Theory question 108
Faith, Works and ImpartialitySection C (Themes from Selected Epistles)
(a) If you show partiality, you commit sin. Relate how James addressed this subject in the Assembly of the church. (b) State three ways Christians today fall short of James' recommendations on the above subject.
Show the model answer
(a) Show no partiality as you hold the faith of Christ (James 2:1).
If a rich man is given a good seat and a poor man told to stand, you have made distinctions and become judges with evil thoughts (James 2:2-4).
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 and blaspheme Christ (James 2:6-7).
Fulfil the royal law: love your neighbour as yourself (James 2:8).
Partiality is sin; whoever fails in one point is guilty of all (James 2:9-11).
Judgement is without mercy to one who shows no mercy (James 2:12-13).
(b) Any three: reserved seats and titles for the rich; leadership positions given to the wealthy; tribalism; neglect of poor members; special attention to big donors.
Explain James 2:1-13, then three ways.