James Part 4: Judging Based on Appearances
James 2:1-13
As we delve deeper into the Book of James, we note that James presents some unique ideas. Opening up the Book of James, we recognize that while Paul authored most of the New Testament, this particular book was written by James, the half-brother of Jesus. At times, James seems to contradict what we read in most of Paul's writings or in the New Testament regarding the grace of God because James emphasizes actions, law, and consequences. From our perspective, this might appear contrary to the gospel as we understand it.
Our goal is to introduce you to the Book of James in a new way, perhaps akin to how we approach the book of Proverbs. Proverbs is considered wisdom literature, and the book of James represents New Testament-style wisdom literature. James aims to shift our perspective, illustrating how different paths lead to different outcomes. It's crucial that we understand what he is saying and what he is not.
As mentioned earlier by David in week one, Martin Luther, a key figure in the Reformation, once wanted the Book of James removed from the Bible due to its emphasis on works, which he struggled to reconcile with the grace of God. Despite its difficulty, James’s message is integral, and if we take the time to understand it, we will see how it aligns seamlessly with the rest of Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation.
Today, James addresses the issue of partiality—judging based on appearance. The more I studied this passage, the more I realized that while this issue may seem to fit any culture and era, it is particularly appropriate for us. We all struggle with judgment, and if we think we don't, I invite us to open our hearts and receive the message of the Word of God.
The Greek word translated as partiality or favoritism refers to making judgments based on a person's status, appearance, or other external factors. To restate: making judgments based on a person's status, appearance, or other external factors. James would likely summarize this section by stating that having faith in Jesus and showing favoritism are incompatible. If we have faith in Jesus, showing favoritism—judging based on external factors—is not compatible with that faith.
The Book of James consistently contrasts actions that align with receiving God's grace with those that do not. If we are walking in line with God's grace, we will bear fruit in our lives. Conversely, if we are not, we should pause and reflect. This invitation is present on every page of the Book of James.
We live in a world dominated by partiality and favoritism. Our culture thrives on judging one another. As we examine this passage, I hope that the partiality within each of us will be exposed so we can confront and overcome it. James wants us to recognize and eliminate this tendency from our lives.
Discrimination and favoritism are two sides of the same coin. Favoritism involves giving undue favor based on outward appearance, while discrimination involves judging and marginalizing people based on the same criteria. Social media, for instance, thrives on favoritism and discrimination—judging with what James calls evil hearts.
We'll explore this further, but for now, it's crucial to recognize that these behaviors do not belong in the body of Christ. Whether in a church gathering or any other interaction, partiality is incompatible with the grace we profess to believe in. When it occurs, it must be addressed, as James is bluntly trying to do.
A pastor once said that in the kingdom of God, no one should walk with a swagger or a limp. We should all recognize our shared brokenness and feebleness, regardless of our external status. If we approach each other with this reality in mind and the understanding that Jesus loves us and has freed us from condemnation and shame, we can avoid partiality.
However, we often fail in this regard. James uses the church gathering as an example, but this issue is present in our hearts—where we differentiate between the haves and the have-nots.
As I worshiped, I noticed a hole in the armpit of my t-shirt, which reminded me that I am a have-not. This pervasive idea of favoritism doesn't announce itself boldly; it whispers in our hearts, telling us that some people are better than others. James wants to expose this tendency so we can all acknowledge and confront it.
Scripture repeatedly tells us that God looks at the heart and does not show partiality. Verses such as Deuteronomy 10:17, 2 Chronicles 19:7, Acts 10:34, Romans 2:11, Galatians 2:6, Ephesians 6:9, and 1 Peter 1:17 affirm that God does not show partiality, and neither should we. Yet, we do.
We are all guilty of judging others based on their appearance, status, or perceived value. But when we do this, we fail to live out our faith. James emphasizes that our faith should be reflected in our treatment of others, regardless of who they are or what they look like. By favoring some over others, we fall short of the love and grace Jesus has shown us.
James challenges us to rise above our prejudices and see people as God sees them, loving them as He loves them. As we continue through the Book of James, we should ask ourselves if we are showing favoritism and how we can change that. We need to view others through the lens of God's grace and love.
Let's take a moment to reflect and ask God to help us identify and overcome favoritism in our lives. May He grant us the grace to love others as He loves us, without partiality and with a heart full of grace.