F for Favoritism

Entering the second chapter of James (verses 1-13), we find that, whether badly or barely, we are guilty of treating others with bias. However, because God has dealt mercifully with us (v. 13), we are to love our neighbors as ourselves (v.8). Chapter one ended on the idea that pure and faultless religion looks after orphans and widows in distress. To those who wonder, isn't Christianity a relationship instead of a religion, we said that "true religion" is driven by a relationship with the Lord who reveals himself in his word. Favoritism is a case of not practicing "true religion." So this week we will be reminded that 1) Favoritism fails the royal law (vv. 9-11); but 2) Loving as God loves fulfills the law (vv. 5 & 13). To the idea that "all religions are the same" we point to this royal law and the one, true, King who is behind it. So failing the law does matter. To the suggestion by some that they are "spiritual — not religious" we ask if being spiritual grants them any insight into the fathomless mercy found in Christ, despite how frequently they have failed. Come and hear the good news of love and mercy available to all in Jesus.