CONNECT: As you seek to humbly accept the word planted in you, choose one of the following areas to focus on: slow to anger; authentic action, or controlled speech. Pray for opportunity and wisdom to grow in this area.

WARM-UP

1. Has there been a time where you have shown favouritism on your frontlines?
2. Can you recall a time when someone has demonstrated favouritism to someone else at your expense? How did it feel?

Read James 2:1-4

1. What is favouritism? What is the very first reason that James gives as to why we shouldnʼt show this?
2. If the situation in v2 were to happen on one of your frontlines, what do you think you would do?
3. What would be the most appropriate response to this situation?
4. Why can our judgements and thoughts about others be ʻevilʼ? How are our judgements different to that of Godʼs?

Read James 2:5-13

1. Who does God choose to inherit the kingdom? Can you think of other examples in the bible where God has chosen the least to be part of his Kingdom?
2. What does it mean to be ʻrich in the faithʼ? What is the hope of this?
3. Instead of honouring these people, who have the churches honoured? Why would they favour the rich people? What could have been their motive? Could we possibly ever do this?
4. Is there such a thing as a ʻsmall sinʼ? Why not? What reasons does James give?
5. What does this tell us about the seriousness of favouritism?
6. What is the ʻlaw that gives freedomʼ and how can we have hope since we all are law-breakers?
7. How should the way that Jesusʼ has treated us shape the way that we treat others?

APPLY: Is there a frontline where you may be more prone to showing favouritism? How can Jesusʼ mercy for you transform how you view this situation?

On Your Frontline This Week: If someone looked at your texts or emails, could they identify patience and compassion for others? Before you hit send this week, pause to consider how your words express love to others.

Listen, Watch, and Read:          

• Listen: “Being Consistent” by Simon Manchester
• Listen: “Family Favourites” by John Stott
• Listen: “Caught in Two Minds 2” by Kevin Murdoch

SERIES Resources:

• Series Overview: Booklet (and Audiobook)
• Commentary: James: The Wisdom of the Brother of Jesus (by John Dickson)
• Course: Introduction to James
• Video: Bible Project Overview of James