James 5:19
My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back,
My brothers
This phrase indicates a familial relationship among believers, emphasizing the unity and love that should exist within the Christian community. The Greek word "ἀδελφοί" (adelphoi) is often used in the New Testament to refer to fellow believers, both men and women, highlighting the spiritual kinship that transcends biological ties. Historically, the early church viewed itself as a family, bound together by faith in Christ, and this term reinforces the responsibility members have for one another.

if one of you
This phrase suggests the possibility of any believer straying from the path of righteousness. The Greek "ἐάν" (ean) introduces a conditional clause, indicating that wandering from the truth is a potential risk for all Christians. This serves as a reminder of the human propensity to err and the need for vigilance in maintaining one's faith.

should wander
The Greek word "πλανηθῇ" (planēthē) is used here, which means to go astray or to be led into error. This term is often associated with being misled or deceived, suggesting that wandering from the truth can be both an intentional and unintentional act. In the historical context of the early church, false teachings and external pressures could easily lead believers astray, making this warning particularly relevant.

from the truth
"Truth" in this context refers to the core doctrines and ethical teachings of Christianity. The Greek word "ἀληθείας" (alētheias) encompasses both the truth of the Gospel and the moral truth that should guide a believer's life. In a broader scriptural context, truth is often personified in Jesus Christ, who declared Himself to be "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). Thus, wandering from the truth implies a departure from Christ Himself and His teachings.

and someone
This phrase introduces the role of another believer in the restoration process. The Greek "τις" (tis) is an indefinite pronoun, indicating that any member of the Christian community can take on this responsibility. This reflects the communal nature of the faith, where each believer is called to care for and support one another.

should bring him back
The Greek word "ἐπιστρέψῃ" (epistrepsē) means to turn back or to restore. This term is often used in the New Testament to describe repentance and conversion, suggesting a return to the right path. The act of bringing someone back is not merely a correction of behavior but a spiritual restoration to the truth of the Gospel. Historically, this reflects the early church's emphasis on repentance and reconciliation, underscoring the importance of restoring those who have strayed.

Persons / Places / Events
1. James
The author of the epistle, traditionally understood to be James, the brother of Jesus and a leader in the early Jerusalem church. He writes with authority and pastoral concern for the believers.

2. Brothers
Refers to fellow believers in the Christian community. James uses this term to address the recipients of his letter, emphasizing their shared faith and familial bond in Christ.

3. Wander from the truth
This phrase describes a believer who strays from the teachings and practices of the Christian faith. The Greek word for "wander" (plan?th?) suggests a deviation or error in belief or conduct.

4. Someone
This refers to any member of the Christian community who takes the initiative to restore a fellow believer who has strayed. It highlights the communal responsibility of believers to care for one another.

5. Bring him back
The act of restoring a believer to the truth. The Greek word used here (epistreps?) implies a turning back or conversion, indicating a return to correct belief and practice.
Teaching Points
The Importance of Community
Believers are called to live in community, where mutual accountability and support are essential. We are responsible for one another's spiritual well-being.

Restoration over Condemnation
The goal is to restore, not to judge or condemn. Our approach should be marked by love, humility, and a desire for the other's spiritual health.

Awareness of Wandering
We must be vigilant in our own faith and aware of the signs of wandering in others. This requires a deep understanding of the truth and a commitment to living it out.

Active Participation
Every believer has a role in the spiritual health of the community. We should be proactive in reaching out to those who have strayed, offering guidance and support.

The Power of Repentance
Turning back to the truth is a powerful act of repentance that restores fellowship with God and the community. It is a cause for celebration and encouragement.
Bible Study Questions
1. What are some practical ways we can identify when someone is wandering from the truth in our community?

2. How can we ensure that our approach to restoring someone is done in love and not judgment?

3. In what ways can we cultivate a community that encourages accountability and support among believers?

4. How does understanding the original Greek word for "bring him back" deepen our understanding of the restoration process?

