§ 1 The text
NASB
James 4:17, NASBTherefore, to one who knows the right thing to do and does not do it, to him it is sin.
The claim this verse counters
“Incrementalism is merely a different strategy, not a sin.”
§ 2 The argument
Sin includes not only doing wrong but failing to do the known right. If one knows justice should be established for the unborn now and instead pursues a policy that leaves them unprotected, that knowing omission is, by James's definition, sin.
§ 3 Context & notes
Supplement supporting the talk's thesis that pro-life incrementalism is sin (not just suboptimal strategy). Pairs with Romans 14:23 ('whatever is not from faith is sin') and Proverbs 29:25 ('the fear of man brings a snare').
§ 4 Themes
sins of omission knowing the right incrementalism as sin responsibility
§ 5 Discussion questions
- If someone knows justice for the unborn is right, does declining to pursue it fall under James 4:17?
- How does 'sins of omission' reframe the claim that incrementalism is 'just strategy'?
§ 6 Related
Editorial note
Verse text is quoted from the NASB. Scripture quotations taken from the New American Standard Bible® (NASB), Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. lockman.org