(a) How did James deal with the problem of partiality in the church? (b) In what two ways does the church today fall short of the standard which James recom...

Answer Details

(a) How James dealt with the problem of partiality in the church (James 2:1-13)

James warned believers, "My brethren, show no partiality as you hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory." He illustrated the fault: if a man with gold rings and fine clothing enters the assembly, and also a poor man in shabby clothing, and the church pays attention to the rich man, saying, "Have a seat here, please," while telling the poor man, "Stand there," or "Sit at my feet," they have made distinctions among themselves and become judges with evil thoughts.

He corrected them with the following arguments:

• God has chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom; to dishonour the poor is to despise those whom God has honoured.
• It is often the rich who oppress believers, drag them into court, and blaspheme the noble name by which they are called.
• The royal law of Scripture, "You shall love your neighbour as yourself," must be fulfilled; if they show partiality they commit sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors.
• Whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point is guilty of all; therefore favouritism is a serious breach of God's law.
• They should speak and act as those who will be judged under the law of liberty, for judgement is without mercy to one who shows no mercy, yet mercy triumphs over judgement.

(b) Two ways the church today falls short of James' standard

1. Respect of persons based on wealth and status: The church today often gives special seats, titles, recognition and honour to rich and influential members, while the poor are neglected or looked down upon.
2. Neglect of the poor and needy: Instead of caring for the poor, widows and the disadvantaged, many churches concentrate resources and attention on the wealthy, contrary to the impartial love James demanded.