5. How can we apply the principles from James 5:19 in our personal lives and in our church community to foster spiritual growth and unity?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Galatians 6:1
This verse also speaks about restoring someone who has fallen into sin, emphasizing gentleness and self-awareness in the process.

Matthew 18:15-17
Jesus outlines a process for addressing a brother who sins, which includes private correction and, if necessary, involving the church community.

1 Peter 4:8
Highlights the importance of love in covering a multitude of sins, which is relevant to the motivation behind restoring a wandering believer.
The Blessing of God on Filial PietyAndrew Lee et al James 5:19
Who Will Rise Up with Me Against the Wicked?John Wesley James 5:19
Abrupt EndingDean Plumptre.James 5:19-20
Be Slow to DespairJames 5:19-20
Caring for the Salvation of OthersT. Manton.James 5:19-20
ConversionC. H. Spurgeon.James 5:19-20
Conversion of OthersC. F. Deems, D. D.James 5:19-20
Conversion of the Erring a Christian DutyWin. Forsyth.James 5:19-20
Converting a SinnerDr. J. P. Thompson.James 5:19-20
Converting a SoulD. Thomas.James 5:19-20
Converting Sinners a Christian DutyC. G. Finney.James 5:19-20
Difficulty of the WorkEdward Smith.James 5:19-20
Heresy: an Exposition and an AppealJ. Parker, D. D.James 5:19-20
How to Do ItG. F. Pentecost, D. D.James 5:19-20
Human Agency in the Sinner's Conversion to GodHugh McGatrie.James 5:19-20
Jewel Gatherers .For the Redeemer's CrownW. M. Punshon, D. D.James 5:19-20
Motives to Christian ZealEssex RemembrancerJames 5:19-20
On Restoring BackslidersA. F. Barfield.James 5:19-20
One Soul Worth a Great EffortJames 5:19-20
Saved AloneJames 5:19-20
Sin HiddenJames 5:19-20
Soul-SavingJames 5:19-20
Successful EndeavourSword and Trowel.James 5:19-20
The Conversion of a SinnerC. Jerdan James 5:19, 20
The Conversion of a SinnerA. R. McEwen, D. D.James 5:19-20
The Conversion of SinnersT. Finch.James 5:19-20
The Conversion of SinnersJ. CaugheyJames 5:19-20
The Erring to be ReclaimedDean Scott.James 5:19-20
The Greatness of Being Instrumental to Another's ConversionH. Melvill, B. D.James 5:19-20
The Joy of Converting a SoulJames 5:19-20
The Lord's Converts and Man'sJames 5:19-20
The Mission of a TractThe Fireside.James 5:19-20
The Preciousness of the SoulJoseph Cummings, D. D.James 5:19-20
The Salvation of a SoulT.F. Lockyear James 5:19, 20
The Wide Blessedness of LoveDean Plumptre.James 5:19-20
Tholuck's Personal Effort for Individual SoulsJames 5:19-20
To Sabbath-School Teachers and Other Soul-WinnersC. H. Spurgeon.James 5:19-20
Wandering from the TruthC. F. Deems, D. D.James 5:19-20
People
Elias, Elijah, James, Job
Places
Dispersion
Topics
TRUE, Brethren, Bring, Brings, Brothers, Convert, Err, Error, Faith, Someone, Strays, Truth, Turn, Turns, Wander, Wanders
Dictionary of Bible Themes
James 5:19

     1462   truth, in NT

James 5:19-20

     5691   friends, good
     5814   confrontation
     5926   rebuke
     6030   sin, avoidance
     6040   sinners
     6115   blame
     6163   faults
     6627   conversion, nature of
     6634   deliverance
     6734   repentance, importance
     6740   returning to God
     8707   apostasy, personal

