James 2: 1-13

In the news…

JK Rowling earns £5 every second (£170 m a year)

We love hearing about the rich… fantasy? Idol? Hero? Respect?

And money talks… in the club, got the car, the house, the holiday… sorted!

Why do we never hear about the poor man?

God cares about the poor… and so should we!!

v.1 Don’t show favouritism… because you’re followers of Jesus

James’ example v.2-4 Give the rich man a seat

Discriminated among yourselves – the poor man is part of the body too!!

A special chair for the Bishop!!

Who do we make time for: the business man or the homeless…

…doctor or Mill view patient…

v.5 Don’t show favouritism… because God doesn’t

God’s economy… an upside down worldview!

v.6-7 Don’t show favouritism… because it makes no sense

Context – it’s the rich who are; exploiting you, taking you to court, slandering Jesus

Intellectuals??

v.8-11 Don’t show favouritism… because God commands us not to

It’s sin… if we do it, we’re law breakers!!

v.12-13 MERCY TRIUMPHS OVER JUDGEMENT!

THIS IS SERIOUS… Judgement without mercy… Unforgiving Servant

Show mercy, as you have received mercy!

Next section… Faith and Deeds – our mercy demonstrates the mercy we have received

Mercy is better than judgement!!!

Jesus – God’s mercy triumphs over his judgement