James 2:1-13

God’s church must embody Jesus’ glorious character.

1. What kind of community should we be?
2. Why should we be this kind of community?
3. How can we become it?

“My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory.” James 2:1

“For if a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in, and if you pay attention to the one who wears the fine clothing and say, “You sit here in a good place,” while you say to the poor man, “You stand over there,” or, “Sit down at my feet,” have you not then made distinctions among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?” James 2:2-4

1. What kind of community should we be?
   Answer: A community that does not show favoritism

“Listen, my beloved brothers, has not God chosen those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom, which he has promised to those who love him?” James 2:5

“For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who is not partial and takes no bribe….” Deuteronomy 10:17

“For God shows no partiality.” Romans 2:11

“Are they not the ones who blaspheme the honorable name by which you were called?” James 2:7

2. Why should we be this kind of community?
   Answer: So God’s love shines to everyone.

“So speak and so act (embody) as those who are to be judged under the law of liberty.” James 1:12

3. How can we become this kind of community?
   Answer: Embody God’s heart amongst us.

God’s church must embody Jesus’ glorious character which does not show favoritism.