(a)Give James' exposition on partiality in the church. [9 marks] (b) Highlight three ways impartiality is promoted in our society. [6 marks]

Answer Details

(a) James' exposition on partiality in the church (James 2:1-13)

James warned, "My brethren, show no partiality as you hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory." He illustrated the sin: suppose a man with gold rings and fine clothing comes into the assembly, and also a poor man in shabby clothing. If the church honours the well-dressed 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.

James condemned this favouritism with several arguments:

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

(b) Three ways impartiality is promoted in our society

1. Equality before the law and fair justice: courts and law-enforcement treating all citizens equally regardless of wealth, tribe or status.
2. Equal opportunities in employment, education and social services: selecting people on merit rather than favouritism, bribery or connections.
3. Fair and unbiased leadership and public service: leaders, employers and officials treating rich and poor alike, and respecting the rights and dignity of all people without discrimination.