2. Favoritism (James 2:1-4) Discriminate World Values Typical Christian 1 Samuel 16:7 - Man looks at the out- ward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." Ephesians 1:4 - 4 For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight.

3. Favoritism (James 2:5-7) Special Attention to the Poor Matthew 19:21 - Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." Leviticus 19:15 - "'Do not pervert justice; do not show partiality to the poor or favoritism to the great, but judge your neighbor fairly.

4. Effects of Favoritism Avoids God’s Criteria Galatians 5:22-23 - 22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Hypocritical Allows the wrong people into our inner circle.

5. Primary Focus (James 2:8-13) Love (v 8-11) Mercy (v 12-13)

6. Faith Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead (v. 17)v. 17 Faith without deeds is useless (v. 20)v. 20 Faith without deeds is dead (v. 26)v. 26 Paul vs. Faith Rom 3:28 – Justified by faith Gal 5:6 – “faith working through love”

7. Faith Illustrations Abraham (2:20-24) Rahab (2:25-26) Righteous action is born out of true faith.