The Subtle Church Killer

James, the first pastor of the first church in Jerusalem, addresses a critical issue that has plagued churches throughout history – the sin of partiality. This subtle church killer can take many forms, but its effects are always destructive to the body of Christ.

What is Partiality and Why is it Dangerous?

Partiality is showing favoritism or preference to certain people over others based on external factors like wealth, appearance, or status. In James’ day, wealthy people in fine clothes were given the best seats while the poor were made to stand or sit on the floor.

This behavior directly contradicts the revolutionary nature of the early church, where everyone was equal regardless of gender, social status, or background. When we show partiality:

• We put ourselves in the position of judge (a role that belongs only to God)
• We alienate people and cause division
• We communicate that the gospel isn’t for everyone
• We undermine the transforming power of Christ

How Does Partiality Manifest in Churches Today?

While we might not explicitly tell the poor to sit on the floor, partiality can still infiltrate our churches through:

• Cliques that become exclusive and unwelcoming
• Judging people based on their appearance or clothing
• Holding people’s past against them
• Treating certain sins as worse than others
• Giving preference to those with wealth or influence

James reminds us that the church should be different from the world. We’re called to a higher standard – one where we welcome everyone with open arms while still holding to biblical truth.

Can the Gospel Really Transform Anyone?

James challenges us to believe in the transforming power of the gospel. Even someone like Jeffrey Dahmer, one of society’s most notorious killers, experienced radical transformation through Christ before his death in prison.

When we show partiality, we’re essentially saying we don’t believe the gospel is powerful enough to transform every person’s life. We’re limiting what God can do.

How Do We Combat Partiality in the Church?

James provides three key principles for overcoming this subtle church killer:

1. Recognize Partiality as Sin

James doesn’t mince words: “If you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors” (James 2:9). When we elevate ourselves above others or treat certain people better than others, we’re contradicting the very law we claim to uphold.

2. Be Rich in Faith

“Has God not 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)

While we often strive to be rich in wealth, fame, or relationships, James reminds us that what truly matters is being rich in faith. The poor often understand this better because they must rely completely on God.

As our world continues to face challenges, being rich in faith becomes increasingly important. When we trust God through difficulties, we begin to recognize our true riches as “heirs of the kingdom.”

3. Let Mercy Triumph Over Judgment

“So speak and so act as those who are to be judged under the law of liberty. For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment.” (James 2:12-13)

As followers of Christ, we live under the “law of liberty” – we’ve received mercy instead of the judgment we deserve. Since we’ve been shown mercy, we must extend that same mercy to others.

This doesn’t mean lowering our standards or compromising truth. Rather, it means welcoming people with open arms, sharing how the gospel has changed us, and then lovingly holding everyone (including ourselves) to the same biblical standard.

Life Application

The message from James is clear: we must be a church where mercy triumphs over judgment, where we’re rich in faith rather than worldly status, and where we welcome everyone without partiality.

This week, consider these questions:

1. In what ways might I be showing partiality in my interactions with others?
2. Am I more focused on external appearances or on the condition of people’s hearts?
3. Do I truly believe in the transforming power of the gospel for everyone, or do I subconsciously think some people are beyond God’s reach?
4. How can I extend mercy to someone who might feel judged or unwelcome?
5. In what areas of my life do I need to grow richer in faith by trusting God more?

Let’s commit to being people who don’t show partiality, who are rich in faith, and who let mercy triumph over judgment. When we do these things, God will do amazing things not only in our lives but in our church and community as well.