James 2:1–4

Context

The Epistle of James identifies itself at the outset (James 1:1) as a letter addressed "to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad." Church tradition has regarded the author as James, the brother of Jesus, although scholars hold other views as well.

At the close of the preceding chapter, the author describes caring for orphans and widows as pure religion (James 1:27). This section applies that principle to a concrete scene within the assembly. It imagines a man wearing a gold ring and fine clothing being offered a good seat while a poor man is told to stand or to sit under the footstool, and then poses a question to the reader. The following verses, 2:5–13, declare partiality to be sin on the grounds that God has chosen the poor and on the basis of the "royal law" of love for one's neighbor. The letter then moves on to the discussion of faith and works in 2:14–26.

The Greek word rendered "respect of persons" in verse 1 (other translations have "show partiality") derives from an expression meaning "to receive the face." It denotes favoritism that treats people differently according to outward appearance or status. The word translated "assembly" in verse 2 (Greek synagōgē, "synagogue") refers here to the gathering of believers or to their meeting place.

Interpretation

• Ethical reading: The passage is read as a rebuke of the attitude that favors the wealthy and slights the poor in the assembly or in worship. Many commentaries and sermons follow this reading.
• Theological reading: This reading observes that verse 1 ties the prohibition of partiality to faith in Jesus Christ, "the Lord of glory." Because human splendor loses its significance before the glory of Christ, partiality is seen as incompatible with this faith. Some also find a basis for the command in the character of God, who does not regard persons (Deuteronomy 10:17).
• Judicial-assembly reading: Some scholars understand the gathering in verse 2 not as a worship service but as a court session for settling disputes within the community. They regard the word "judges" in verse 4 as consistent with this view. On this reading, the passage targets the injustice of ruling in favor of the rich in the community's internal proceedings.

Questions of Application

There is no significant controversy among denominations over the meaning of the passage.

In translation, the original text does not make clear which word "of glory" in verse 1 modifies, and versions render the phrase in different ways. Some also hold that "faith in Jesus Christ" may be read as "the faith (faithfulness) of Jesus Christ."

In practice, the question arises whether the scope of partiality should be limited to wealth and poverty or extended to church office, education, nationality, disability, and similar factors. In Korean churches, this passage has at times been invoked to criticize practices such as assigning seats according to church office or printing the names of those who have given offerings in the church bulletin.

Related Passages

• James 2:5–9
• Leviticus 19:15
• Deuteronomy 10:17
• 1 Corinthians 11:20–26
• Galatians 3:26–29