Library
June the Twenty-Ninth Effectual Prayers
"The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." --JAMES v. 13-20. Or, as Weymouth translates it, "The heartfelt supplication of a righteous man exerts a mighty influence." Prayer may be empty words, with no more power than those empty shells which have been foisted upon the Turks in their war with the Balkan States. Firing empty shells! That is what many professed prayers really are; they have nothing in them, and they accomplish nothing. They are just forged upon the lips, and
John Henry Jowett—My Daily Meditation for the Circling Year

February the Twenty-Third the Process and the End
"Ye have seen the end of the Lord: that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy." --JAMES v. 7-11. And so we are bidden to be patient. "We must wait to the end of the Lord." The Lord's ends are attained through very mysterious means. Sometimes the means are in contrast to the ends. He works toward the harvest through winter's frost and snow. The maker of chaste and delicate porcelain reaches his lovely ends through an awful mortar, where the raw material of bone and clay is pounded into
John Henry Jowett—My Daily Meditation for the Circling Year

Against Rash and Vain Swearing.
"But above all things, my brethren, swear not." St. James v. 12. Among other precepts of good life (directing the practice of virtue and abstinence from sin) St. James doth insert this about swearing, couched in expression denoting his great earnestness, and apt to excite our special attention. Therein he doth not mean universally to interdict the use of oaths, for that in some cases is not only lawful, but very expedient, yea, needful, and required from us as a duty; but that swearing which
Isaac Barrow—Sermons on Evil-Speaking, by Isaac Barrow

"Who Will Rise up with Me against the Wicked?"
Ps. 94:16. 1. In all ages, men who neither feared God nor regarded man have combined together, and formed confederacies, to carry on the works of darkness. And herein they have shown themselves wise in their generation; for by this means they more effectually promoted the kingdom of their father the devil, than otherwise they could I have done. On the other hand, men who did fear God, and desire the happiness of their fellow-creatures, have, in every age, found it needful to join together, in order
John Wesley—Sermons on Several Occasions

The Blessing of God on Filial Piety.
"Therefore thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel, 'Jonadab, the son of Rechab, shall not want a man to stand before me forever.'" Israel were greatly depraved before the days of this prophet, who was sent to reprove and call them to repentance. The prophet faithfully discharged his trust; but labored to very little effect. The chiefs of the nation were offended at its warnings and predictions--rose up against him--shut him up in prison; yea in a dark dungeon, where he sank in the mire;
Andrew Lee et al—Sermons on Various Important Subjects

Conversion
Our text has in it, first of all, a principle involved--that of instrumentality.--"Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; let him know that he who converteth a sinner from the error of his way, shall save a soul from death." Secondly, here is a general fact stated:--"He who converteth a sinner from the error of his way, shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins." And thirdly, there is a particular application of this fact made. "Brethren, if any
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 1: 1855

A visit to the Harvest Field
Our subject, to-night, will involve three or four questions: How does the husbandman wait? What does he wait for? What is has encouragement? What are the benefits of his patient waiting? Our experience is similar to his. We are husbandmen, so we have to toil hard, and we have to wait long: then, the hope that cheers, the fruit that buds and blossoms, and verily, too, the profit of that struggle of faith and fear incident to waiting will all crop up as we proceed. I. First, then, HOW DOES THE HUSBANDMAN
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871

"Be Ye Therefore Sober, and Watch unto Prayer. "
1 Pet. iv. 7.--"Be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer." We now come to consider the coherence and connexion these duties have one to another. First, Prayer is the principal part of the Christian's employment, and sobriety and watchfulness are subordinate to it. "Be sober, and watch unto prayer." (1.) Prayer is such a tender thing that there is necessity of dieting the spirit unto it. That prayer may be in good health, a man must keep a diet and be sober, sobriety conduces so much to its
Hugh Binning—The Works of the Rev. Hugh Binning

