Perfect law - James 1:25
James introduces the
perfect law of freedom as another way of describing the word of truth in v. 18, and the
royal law in 2:8. For James, God’s law is the word and rule of Israel’s Messiah, Jesus the Lord. Anyone who looks to this law and not only hears it, but also does it,
will be blessed in his actions. For those who have been regenerated by this Word (1:18) and liberated by this King, His law delivers from unjust human traditions and law codes as well as from bondage to human cravings for power. See
WCF 19.2;
WLC 160;
WSC 90.
Tongue - James 1:26
The person who
thinks himself to be religious must also be able to
control his tongue. This is a restatement of v. 19 and a reminder that our speech practices are expressions of doing the word. James also reminds his readers that anyone who does not control his speech
deceives his heart. Indeed, if a person will not repent of wicked speech,
his religion is worthless, that is to say, false. See notes also 3:1-12.
Religion . . . clean and spotless - James 1:27
James concluded his section on action with a final plea concerning true religion. Religion that is
clean and spotless is practiced not only in love for God, but also in love for neighbors. True faith in a good and just God is demonstrated in good and righteous deeds that rectify injustice. James used two examples as hallmarks of this kind of religion. First, giving aid to the
fatherless and widows in their affliction. These two groups are those to whom God draws near (Isa. 1:17, 23). Second, to remain
spotless that is, unstained, by the world’s idolatrous pursuit of wealth and power (4:4; 1 John 2:15-17) will mean living against the grain of our cultures to create a counterculture of God’s kingdom. James understands that to visit and care for those who cannot offer us power or wealth is a sign of the Messiah’s kingdom.
Favoritism and the Wealthy - James 2:1-13
Do Not Play Favorites. Having warned his readers against the uncertainty of riches (1:9-11), James now warns that currying favor with the wealthy, who attend church, often means mistreating or neglecting the poor. This favoritism violates God’s impartiality, and is, thus, ungodly.
Favoritism - James 2:1
James headlines this section with an admonition against
favoritism. Those who
hold to faith in…the Lord of glory, worship one who is impartial (Deut 10:17-20), whose justice cannot be bent by bribes. Thus, his people must treat each other and their neighbors with equal dignity and deference. Wise people and communities are marked by equity.
Gold rings...fine clothes - James 2:2-3
In order to illustrate favoritism, James pictured two people and the way they are treated as they enter the Christian assembly: one rich man with
gold rings and fine clothes and a poor man in dirty clothes. The rich man is afforded a
nice place of honor; whereas, the poor man is given a place of dishonor at one’s
feet, like a slave. Or he is told to
stand out of the way where he can be more easily ignored.
Discriminated among yourselves - James 2:4
No mere illustration, some within James’ audience had been showing preference to the wealthy and neglecting the poor. These church members have traded the wisdom of God for the wisdom of the world. Violating the practices of true religion in 1:27, James describes them as
judges with evil thoughts.
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