4 Have you not made distinctions among yourselves, and become judges with evil motives? 5 Listen, my beloved brethren: did not God choose the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him? 6 But you have dishonored the poor man. Is it not the rich who oppress you and personally drag you into court? 7 Do they not blaspheme the fair name by which you have been called?
James 2:4-7
Discrimination against the poor is in view in James 2:4-7. Two main condemnations are expressed by the Apostle as he teaches us to avoid distinctions and treat all with justice.
First, discriminating against the less fortunate reveals evil motives. Judging others based on their poverty results in a heart that is motivated not by the truths of God. Rather, a heart of greed and avarice is put on full display when Christians dishonor the poor.
Also, Christians blaspheme (to make little of) the name of Christ when they favor the rich over the poor. Jesus came to this planet for the disadvantaged whether they were poor in spirit or few in possessions. Even Christ had no place to lay His head. (Luke 9:58) The Believer brings judgement upon themselves if they act in favoritism.
It is far better to treat all with kindness and dignity. Such actions honor the Scriptures and give an example of Christ’s love to others.
Tony French
mrtonyfrench 