Calvary Baptist Church

Preached by Pastor Mike Hess Sunday morning 01/10/2010.

Redeeming the Time – The Dangers of Favoritism

James 2:1-13

Introduction:

“Thus says the LORD: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he  understands and knows me. That I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and  righteousness in the earth.  For in these things I  delight, declares the LORD.” Jeremiah 9:23-24

“so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boasts in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:31

“The way we behave toward people indicates what we really believe about God! We cannot – and  dare not – separate human relationships from divine fellowship.” Warren Wiersbe

I. The Contrast (James 2:1)

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich yet for your sake he  became poor, so that you by his poverty might  become rich.” 2 Corinthians 8:9

II. The Setting (James 2:2-4)

The three sinful results of their unfair and partial treatment:

1. They made distinctions (vs. 4)

2. Became judgmental (vs. 4)

3. Had evil thoughts toward the poor (vs. 4)

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for  you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:29

“May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one  another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed  you, for the glory of God.” Romans 15:5-7

III. The Folly of Favoritism (2:5-7)

“The rich and poor have a common bond, the LORD is the make of them all.”    Proverbs 22:2

See people for who they really are – sinners separated from God in desperate need of God’s grace and forgiveness in Jesus Christ.

IV. The Sin of Favoritism (2:8-11)

“love is the fulfilling of the law.” Romans 13:10

V. The Judgment of God (2:12-13)

“And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy  both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:28

Application:

1. Examine your theology closely – if God is who the Bible says He is then why would we show favoritism?

2. Never believe the lie that people can give you what only God can give you.

“for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
2 Timothy 1:7

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