Our God of the Impossible
"Behold I am the Lord, . . . is there anything too hard for ME?" (Jer. 32:27.) "Ah, Lord God! there is nothing too wonderful for thee" (Jer. 32:17, margin). THE following illustration of the truth, "What is impossible with man is possible with God," occurred while we were attending the Keswick Convention in England, in 1910. One evening my husband returned from an evening meeting, which I had not attended, and told me of a woman who had come to him in great distress. She had been an earnest
Rosalind Goforth—How I Know God Answers Prayer

Prevailing Prayer.
Text.--The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.--James v. 16. THE last lecture referred principally to the confession of sin. To-night my remarks will be chiefly confined to the subject of intercession, or prayer. There are two kinds of means requisite to promote a revival; one to influence men, the other to influence God. The truth is employed to influence men, and prayer to move God. When I speak of moving God, I do not mean that God's mind is changed by prayer, or that his
Charles Grandison Finney—Lectures on Revivals of Religion

If it is Objected, that the Necessity which Urges us to Pray is not Always...
If it is objected, that the necessity which urges us to pray is not always equal, I admit it, and this distinction is profitably taught us by James: " Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms" (James 5:13). Therefore, common sense itself dictates, that as we are too sluggish, we must be stimulated by God to pray earnestly whenever the occasion requires. This David calls a time when God "may be found" (a seasonable time); because, as he declares in several other
John Calvin—Of Prayer--A Perpetual Exercise of Faith

On the Whole, Since Scripture Places the Principal Part of Worship in the Invocation Of...
On the whole, since Scripture places the principal part of worship in the invocation of God (this being the office of piety which he requires of us in preference to all sacrifices), it is manifest sacrilege to offer prayer to others. Hence it is said in the psalm: "If we have forgotten the name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a strange god, shall not God search this out?" (Ps. 44:20, 21). Again, since it is only in faith that God desires to be invoked, and he distinctly enjoins us to frame
John Calvin—Of Prayer--A Perpetual Exercise of Faith

But Some Seem to be Moved by the Fact...
But some seem to be moved by the fact, that the prayers of saints are often said to have been heard. Why? Because they prayed. "They cried unto thee" (says the Psalmist), "and were delivered: they trusted in thee, and were not confounded" (Ps. 22:5). Let us also pray after their example, that like them we too may be heard. Those men, on the contrary, absurdly argue that none will be heard but those who have been heard already. How much better does James argue, "Elias was a man subject to like passions
John Calvin—Of Prayer--A Perpetual Exercise of Faith

Elijah, the Praying Prophet
"I have known men," says Goodwin--it must have been himself--"who came to God for nothing else but just to come to Him, they so loved Him. They scorned to soil Him and themselves with any other errand than just purely to be alone with Him in His presence. Friendship is best kept up, even among men, by frequent visits; and the more free and defecate those frequent visits are, and the less occasioned by business, or necessity, or custom they are, the more friendly and welcome they are."--Rev. Alexander
Edward M. Bounds—Prayer and Praying Men

Prayer Availeth Much
Prayer Availeth Much PRAYER AVAILETH MUCH ". . . The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." -- James 5:16 by Tony Marshall (T.M.) Anderson Published by The Advocate Publishing House Circleville, Ohio (No copyright or date of publication)
T. M. Anderson—Prayer Availeth Much

Prayer for and with Each Other.
"Confess your faults one to another and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."--James v. 16. Let our last article touch once more the key of love wherein the article preceding that of prayer was set. To speak of the Spirit's work in our prayers, omitting the intercession of the saints, betrays a lack of understanding concerning the Spirit of all grace. Prayer for others is quite different from prayer for ourselves. The latter
Abraham Kuyper—The Work of the Holy Spirit

On the Sacrament of Extreme Unction.
To this rite of anointing the sick our theologians have made two additions well worthy of themselves. One is, that they call it a sacrament; the other, that they make it extreme, so that it cannot be administered except to those who are in extreme peril of life. Perhaps--as they are keen dialecticians--they have so made it in relation to the first unction of baptism, and the two following ones of confirmation and orders. They have this, it is true, to throw in my teeth, that, on the authority of
Martin Luther—First Principles of the Reformation

