Two guys walk into a church.  One is rich, the other poor.  The first one is treated as deity.  The second as a non-entity.   One wears fine clothing and a large, impressive gold ring.  The other wears shabby clothing, whose only “ring” is likely a filthy ring around the collar.

As they enter one is directed toward the place of honor, front and center (never mind that in today’s church the last pew or row of chairs is the most highly coveted!), the other is told to stand on the outside walls, or to “sit down at my feet.”

The Bible relates this encounter in James 2:1-13.  James was the brother of Jesus, or half brother to be more accurate.  It must have been a humbling reality to grow up in the same household as the Person who created the universe by the word of His mouth! (Col. 1:16).  I trust there was indeed partiality in this home toward this human being named Jesus.  For anything less would be unthinkable!

Nevertheless, for the rest of us living in the normal days of life we are not to treat the wealthy or educated or powerful person with more respect than the poor, uneducated, powerless person.  The fact that we all do in fact show partiality is because of sin.

Here are seven suggestions to get us moving toward impartiality.  If your life has been transformed by the Gospel of Jesus Christ then this is for you…for this transformation only begins at your conversion.  If not then stop reading and click here, for without Christ in you, you cannot help but be hopelessly partial.

1.      Recognize that the faith you have and hold is a priceless possession and what you do with this precious faith is very important (James 2:1).

2.      Recognize that the way you treat others speaks volumes as to what you really believe about the Lord Jesus Christ.

3.      Recognize that you are not impartial…that you do make distinctions and judgments… if not with your mouth, certainly in your mind.  We must admit before God that we are in fact far too easily impressed with outward shows of intelligence, clothing, material possessions, success, etc.

4.      Recognize the importance of honoring others above ourselves and actively looking for ways to do this.  “Outdo one another in honor” (Rom. 12:10).  

5.      Recognize that a posture of humility and gentleness is of great value in the sight of God.  Matthew 5:5 says, “Blessed are the meek (humble, gentle) for they shall inherit the earth.” 

6.      Recognize your own manifold limitations in making right judgments of anyone, understanding that you do not know their story...even if you think you do because of someone else’s telling you.  Do not judge a person by his/her past.  Jesus didn’t. 

 7.      Recognize that we are not seeing people clearly until we see them through the eyes of Jesus.

Seeking to sever the sin of partiality in my own life,

Pastor Mike Evans