Introduction:
Deuteronomy 10:17 - For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God, who is not partial and takes no bribe.
Acts 10:34-35 - So Peter opened his mouth and said: "Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him."
How to Love People Like God Loves People (James 2:1-13)
- Don't Deny your faith: Christ followers are not Partial. (Jas 2:1-4)
- Don't Disregard reality: rich /= Great, and poor /= Bad. (Jas 2:5-7)
Psalm 68:10 - ...in your goodness, O God, you provided for the needy.
Psalm 41:1 - Blessed is the one who considers the poor!
Proverbs 17:5 - Whoever mocks the poor insults his Maker...
- Don't Disobey God's Word: Partiality is a serious Sin. (Jas 1:22-27)
Matthew 5:7 - Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANK
Hint: Highlight blanks above for answers!
Small Group Discussion
Read James 2:1-13
What was your big take-away from this passage / message?
What are ways that you tend to label people that you need to refrain from?
Why is partiality such a serious sin? How did James show us that it is (see James 2:9-11)?
Is James condemning all rich people (James 2:6-7)? Why or why not?
If we are saved by grace, and works do not save anyone, why are works the basis for judgment (James 2:12)? See also Revelation 22:12.
Breakout
Pray for one another, and HBC, to never show partiality.