Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.

JAMES 1:15KJV
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James 1:15 (KJV)

What does James 1:15 mean?

James 1:15 describes a process where desire, once it takes root, leads to sinful actions, and when those actions run their course, they ultimately result in death. The verse uses the imagery of conception and birth to show how sin develops from inward longing to outward consequences.

James, the brother of Jesus, is writing to early Christians scattered outside Jerusalem. He is warning them not to blame God for temptation, but to recognize how unchecked desires inside a person can grow into sinful choices, which then bring destructive results. The verse is part of a larger passage about the dangers of temptation and the importance of personal responsibility.

The Greek behind James 1:15

  • "lust" (ἐπιθυμία, epithymia): This word means more than just sexual desire; it refers to any strong craving or longing that pulls a person away from what is right. James is highlighting that temptation begins with something internal.
  • "conceived" (συλλαβοῦσα, syllabousa): The Greek word here is often used for becoming pregnant. James uses it metaphorically to show how desire, when it is "embraced," starts a chain reaction.
  • "finished" (ἀποτελεσθεῖσα, apotelestheisa): This word means something brought to completion or full maturity. Sin is pictured as growing and reaching its end, which is not just a single act, but a completed process.
  • "death" (θάνατος, thanatos): In this context, "death" is often understood as separation from God or spiritual ruin, not just physical death. James is stressing the seriousness of where unchecked sin leads.

Why James 1:15 matters

  • James 1:15 makes clear that temptation and sin are not sudden accidents, but a process that begins inside a person and grows if not confronted.
  • The verse corrects the misunderstanding that God causes people to sin; instead, it shows the responsibility lies with each person's own desires.
  • By using the imagery of conception and birth, James emphasizes how small, hidden desires can grow into major consequences if left unchecked, connecting to his wider teaching on living wisely and faithfully.

Where else these words appear

“forth” Greek G616 · used in 2 verses

  • James 1:18 Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

“Then” Greek G1534 · used in 15 verses

  • Mark 4:17 And have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a time: afterward, when affliction or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are offended.
  • John 13:5 After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.
  • 1 Corinthians 15:7 After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles.

“conceived” Greek G4815 · used in 16 verses

  • Matthew 26:55 In that same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid no hold on me.
  • Luke 2:21 And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
  • Acts 1:16 Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.

“forth” Greek G5088 · used in 18 verses

  • Matthew 1:21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
  • Luke 1:57 Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son.
  • Hebrews 6:7 For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God: