Social Distinction

How do we experience social restoration?

 PHASE 1: Social DISTINCTION

 

My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism.  James 2:1

 

            Command: Stop playing FAVORITES.

           

            [Favoritism – “to make unjust distinctions between people by treating one person better than another”]

           

 

What does favoritism / partiality look like?

 

• Treating certain people as more VALUABLE than other people.

 

• Looking down on those with whom you DISAGREE.

 

• Overlooking those who make you UNCOMFORTABLE.

  

Why is this such a big deal?

 

    Reason #1: It is an affront to the HEART of GOD. [James 2:5-7]

 

    Reason #2:  The law of LOVE demands CONSISTENCY. [James 2:8-11]

 

   Reason #3: You are not the JUDGE & JURY, God is. [James 2:12-13]

 

Social restoration begins when followers of Jesus  embrace there are no social distinctions.

 

“God, help me to see others not as my enemies or as ungodly but rather as thirsty people. And give me the courage and compassion to offer your Living Water, which alone quenches deep thirst.” - Henri Nouwen

 

"Our confused society badly needs a community of contrast, a counterculture of ordinary pilgrims who insist on living a different way." - Philip Yancey