Ancestry, Birth, Education, Environment: 1513(?)-1546
"November 24, 1572. "John Knox, minister, deceased, who had, as was alleged, the most part of the blame of all the sorrows of Scotland since the slaughter of the late Cardinal." It is thus that the decent burgess who, in 1572, kept The Diurnal of such daily events as he deemed important, cautiously records the death of the great Scottish Reformer. The sorrows, the "cumber" of which Knox was "alleged" to bear the blame, did not end with his death. They persisted in the conspiracies and rebellions
Andrew Lang—John Knox and the Reformation

Knox in Scotland: Lethington: Mary of Guise: 1555-1556
Meanwhile the Reformer returned to Geneva (April 1555), where Calvin was now supreme. From Geneva, "the den of mine own ease, the rest of quiet study," Knox was dragged, "maist contrarious to mine own judgement," by a summons from Mrs. Bowes. He did not like leaving his "den" to rejoin his betrothed; the lover was not so fervent as the evangelist was cautious. Knox had at that time probably little correspondence with Scotland. He knew that there was no refuge for him in England under Mary Tudor,
Andrew Lang—John Knox and the Reformation

Knox in the War of the Congregation: the Regent Attacked: Her Death: Catholicism Abolished, 1559-1560
Though the Regent was now to be deposed and attacked by armed force, Knox tells us that there were dissensions among her enemies. Some held "that the Queen was heavily done to," and that the leaders "sought another end than religion." Consequently, when the Lords with their forces arrived at Edinburgh on October 16, the local brethren showed a want of enthusiasm. The Congregation nevertheless summoned the Regent to depart from Leith, and on October 21 met at the Tolbooth to discuss her formal
Andrew Lang—John Knox and the Reformation

Knox and Queen Mary (Continued), 1561-1564
Had Mary been a mere high-tempered and high-spirited girl, easily harmed in health by insults to herself and her creed, she might now have turned for support to Huntly, Cassilis, Montrose, and the other Earls who were Catholic or "unpersuaded." Her great-grandson, Charles II., when as young as she now was, did make the "Start"--the schoolboy attempt to run away from the Presbyterians to the loyalists of the North. But Mary had more self-control. The artful Randolph found himself as hardly put to
Andrew Lang—John Knox and the Reformation

Whether a Man Can Merit the First Grace for Another
Whether a Man can Merit the First Grace for Another We proceed to the sixth article thus: 1. It seems that a man can merit the first grace for another. For the gloss on Matt. 9:2, "and Jesus, seeing their faith," etc., says: "How much is our own faith worth in the sight of God, if he values the faith of one so highly that he heals another both inwardly and outwardly!" Now it is by the first grace that a man is healed inwardly. One man can therefore merit the first grace for another. 2. Again, the
Aquinas—Nature and Grace

Whether one Can Hope for the Eternal Blessedness of Another
Whether One can Hope for the Eternal Blessedness of Another We proceed to the third article thus: 1. It seems that one can hope for the eternal blessedness of another. For the apostle says in Phil. 1:6: "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform [61] it until the day of Jesus Christ." Now the perfection of that day will be eternal blessedness. One can therefore hope for the eternal blessedness of another. 2. Again, that for which we pray to God,
Aquinas—Nature and Grace

Whether it is Lawful to Swear?
Objection 1: It would seem that it is not lawful to swear. Nothing forbidden in the Divine Law is lawful. Now swearing is forbidden (Mat. 5:34), "But I say to you not to swear at all"; and (James 5:12), "Above all things, my brethren, swear not." Therefore swearing is unlawful. Objection 2: Further, whatever comes from an evil seems to be unlawful, because according to Mat. 7:18, "neither can an evil tree bring forth good fruit." Now swearing comes from an evil, for it is written (Mat. 5:37): "But
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

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