With James 2:1-13 we come to the sixth paragraph of this epistle. This paragraph is the first of two lengthy paragraphs in James 2, encompassing the entire first half of the chapter. In providing pastoral counsel for a spiritually mature walk in the believer’s life, this paragraph directly confronts those who are showing sinful partiality against the poor and needy in favor of the rich and prestigious. This contextual setting for the paragraph is immediately introduced in verse 1, wherein the caution is given, “My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.” Again in verse 4 the confrontation is presented, “Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?” Yet again in the opening line of verse 6, the further confrontation is proclaimed, “But ye have despised the poor.” Finally, in verse 9 the condemnation is delivered, “But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.” Thus with these four declarations, this paragraph is unified concerning the sinful practice of showing partiality against the poor and needy.
In a broad manner, this paragraph can be divided into four parts. First, verse 1 presents the prohibition against showing partiality. Second, verses 2-4 present the problem with showing partiality. Third, verses 5-7 present the presumption of showing partiality. Fourth, verses 8-13 present the principle to prevent showing partiality. |
