Is God the author of sin? Does God want people to sin?

Chuck Smith drew the line James draws: God tests, but "God doesn't tempt us or solicit us to evil." The text is flat: "God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man" (James 1:13). Read Chuck on James 1:13 in the reader. Chuck Smith commentary used by permission of The Word For Today.

Verified. Every scripture quotation on this page has been checked word-for-word against the King James text. Last reviewed 2026-10-14.