4: The Sin of Partiality (Jas 2:1-13)
I.
The Basics
A.
Setting
Having stressed
the importance of practicing God’s word, James now cites partiality as a
specific example to illustrate the need to let our actions be consistent with
our belief in God’s word. In conclusion, James reminds us that since we will
all stand before the judgment, our speech and conduct must always conform to
God’s law of love.
B.
Key Verse
“So speak and so
do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty” (2:12).
II.
Observation
A.
Outline
(2:1-4)
(2:5-7)
(2:8-13)
III.
Key Words/Phrases
IV.
General Analysis
Go through the passage and list the reasons why partiality is wrong.
V.
Segment Analysis
A.
2:1-4
1.
1. Why is partiality incompatible with the faith of our Lord Jesus
Christ, the Lord of glory (1)?
2.
2a. What was the setting of James’
illustration?
3.
2b. Can partiality take place in the
congregation of believers today? Cite some examples.
4.
3. In what ways have you been guilty of partiality?
5.
4. Those who show partiality become “judges with evil thoughts”
(4).
6.
4a. How does partiality make people
“judges”?
7.
4b. What “evil thoughts” lie underneath
partiality?
8.
5. When we commit the sin of partiality, what does our partiality
reflect about our values?
B.
2:5-7
9.
6a. What does verse 5 teach us about God’s
salvation?
10.
6b. What does this have to do with the
discussion on partiality?
11.
6c. Having been chosen by God, how have we
become rich in faith?
12.
7. What is James’ point in reminding the believers about the
oppression and blasphemy of the rich?
13.
8. With this passage in mind, compare God’s love and man’s love.
C.
2:8-13
14.
9. Why is partiality a transgression, according to 8 and 9?
15.
10. What is the underlying principle of the whole law?
16.
11. What is the point of 10 and 11 regarding partiality?
17.
12. How does verse 12 serve as a reminder to you in your daily walk?
18.
13. Take note of the word “for” in verse 13. How does the teaching in
this verse help explain verse 12?
