Theory question 108
Faith, Works and ImpartialityHow did James deal with the problem of partiality in the Church? In what two ways does the Church today fall short of the standard which James recommended?
Show the model answer
Believers in the Lord Jesus should show no partiality (James 2:1).
He gave the example of a rich man in fine clothing given a good seat while a poor man in shabby clothes is told to stand or sit at one's feet (James 2:2-3).
Such people have made distinctions and become judges with evil thoughts (James 2:4).
God chose the poor to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom (James 2:5).
Yet they dishonoured the poor, while the rich oppress them, drag them to court and blaspheme Christ's name (James 2:6-7).
Fulfil the royal law, "love your neighbour as yourself" (James 2:8).
Showing partiality is sin; whoever breaks one point of the law is guilty of all (James 2:9-10).
Judgement is without mercy to one who shows no mercy (James 2:12-13).
Shortfalls (any two): front seats and titles reserved for the rich; leadership positions given to the wealthy; discrimination by tribe or class; neglect of poor members; special attention to big donors.
Summarise James 2:1-13, then two shortfalls today.