Charles Ellicott Commentary James 1:16

"Be not deceived, my beloved brethren." — James 1:16 (ASV)

Do not err, my beloved brethren. Until now, James the Wise has declared what God is not and what qualities are alien to Him. This, however, is only a negative aspect of the truth. He now wishes to show the positive: namely, that God is the Author of all and every good.

He introduces this lesson with a caution to his brethren beloved, not to err. He is most earnest and emphatic. Be not ye deceived, however much the world may wander in delusive paths. A marked change from the dreadful tenor of the last verse is made here to bright reflections on the gifts of God, and a new incentive to endurance is found in the happy thoughts of His goodness.