Introduction: James may have heard that Christians were seeking to escape from the blame for their sins. Some were even blaming God for their failures. The believer should know...

I. The Source Of Temptation

B. Temptations Come From Within Human Nature, v. 14. "Each person", a universal problem. "Tempted", sin appeals to the fallen nature of man.

C. Temptations Take Root In The Will Of Man, v.14. Satan is the Pied Piper of sin. He sets the hook of deception in the heart of desire. We have a choice.

II. The Course Of Temptation, v.15

A. Temptation Commences With A Conception, v.15. The word "conceived" (sullabousa) is a combination of "sun" (together) and "lambano" (to take). The seed of temptation joins with the unguarded heart to begin the process. Temptation is not sin. Giving it a sheltered place in our hearts and minds is.

B. Temptation Continues With A Birth, v.15. If man nourishes and encourages desire long enough, sin is born. Illustration: Eve in the Garden, Samson and Delilah, David and Bathsheba, Ahab and Naboth’s orchard .

C. Temptation Concludes With A Death, v.15. "Death" (thanaton) spiritual deterioration. When sin has run its course there is death of love, influence, joy, peace, and ultimately life itself.

A. Heed God’s Warning, v.16. The imperative indicates "stop being deceived".

B. Trust God’s Character, v.17. All kinds and degrees of good are from God. He is a good God who takes pleasure in blessing His children. There is no "shadow of turning", i.e., He is unchanging and will not turn (change directions) with regard to His goodness. He wants what is best for us.

C. Get In On God’s Purpose, v.18. God has a plan for your life. Sin brought death but God resolutely willed not to let us perish in our sins. His dear Son died in our place. He provides for us deliverance from sin’s penalty, sin’s power, and, ultimately, sin’s presence. "Greater is He that is within us than he that is within the world".