Theory question 108
Faith, Works and Impartiality(a) What did James teach on partiality? (b) Identify two effects of partiality in society.
Show the model answer
(a) Believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must show no partiality (James 2:1).
If a rich man with gold rings and fine clothing is given a good seat and a poor man in shabby clothes is told to stand or sit at one's feet, they have made distinctions and become judges with evil thoughts (James 2:2-4).
God has chosen the poor of the world 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 into court and blaspheme the honourable name (James 2:6-7).
Fulfil the royal law, "You shall love your neighbour as yourself" (James 2:8).
Showing partiality is sin, and one is convicted by the law as a transgressor (James 2:9).
Whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point is guilty of all (James 2:10-11).
Speak and act as those who are to be judged under the law of liberty; judgement is without mercy to one who shows no mercy (James 2:12-13).
(b) Any two: hatred, bitterness and division; injustice and oppression of the poor; corruption and favouritism in appointments; loss of talent when merit is ignored; conflict, crime and unrest; loss of trust in leaders.
Summarise James 2:1-13, then two effects in society.