Favouritism
Favoritism in the Bible refers to the practice of showing preferential treatment to certain individuals or groups based on arbitrary distinctions, such as wealth, status, ethnicity, or relationships, rather than on merit or character. This concept is particularly addressed in the context of God's impartiality and justice. For instance, James 2:1-4 admonishes believers against favoritism by emphasizing that showing partiality, especially in the context of wealth, is inconsistent with faith in Jesus Christ, who treats all people equally.Moreover, the Hebrew Scriptures also illustrate the dangers of favoritism through the narratives of figures like Jacob, who favored Joseph over his other sons, leading to familial strife and jealousy (Genesis 37:3). In contrast, God's nature is depicted as one that does not show favoritism; Deuteronomy 10:17 states that God shows no partiality and takes no bribe, highlighting the expectation that His people should emulate this impartiality in their own dealings with others. Thus, favoritism is viewed negatively in the biblical context, emphasizing the need for fairness and equity in human relationships.
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Favouritism - Part 2
By Alistair Begg1.6K39:57LEV 19:11LEV 19:14JAS 1:1JAS 2:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on James chapter 2 and the instruction to believers not to show favoritism. He begins by emphasizing the importance of understanding the description of the readers as believers in the glorious Lord Jesus Christ. The preacher then highlights the clear and concise instruction given by James, which is to not show favoritism. He explains that James provides a practical illustration of this instruction by discussing the treatment of strangers in the church. The preacher concludes by emphasizing that James' instruction is rooted in the example and pattern of Jesus, and that our attitude and actions should reflect this.
Favouritism - Part 1
By Alistair Begg1.8K39:39EXO 33:15MAT 6:33JAS 1:26JAS 2:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the danger of showing favoritism based on outward appearances. He warns believers against treating people differently based on their external characteristics. The preacher uses the example of someone arriving at a gathering to illustrate the point. He urges believers to avoid favoritism and treat all people equally. The sermon emphasizes the importance of following God's word and living in a way that reflects His mercy and judgment.
Favouritism - Part 3
By Alistair Begg1.4K37:59EXO 20:13DEU 4:15HEB 10:16JAS 2:8In this sermon, the speaker discusses the significance and seriousness of breaking God's law. The law of God is seen as an expression of his character and nature, and it reveals to us who God is. The speaker references Deuteronomy 4, where God reveals himself to the people and emphasizes the importance of obedience and the forbidding of idolatry. The sermon also highlights the importance of loving our neighbors as ourselves, which is summarized in the second table of the Ten Commandments. The law is not meant to be a ladder for salvation, but rather a mirror that shows our need for a Savior and a map for ordering our lives. The sermon concludes with a prayer for the Holy Spirit to illuminate the Scriptures and for the listeners to love and serve Jesus.