This Man Walks Into the Church…

Posted by Noemy Clayborn on Aug 18, 2011 in Daily Bread | 3 comments

As Christians, our goal is to imitate Him – to be Christ-like. Our actions are seen by others as a reflection of what Christ teaches. If we show partiality, we leave the impression that Jesus Himself is partial. If we are not careful, our partiality will taint the glory of the Lord.

In James we see a specific example of this behavior – the distinction we make between the rich and the poor. Sadly, the sin of partiality is just as prevalent today as it was in the days of James. Those who donate significant amounts of money are catered to – greeted warmly and treated specially. The poor often don’t feel that same warmth. When we have cliques and divisions it is often because of a superior attitude. We judge people on outward appearance. Too often we look down at people dressed differently from us or those who don’t speak the language we do. Who do we think we are?

The Word is very clear on the issue of partiality:

• Acts 10:34 …“I most certainly understand that God is not one to show partiality”
• Job 34:19 “who shows no partiality to princes and does not favor …”
• Prov 28: 21 “To show partiality is not good…”
• Exodus 23:”3 …and do not show favoritism to a poor man in his lawsuit.”
• Leviticus 19:15 “… never give special favors to poor people, and never show preference to important people…”

Matthew 25:40 says: “… when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!” Most of the time we read this scripture to mean when we do “good things” it as unto the Lord … It works both ways – when you show partiality it is done as unto the Lord! It is time we look at our behavior … and make some necessary changes.