Book of James - Chapter 4 - Verse 17

This verse emphasizes the importance of acting on one's knowledge of good. It suggests that simply knowing what is right is not enough; one must also actively do good in order to avoid sin. In other words, if someone is aware of the right thing to do but chooses not to do it, they are still committing a sin. This verse encourages believers to not only have knowledge of scripture and ethical principles but also to put them into practice in their everyday lives. It serves as a reminder that faith without action is incomplete, and that true righteousness is demonstrated through one's actions. By obeying God's commandments and living out the teachings of the Bible, believers can strive to live a life that is pleasing to Him and avoid falling into sin.

One theological interpretation of the verse "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin" emphasizes the idea of accountability and responsibility. This verse suggests that individuals have a moral obligation to act in accordance with what they know is right. By failing to do good when one is aware of what is good, they are held accountable for their inaction. This aligns with the broader theological concept of free will and the importance of making choices that align with God's will.

Additionally, a word study of this verse can provide further insight into its meaning. For example, the word "knoweth" can be interpreted as having a deep understanding or knowledge of what is good. This implies that ignorance is not an excuse for failing to do good. The word "sin" in this context refers to falling short of God's standards and failing to live in accordance with His will. Thus, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of acting conscientiously and in alignment with one's beliefs.