James 2:1-13: Who's the Judge?
LABELS AREN'T JUST found on soup cans. We put them on people all the time. Funny or dull. Smart or thick-headed. Friendly or cold. There are all kinds of ways we can categorize people. And our categories can have a profound influence on the way we treat people. As you might suspect, James has a few words to say about favoritism.
Warming Up to God
Reflect on judgmental words and thoughts you have had this week. Confess them to God. Allow yourself to experience his mercy.
Read James 2:1-13. »
Discovering the Word
- How would you react if someone came into your church who wore sloppy clothes, was dirty or had body odor (vv. 2-4)?
- Why is it wrong to give preferential treatment to those who have money (vv. 5-7)?
- Verse 5 says God has chosen the poor to be rich in faith. Is God guilty of showing favoritism in this way? Explain.
- How can "the royal law" (v. 8) guide our treatment of both poor and rich?
- In what sense is violating one law as serious as breaking every law (vv. 9-11)?
Applying the Word
- Toward what people or groups do you show favoritism?
- How can you change your attitude and actions?
Responding in Prayer
Ask God to work in your heart and mind to help you see beneath the surface as you relate to people.
For Further Study
Making Judgments Without Being Judgmental by Terry D. Cooper