How can believers ensure they treat others without favoritism, as Romans 2:11 teaches? The Foundation: Romans 2:11 “For God does not show favoritism.” If the Lord Himself is utterly impartial, His people must mirror that same heart. See Everyone through God’s Eyes • Every person bears His image (Genesis 1:27) • Christ’s blood was shed for “whoever believes” (John 3:16) • In Christ, “You are all one” (Galatians 3:28) Guard Your Heart from Hidden Biases • Ask the Spirit to expose attitudes picked up from culture or upbringing • Confess partiality the moment it appears—James 2:9 warns, “if you show favoritism, you sin” • Remember the cross levels everyone: rich/poor, educated/uneducated, insider/outsider Let Scripture Lead Your Interactions • James 2:1—“do not show favoritism” • Leviticus 19:15—“do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the rich” • Proverbs 24:23—“showing partiality in judgment is not good” • Acts 10:34-35—Peter learned that “God does not show favoritism… but accepts from every nation the one who fears Him” Practical Ways to Walk Impartially • Speak first to the person everyone else overlooks • Make decisions by objective criteria, not social standing • Rotate hospitality lists so every believer shares your table • Listen twice as much as you talk, especially to those unlike you • Celebrate diverse gifts during group discussions or ministry planning • When correcting, use the same standard for friend and stranger • In giving, let need—not flattery—guide generosity Rely on the Spirit’s Power • Impartiality is fruit, not mere effort (Galatians 5:22-23) • Stay in step with Him; He prompts conviction when bias creeps in • Trust that obedience to Romans 2:11 puts the gospel on display before a watching world |