As we jump into the second chapter of this little power-house of a book, we see James address a super practical outworking of authentic faith. He’s already addressed how followers of Jesus ought to walk through trials, bridle our tongues and care for the marginalized. He now shifts to the subject of favoritism. James unapologetically proclaims that faith and favoritism are incompatible. He then points to God’s own character for the reason why God’s people should be impartial with others. The truth of the matter is that we all tend to drift toward favoritism, partiality and prejudice. We tend to want to impress those we think can benefit us materially or socially. And yet, the gospel of Jesus breaks down the very racial, social, and economic walls that the world naturally erects. James finishes this section by reminding us of coming judgment, and the fact that we ought to give mercy to the measure that we have received mercy from Jesus. The gospel screams “mercy triumphs over judgment!” Let our lives reflect that reality!

Related Topics: grace versus works, Living The Christian Life, Understanding the Gospel | More Messages from Chris Dillon | Download Audio

From Series: "James"