We shall see that the practical atheist, who goes through life unconcerned about God’s will for his life, does not demonstrate living faith and trust in God at all, but instead reveals a prideful presumption.

James illustrates this truth in five statements:

1A.  First, THE PRESUMPTION (4.13)

1B.    Consider this proud talk

2B.    Consider the presumptuous planning

2A.  Second, THE PROBLEM (4.14)

In a word, the practical atheist’s problem is quantity.

1B.    The first effect of his quantity problem is a lack of information

2B.    The second effect of his quantity problem is a limited life span

3A.  Third, WHAT IS PREFERRED (4.15)

1B.    The correction of James

2B.    The conviction of James - “If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.”

4A.  Fourth, THE PRIDE (4.16)

1B.    The behavior of this pride is boasting

2B.    The nature of this pride is evil

5A.  Finally, THE PRINCIPLE (4.17)

1B.    The condition - He knows to do good

2B.    His conduct - He does not do good

3B.    The consequence - This person commits sins of omission