James 2:1-4
Summary for Jas 2:1-4: 2:1-4 a James gives a realistic illustration to enforce his prohibition against favoring the wealthy. 2:1 b dear brothers and sisters (Greek adelphoi): The Greek word used here means members of the same family—in this case, fellow Christians—of either sex. James frequently begins a new section with this affectionate greeting (1:2 c, 16 d; 2:14 e; 3:1 f; 5:7 g, 19 h), soliciting their loyal response.• James contrasts our glorious Lord Jesus Christ with the glory of a well-dressed man (2:2 i). Christ’s glory includes his resurrection, exaltation, and second coming.
2:2 j your meeting (literally your synagogue): This word refers to the gathering of people rather than the building in which they met.
• The fancy clothes and expensive jewelry of the rich, in contrast to the dirty clothes of the poor, symbolize the contrast in socioeconomic status.
Summary for Jas 2:3-4: 2:3-4 k It is natural to give special attention to wealthy people because of their social status, political power, and potential generosity as patrons. By serving and publicly honoring the wealthy, the church could gain whatever economic benefits they wished to give. James warns that this discrimination reflects evil motives, a division between loyalty to God (1:6 l) and a desire for the benefits of worldly wealth (4:4 m).
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