James 2:1-13
1. James deals with partiality & favoritism in this section.
Q: Partiality is showing favor towards a person based on what’s external for self-serving purposes. What are some external factors that you’ve seen lead people to show favoritism?
Q: We heard on Sunday that by showing favoritism towards one, you are showing condemnation toward another. How does considering the condemning side of favoritism shape how you view this sin?
2. In v. 1-7, James focuses on a specific example of partiality.
Q: In v. 1, there is a call to show no partiality…and this call is connected to Christ. How does Christ set the example for us being impartial? How does being impartial make you distinct in the world?
Q: James then gives the example of how a rich person is treated in a worship service. The rich person is treated with an honor & respect that a poor person does not receive. What are ways that the same thing could happen at MBC?
Q: In v. 4, James uses the word, “evil” while talking about the sin of partiality. This word meant to have vicious intentions that produce disastrous results. Why do we often fail to see favoritism as being this serious?
Q: In v. 5-7, James speaks on the reality of wealth and worth. It was said on Sunday, “True worth isn’t found in wealth.” How does v. 5 in particular speak to the issue of what really matters?
3. In v. 8-13, James talks about the law & mercy.
Q: In v. 8, James says that the one who fulfills the law…who is obedient…is doing well. What do you consider to be a life that is doing well? How does whatever a person believes leads to a well-lived life influence decisions & priorities in life?
Q: In v. 9-11, partiality is called a sin & then compared to murder & adultery. What happens when a person believes partiality is this damaging & toxic?
Q: James encourages the reader to show mercy & grace rather than favoritism. How does the truth of the gospel give Christians the ability to actually show mercy & grace?