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James 2:1-4

Sermon Notes

No Favorites

Practical Christianity – No Favorites

James 2:1–4 | Sunday, April 28, 2025
Centennial Baptist Church – Pastor Bryce Kristofferson

“My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?” – James 2:1

The Message

In this message from James 2, we are reminded that our faith in Jesus must impact how we treat others. Favoritism—whether based on wealth, race, power, or appearance—is incompatible with the Gospel of Christ.

James uses a practical example: two people walk into a church—one rich, one poor. If we show honor to one and disregard the other, we have allowed our judgments to be guided by evil motives (v.4). That kind of heart, James says, is a sign we’ve lost focus on Christ.

Three Theological Truths James Reveals About Jesus:

  1. Jesus is Glorious
    He is not just a great teacher—He radiates the divine majesty of God Himself. His glory was witnessed on the Mount of Transfiguration and is praised throughout Scripture.

  2. Jesus is Lord
    To say "Jesus is Lord" is to acknowledge His absolute authority over our lives. It means we don’t just follow Him when it's easy—we submit to His Word, even when it's hard.

  3. Jesus is the Messiah
    The long-awaited Christ, prophesied and promised, who came to save us from sin. This truth demands a response of repentance, worship, and faithful obedience.

What This Means for Us as Believers

Showing favoritism has no place in the Church. Whether it’s due to:

  • Race

  • Wealth

  • Social status

  • Political influence

  • Or appearance

...James is clear: it is sin, and it misrepresents the Gospel.

God does not play favorites—neither should we. Every person who walks into our church should be welcomed as someone created in the image of God and loved by Christ.

Reflect & Respond:

  • Do I treat everyone equally in church, or do I gravitate toward those who are "easier" to talk to?

  • Do I believe Jesus is glorious, Lord, and Messiah—and does my life reflect that belief?

  • Am I quick to welcome strangers and extend genuine hospitality?

Prayer

Lord, thank You that You do not show favoritism. Help me to see others the way You do—with love, compassion, and truth. Forgive me for the times I’ve made assumptions or passed judgment. Grow my heart to reflect Your heart. Amen.