“My brethren, do not hold the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with partiality…” James 2:1–6
Our text this morning has a strong rebuke to the Church: don’t mix faith in Christ with favouritism. Whether by wealth, position, education, or influence; whenever we elevate one and belittle another, we violate not just good manners, but the very heart of God.
Every person bears the image of God (Genesis 1:27). When we demean, mock, intimidate, or exclude others, we violate that divine imprint. Such behaviour isn’t merely unkind; it’s a rebellion against God’s design for human dignity and community.
The Bible warns against words and actions that crush the spirit of human: Reckless and careless words can wound deeply, like a sword (Proverbs 12:18), and when we use the same tongue to bless God yet curse people made in His image, we contradict the very heart of our worship. These things ought not to be so (James 3:9–10); for if anyone claims to love God but harbours hatred toward his brother, the scripture calls him a liar (1 John 4:20).
Jesus dined with outcasts (Luke 15:2), defended the shamed (John 8:1-11), and honored the overlooked (Mark 12:41-44). His kingdom advances through humility, not hierarchy (Matthew 20:26-28).
Christ paid for the redemption of people with His blood; how are you treating them? When we mistreat people, we mishandle the price of Christ’s blood.
Abuse, whether emotional, institutional, or spiritual, dishonours God and violates the dignity of those he loves. Every soul is blood-bought. “He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker…” Proverbs 14:31
Every leadership in God’s house is not administrative; it’s relational and pastoral. A priest, a pastor, a parent, a mentor; anyone entrusted with care is expected to carry God’s heart.
“Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.” Proverbs 27:23
To mistreat someone whom Christ died for is to treat lightly the cross itself. When we manipulate, condemn, or emotionally abuse them… When we exploit, ignore, or dismiss their pain… When we judge harshly without mercy or twist the word to control… We are not just hurting people. We are dishonouring the blood that bought them.
“When we sin against others by wounding their weak conscience, we are actually sinning against Christ Himself ” 1 Corinthians 8:12
Take a moment to examine your speech. Are your words building others up or tearing them down? Ephesians 4:31–32 urges us to put away bitterness, slander, and malice, and instead be kind and tender-hearted. Colossians 4:6 reminds us to let our words always be full of grace. So whether it’s sarcasm, gossip, or that quiet air of condescension, we’re called to speak in ways that uplift and give life.
We also need to reject subtle power plays in our relationships. Philippians 2:3 teaches us to do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but to value others above ourselves. Intimidation, control, or emotional manipulation have no place among followers of Christ. True greatness is found in humility.
And then there’s the call to pursue active inclusion. Romans 15:7 tells us to welcome one another, just as Christ has welcomed us. That means noticing the person left out, reaching for the one on the fringe. Isolation wounds; but community has the power to restore.
Prayer:
Lord, forgive me for the times I’ve diminished others through my words, attitudes, or silence. Open my eyes to the sacred worth in every person. Teach me to build up, not tear down; to include, not isolate; to empower, not intimidate. Let my life reflect your unfailing love. Amen.
Author
kay.alli@legalview.co.uk