Theory question 109
Faith, Works and Impartiality(a) Recount the teachings of James in which he remarked that for whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become guilty of all of it. (b) In what three ways is discrimination detrimental to the growth of any society?
Show the model answer
(a) Show no partiality as you hold the faith of Christ (James 2:1).
Do not give the rich man a good seat while the poor man stands (James 2:2-4).
God chose the poor to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom (James 2:5).
The rich oppress them and blaspheme Christ's name (James 2:6-7).
Fulfil the royal law: love your neighbour as yourself (James 2:8).
Partiality is sin and makes one a transgressor (James 2:9).
Whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point is guilty of all, for the same God forbade adultery and murder (James 2:10-11).
Speak and act as those judged under the law of liberty; judgement is without mercy to the merciless (James 2:12-13).
(b) Any three: division and conflict; injustice and resentment; waste of talent; poverty of the excluded; corruption and favouritism; loss of trust in leaders.
Explain James 2:1-13, then three ways.