging us to recognize and resist the initial pull before it escalates into full-blown sin. This requires vigilance, self-control, and a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit to transform our desires, aligning them with God's will. Ultimately, this verse challenges us to cultivate a disciplined inner life, guarding our hearts with all diligence, knowing that from them flow the springs of life.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific "lusts" or uncontrolled desires in my own heart do I recognize as potential sources of temptation?**
* **How can I become more aware of the subtle ways I am "drawn away" by these desires before they lead to enticement?**
* **What practical steps can I take to "starve" my sinful desires and "feed" my desire for God and righteousness?**
* **How does understanding the internal origin of temptation change my approach to resisting sin and taking personal responsibility?**

### FAQ
**Does James 1:14 imply that God has no role in our temptation?**

Answer: James 1:14, especially in light of [James 1:13](/james/1-13 "James 1:13 - God Does Not Tempt"), makes it unequivocally clear that God is not the source or instigator of evil temptation. God "tempts" or "tests" us, but His tests are always for our good, to refine our faith and character (e.g., [Genesis 22:1](/genesis/22-1 "Genesis 22:1 - God Tests Abraham")). He never entices us to sin. James 1:14 specifically states that a person is tempted "when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed," firmly placing the origin of sinful temptation within the individual's own fallen desires.

**What does "lust" mean in this context? Is it only about sexual desire?**

Answer: While "lust" in modern English often carries a strong sexual connotation, the Greek word _epithymía_ (G1939) used here is broader. As the Strong's data indicates, it means "a longing (especially for what is forbidden); concupiscence, desire, lust (after)." In the biblical context, _epithymía_ refers to any strong, often inordinate or illicit, desire or craving that goes against God's will. This can include greed, covetousness, envy, anger, pride, or any other ungodly passion, not just sexual desire. It represents the internal inclination towards sin that makes one vulnerable to temptation.

**How does James 1:14 relate to the next verse, James 1:15?**

Answer: James 1:14 and [James 1:15](/james/1-15 "James 1:15 - The Progression of Sin") describe a clear, four-stage progression of sin. Verse 14 outlines the first two stages: a person is "drawn away" by their own internal "lust" (desire), and then "enticed" (lured by the bait of sin). Verse 15 then completes the progression: "Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death." So, lust conceives (takes hold), brings forth sin (the act of transgression), and sin, when fully developed, results in death (spiritual separation from God, and ultimately, eternal death). The two verses together provide a comprehensive understanding of how temptation, left unchecked, leads to destruction.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
James 1:14, by exposing the internal origin of temptation, profoundly highlights the unique and perfect sinlessness of Jesus Christ. Unlike "every man" who is "drawn away of his own lust, and enticed," Jesus, though fully human, was without sin, having no inherent "lust" or corrupt desire to be drawn away. His temptation in the wilderness, as recorded in [Matthew 4:1-11](/matthew/4-1-11 "Matthew 4:1-11 - The Temptation of Jesus"), demonstrates that while He was tempted externally, He never yielded because there was no internal corruption for Satan's enticements to latch onto. He perfectly resisted the allure of power, pleasure, and pride, demonstrating what it means to live a life fully submitted to God's Word. Furthermore, Christ's victory over sin and death on the cross provides the ultimate solution to the problem of our indwelling "lust." Through His sacrifice, believers are given a new nature and the indwelling Holy Spirit, who empowers us to "walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh" ([Galatians 5:16](/galatians/5-16 "Galatians 5:16 - Walking by the Spirit")). Thus, while James 1:14 exposes our vulnerability, Christ offers the power to overcome, enabling us to put to death the deeds of the body by the Spirit ([Romans 8:13](/romans/8-13 "Romans 8:13 - Living by the Spirit")) and live a life increasingly free from the dominion of sin, reflecting the very character of our sinless Savior, who is able to sympathize with our weaknesses, having been tempted in every respect as we are, yet without sin ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our Sympathetic High Priest")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Mark 7:21

For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders,

Mark 7:22

Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness:

Ephesians 4:22

That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;

Matthew 15:18

But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.

Hebrews 3:13

But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

Romans 7:13

Was 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.

Proverbs 4:23

Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it [are] the issues of life.