Genuine Faith Does not Discriminate

Genuine Faith Does Not Discriminate

James 2:1

The Greek word prosopolempsia literally means acceptor of a face, or a respecter of persons.

Galatians 3:26-28 “for as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.  There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”  

God is not a _________________________________.  We should not be either.

What is __________________________in society is _________________ ____________________________ in God’s eyes.

James 2:2-10

When it comes to how you treat others, ______________________________.

James 2:12-13

Galatians 5:13 “For you were called to freedom, brothers, only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh [sinful behavior], but through love, serve one another.”

Genuine faith does not discriminate, but _____________________________.

Genuine faith does not discriminate, but ______________________________.

Genuine faith does not discriminate, but ______________________________.

 

Connection Group Questions

Read James 2:-13 again.

James 2:1   From this week’s message:  What do you think is the difference between discrimination as society defines it, versus the kind of favoritism James alludes to?  How does the phrase “as you hold the faith” qualify the concept of partiality, favoritism or discrimination?

Identify some of the certain actions that society approves of which are contrary to God’s word.  Which ones are the most difficult for you to stay true to, and why?

James 2:2-7  James uses the example of favoritism between rich and poor people, but favoritism can be seen in other areas, too.  Is there anyone to whom you show favoritism or discrimination towards?  Why have you singled out that person for your favor? How does showing favoritism toward them damage your ability to love them as you should?

Describe a time you were treated with positive favoritism. How did it feel?   

Describe a time you were treated with negative discrimination. How did it feel?     

Why is it so important for believers not to discriminate among those who enter the doors of our churches?

James 2:10-11  What do these verses tell us about being a lawbreaker? Does it seem fair to you? Why or why not?

Look up Romans 13:8-10. How do Paul’s words reinforce the principles in 2:9-11?

How should the idea that we will be “judged under the Law of liberty” impact our words and actions? List some specific examples for each of these areas: home, work, church, community.

Is there a person in your life to whom you need to extend mercy instead of judgment? What is holding you back from doing so?

James covers a lot of territory in these verses, but if you were to glance back though 2:1-13, how would you summarize in one sentence (in your own words)? 

3 ways we should not  show partiality or discriminate were mentioned in the message.  Keeping these in mind, what is one step can you take this week to better live in light of this truth?