James 2:1

No Favorites...

James warns us against “respect of persons,” which means showing favouritism based on how much money someone has, their social status, or their influence. This kind of bias is strongly discouraged throughout the Bible. Even Jesus’ opponents recognized that He treated everyone fairly and didn’t play favourites (Luke 20:21). Peter also realized from his vision in Acts 10:34 that God doesn't show favouritism. Paul highlighted that everyone stands equally before God, regardless of their background (Romans 2:11).

Favouritism comes from lifting someone’s countenance, an expression meaning favour based on outward status or influence. But that’s not how God works. The Bible clearly states that God judges fairly, whether someone is rich or poor. Leviticus 19:15 tells us to “judge our neighbour with justice,” and Proverbs 22:2 reminds us that God created everyone equally. The Old and New Testaments speak against favouritism based on wealth or social standing.

As believers in Christ, we are encouraged to live without favouritism, showing God's fair and loving nature to all people. We should resist the urge to focus on external factors and instead treat everyone with kindness and fairness.

Are there ways you might show favouritism, even if you don’t realize it? How can you start to embody God’s impartial love in your interactions with others?

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