How can we guard against partiality in our church community? The Warning in Proverbs 28:21 “ ‘To show partiality is not good—yet even a man will do wrong for a piece of bread.’ ” • Scripture flatly states that favoritism is “not good.” • The motive can be as small as “a piece of bread”—a reminder that even minor benefits can tempt us to unjust preference. Why Partiality Is Sin • It contradicts God’s character: “For God does not show favoritism.” (Romans 2:11) • It distorts the gospel: at the cross all stand equal (Galatians 3:28). • It violates the royal law of love: “But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors.” (James 2:9) Spotting Partiality in Church Life • Social cliques that exclude newcomers. • Leadership roles filled on the basis of wealth, status, or family ties rather than gifting and character. • Ministry resources channeled to high-profile members while quiet servants are overlooked. • Hospitality extended to the influential but not to the lonely or poor. • Discipline applied strictly to some, leniently to others. Guardrails from Scripture 1. Leviticus 19:15 – “Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the rich.” 2. Deuteronomy 1:17 – “Do not show partiality in judging; hear both small and great alike.” 3. Acts 10:34 – “God does not show favoritism.” 4. James 2:1 – “Show no favoritism as you hold faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory.” Practical Steps to Build an Impartial Community • Heart examination – Regularly ask the Spirit to expose hidden preferences. – Confess and forsake attitudes that favor the “important.” • Teach and model equality – Preach passages like James 2 and Acts 10. – Leaders set the tone by spending time with every stratum of the church. • Transparent processes – Select elders, deacons, and ministry leaders through open, scriptural criteria (1 Timothy 3; Titus 1). – Publish budgets so giving does not buy influence. • Intentional hospitality – Rotate small-group dinners, seating, and service projects to mix ages, races, incomes, and backgrounds. – Pair established families with singles, widows, internationals. • Equitable care – Maintain a benevolence fund overseen by multiple elders/deacons to prevent bias. – Visit shut-ins and hospitals on a schedule, not by popularity. • Accountability and correction – If favoritism surfaces, confront gently but firmly (Galatians 6:1). – Use church discipline consistently, regardless of position. • Celebrate unseen service – Publicly honor nursery workers, custodians, and prayer warriors (1 Corinthians 12:22–24). • Guard the Lord’s Table – Ensure communion is accessible to all genuine believers, echoing 1 Corinthians 11:17–34. Looking to Christ’s Example • He welcomed children (Mark 10:14), lepers (Luke 17:12–19), and outcasts (John 4). • He rebuked status seeking among disciples (Mark 10:42–45). • At His birth, both magi (wealthy) and shepherds (poor) worshiped Him—showing a kingdom for all. Strengthening Our Resolve • Daily immerse in the Word that shapes an impartial heart (Psalm 119:9). • Depend on the Spirit, “distributing to each one individually as He wills.” (1 Corinthians 12:11) • Keep the cross central; when we remember the cost of our own redemption, favoritism withers. |
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